The second meeting of the UEMS Working Group on Ukraine took place on September 12. The meeting, which was conducted online, focused on discussing the potential for stronger cooperation between the Ukrainian medical community and the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS).
Oleg Shevchenko, who serves as the Advisor to the President of the Ukrainian Federation of Professional Medical Organizations (UFPMO) and as the Vice-Rector for Scientific and Pedagogical Work and International Cooperation of the Shupyk National University of Healthcare of Ukraine, represented the UFPMO at the meeting.
He emphasized that the UFPMO considers collaboration with the UEMS to be a top priority. He also expressed the Federation’s willingness to support the European Union’s efforts to establish a shared medical network aimed at enhancing the professional skills and qualifications of Ukrainian doctors.
“The Federation fully supports the core values of the UEMS Working Group on Ukraine, which include: community and collegiality; open and transparent communication; fairness and inclusiveness; consensus-based decision-making; and a balance between work and well-being,” Shevchenko stated.
Oleh Shevchenko suggested that the UFPMO be included as the second representative from Ukraine. He highlighted that this move would not only significantly enhance international cooperation and provide additional support to Ukrainian doctors, but also enable the full coverage of all medical professionals in Ukraine. With almost one hundred associations representing various medical specialties and regions, such representation in UEMS would be an important tool for effectively advocating for the interests of the entire medical community of Ukraine, contributing to the systemic development of healthcare and the improvement of the quality of medical services.
At the meeting, we discussed several important topics. These included creating virtual support networks and mentoring programs for doctors, supporting the mental health and resilience of medical professionals, and improving postgraduate training and continuing medical education. We also emphasized the need for research and cooperation in healthcare, particularly related to the health of children and adolescents.
Furthermore, we focused on the importance of planning for the post-conflict reconstruction of Ukraine’s healthcare system to ensure the long-term strengthening of medical infrastructure and public health. It was agreed that these issues would be further discussed at a face-to-face meeting in Brussels in October.