Mehad is actively involved in a new project in Ukraine to alleviate the devastating effects of the ongoing conflict, which has left many people with serious after-effects, ranging from minor trauma to amputations. Psychological disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression have also increased among the affected population. Drawing on its previous experience in Ukraine through its training programme (conducted with the support of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs), Mehad is adapting its current intervention to the local needs identified.
In the face of these challenges, the Ukrainian healthcare system, although resilient, faces major difficulties, particularly in the care of war-wounded patients. There is a critical shortage of physiotherapists, with only 0.68 physiotherapists per 10,000 inhabitants in Ukraine, compared with 24/10,000 in Germany, for example.
Coordination transition : Mehad takes over the MSF project
To meet these needs, Mehad has taken charge of a rehabilitation project in the Vinnytsia and Kiev regions of Ukraine, succeeding the initiative initially coordinated by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). The transition took place at the beginning of December.
The project adopts an interdisciplinary approach, involving physiotherapists, psychologists and social workers. A dedicated team comprising a project coordinator, an administrator, a logistician, a physiotherapy manager, physiotherapy supervisors, psychologists and social workers is responsible for the day-to-day management of activities.
Two health establishments are involved in the project, with a capacity to care for 55 patients a day.
Project objectives and approach : physical and psychologicalreconstruction
The key objectives of the project include the physical recovery of the injured, improving their quality of life, psychological support in the face of trauma, and social support to boost self-esteem. In a context where the Ukrainian healthcare system is facing long-term needs, Mehad is providing its expertise in caring for injured patients and contributing to their full recovery.
This rehabilitation project represents a concrete step towards the physical and psychological reconstruction of individuals affected by the conflict in Ukraine.
