On February 5, the U.S.–Ukraine HealthCare Forum, organized by the Christian Medical Association of Ukraine, was held in Washington, D.C. This event was part of Ukrainian Week and provided a platform for dialogue among Ukrainian and American medical professionals, representatives of civil society, and church communities.
As reported by the organizers to RISU, participants at the forum discussed the key challenges currently facing Ukraine's healthcare system in the context of the ongoing war. They also examined how international partnerships can serve as a significant source of stability and development.
"Through cooperation with American specialists, Ukrainian doctors are changing their approaches to patient care and treatment for the wounded. This directly enables us to save more lives today," emphasized Vasyl Strilka, Director of the Department of High-Tech Medical Care and Innovation at the Ministry of Health of Ukraine.
American partners highlighted that cooperation with Ukraine is mutually beneficial. Mark Mims, Assistant Professor of Facial Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery at the University of Oklahoma, noted that Ukrainian doctors are already leading experts in traumatology, and that a genuine partnership enriches both nations.
"We are not only teaching Ukrainian doctors; we are also learning from them. Ukrainian surgeons excel in trauma care, and this true partnership benefits both countries," he emphasized.
During the forum, significant attention was given to the value of cooperation. Participants emphasized that a shared faith and ethical foundation enhance international medical initiatives and foster trust among partners.
Ukraine's unique practical experience, acquired during the challenging conditions of war, was also highlighted. According to Dr. Yakov Gradinar, the founder of the Protez Foundation, this experience is already impacting the development of medicine and prosthetics on a global scale.
The U.S.–Ukraine HealthCare Forum has emerged as a platform for genuine professional dialogue, fostering new connections and creating long-term partnerships that could yield benefits now and in the future, according to the Christian Medical Association of Ukraine.