Ukraine and France discuss future directions for cooperation in healthcare
The Ministry of Health of Ukraine hosted a discussion of new areas of cooperation with France in the field of medical care and the restoration of the healthcare system. The working meeting brought together Deputy Minister of Health and Chief State Sanitary Doctor Ihor Kuzin, a representative of the French Embassy in Ukraine - Deputy Head of the Economic Mission at the Embassy of France Camille Chabé, as well as representatives of French businesses, including CEO at French Healthcare Julien Delpech.
During the meeting, the parties discussed the priority needs of the Ukrainian healthcare system within the framework of the second phase of grant funding from Fonds Ukraine. The priority areas of activity remain the restoration and modernization of medical infrastructure and the provision of specialized equipment. Among new areas, the parties discussed joint training for specialists and the potential development of cooperation in addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
“France remains an important strategic partner for the Ministry and the healthcare sector. We are grateful to the French Government for supporting a number of important initiatives, as well as for its willingness to continue investing in the development and restoration of medical infrastructure and the expansion of rehabilitation services,” noted Ihor Kuzin.
During the meeting, the French side also presented new projects that involve the creation of a new rehabilitation center, as well as in the areas of mental health and post-hospital care for patients with limited mobility. The participants paid particular attention to expanding the network of micro-clinics for people with limb amputations.
Background information
Within the framework of the Ukrainian-French partnership in healthcare, a number of large-scale projects are already being implemented, including seven agreements totaling over EUR 51 million, which are being implemented under an intergovernmental grant agreement between the governments of Ukraine and France as the first phase of funding.
In addition, preparatory work is underway under loan agreements for the supply of high-tech medical equipment to modernize breast cancer diagnosis and treatment in Ukrainian hospitals. Specifically, this involves 25 Senographe Pristina mammography systems by GE Healthcare, with a total value of over EUR 11.6 million. Plans also include the construction of a modular hospital in Nizhyn based on the Nizhyn Central City Hospital, with Ellipse Projects SAS serving as the contractor and total funding of EUR 35 million.