World Bank-backed project helps Ukraine’s health system keep going

By World Bank

World Bank-backed project helps Ukraine’s health system keep going

Ukraine’s public health system has faced huge challenges in the last few years, but a project backed by the World Bank is helping doctors, hospitals, and labs step up, according to a press release. This program started in 2021 to fight COVID-19, but when war reached the country, it quickly shifted to cover the new—and urgent—needs that came with conflict.

Lab teams across Ukraine received 1,500 new machines, including high-tech sequencers. These tools let local experts find viruses and bacteria quickly, instead of sending samples abroad and waiting weeks for results.

“Now, this equipment is used for detecting all infectious diseases, such as viral hepatitis, HIV, and other dangerous infectious diseases,” said Ihor Kuzin, Ukraine’s Chief State Sanitary Doctor.

The project also brought in new gear to keep vaccines cold, replacing outdated fridges with modern storage rooms and installing refrigerated vans for delivery. This means vaccines stay safe from warehouse to clinic, and parents can see good storage in every vaccination room, boosting their confidence in the system.

Hospitals received over 769 generators to make sure they have power even when fighting cuts the electricity. Nearly 200 hospitals also got 300 new anesthesia and respiratory devices. These upgrades help doctors keep caring for patients—during emergencies, surgeries, and everyday care.

All together, these changes mean Ukraine’s health system is better prepared to handle crises and to give people safer, more reliable care wherever they live.