Ukraine’s Healthcare Crisis: Over 1,800 Medical Facilities Damaged or Destroyed Since Inception of Full-Scale Invasion
The ongoing conflict between Ukrainian forces and Russian-backed separatist groups has taken a devastating toll on Ukraine’s healthcare system. According to the latest data from Ukraine’s Ministry of Health, an astonishing 1,813 medical facilities have been damaged or destroyed since the beginning of the full-scale invasion in February 2022.
The report highlights the dire need for urgent humanitarian aid and international intervention to mitigate the suffering of civilians caught in the midst of the conflict. The destruction and damage to medical facilities have resulted in restricted access to healthcare services, exacerbating existing challenges and creating new ones.
The affected healthcare infrastructure includes hospitals, clinics, trauma centers, and other medical facilities, making it difficult for medical professionals to treat the wounded and provide essential care to civilians. The damage has also disrupted vaccination programs, leading to concerns over the spread of preventable diseases.
"The systematic destruction of Ukraine’s healthcare system is having a catastrophic impact on the lives and wellbeing of innocent civilians," said Dr. Oksana, a Ukrainian surgeon. "We are facing impossible conditions, with limited resources and the constant threat of attack. Patients are being forced to seek emergency care in makeshift facilities, and thousands are left without access to regular medical services."
The Ministry of Health also reported that over 1,000 doctors and medical staff have lost their lives or been injured due to the conflict. Many more are struggling to continue their work under immense pressure, with some forced to flee or go into hiding.
The toll on Ukraine’s healthcare system is attributed to the relentless bombardment and intentional targeting of medical facilities by Russian and Russian-backed forces. The international community has called out these atrocities, with international organizations and governments condemning the attacks on civilian infrastructure.
The United States, European Union, and other nations have increased humanitarian aid to Ukraine, providing assistance with medical supplies, equipment, and training for healthcare professionals. However, despite these efforts, the situation remains dire.
"The international community must maintain its pressure on Russia to cease all attacks on civilian infrastructure, including healthcare facilities, and ensure unhindered access for medical personnel and aid," said Zoran Jankovic, Ambassador of the European Union to Ukraine. "We will continue to support Ukraine’s resilient healthcare system and work towards achieving a lasting peace."
As the crisis continues, the Ukrainian government and civil society organizations are working tirelessly to rebuild damaged facilities and provide emergency care. Calls for international support and pressure on Russia to respect international humanitarian law have become more urgent than ever.