Support for the development of simulation medicine in Ukraine in the context of Russian aggression was discussed on November 20 during a meeting of Ukrainian medical specialists with representatives of the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS).

The event, which was held online, was attended by Rector of Shupyk National University of Healthcare of Ukraine Viacheslav Kaminsky, Vice-Rector for Research & Education and International Cooperation Oleh Shevchenko, Chairman of the Board of MedGlobal Ukraine Oleksandra Kozlovska, and Chairman of the Ukrainian Association of Simulation Medicine Oleksandr Litus.

As Oleksandr Litus noted, simulation medicine has become a vital tool for saving lives and preparing medical professionals to work in extreme conditions in these challenging times in Ukraine.

Despite the significant efforts of Ukrainian medical institutions, Ukraine needs international support to address key issues such as logistics (purchase of modern equipment, mannequins, VR systems, simulators for laparoscopic and endoscopic procedures, and 3-D simulators) and training of Ukrainian trainers by European standards.

“MedGlobal actively assists in conducting trainings for trainers to share the experience of Ukrainian and foreign medical professionals, but they need to be held several times more, Ukraine needs to join forces and involve professional associations,” said Oleksandra Kozlovska.

The meeting also touched upon the issue of regulatory regulation, i.e. recommendations for adapting Ukrainian standards of simulation medicine to European ones.

“I would like to emphasize the crucial role of the Ukrainian Federation of Professional Medical Organisations, which is currently the most influential association covering the entire territory of Ukraine.  Shupyk National University of Healthcare of Ukraine, which is the most powerful postgraduate education base in Ukraine, also plays a significant role in the development of simulation medicine. These institutions are key to the promotion of simulation medicine and its effective implementation at the national level,” emphasized Oleh Shevchenko.

The Ukrainian and European colleagues expressed confidence that by working together they will be able to achieve significant results in organizing joint training courses and programs, as well as implementing European norms into Ukrainian legislation.