Successful Crisis Intervention in Ukraine
Since 2022, the Robert Koch Institute and Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin have strengthened medical care in Ukraine through telemedicine – a project that continues making an impact in the crisis region even after its completion.
Telemedicine as a reactive crisis intervention tool is an approach pursued by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) and Charité since the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the summer of 2022, telemedicine has also been used in Ukraine, as the healthcare system has been under immense strain due to the war. The FUTURE International UKR project, commissioned by the German Federal Ministry of Health, is part of the Global Health Protection Programme (GHPP). The aim of the project is to provide medical expertise, particularly in the intensive care treatment of patients with severe injuries and complex infectious diseases. The project was concluded in December 2024.
Telemedical infrastructure established in Ukraine
In agreement with the Ukrainian Ministry of Health, key hospitals were equipped with telemedicine robots from Charité. A total of 12 devices are in operation with GHPP funding. Additionally, a cooperation between Charité and BG Kliniken brought another 10 devices within the context of the SOLOMIYA project.
A viable telemedicine network is established
Regular telemedicine visits enable Ukrainian clinical staff to directly access German expertise in intensive care, infectiology, paediatrics, and traumatology at the bedside as needed. The SOLOMIYA network expands this to include specialised fields, such as rehabilitation and reconstructive surgery. During the project period, over 600 telemedicine consultations took place.
The success of telemedicine in Ukrainian clinics has led the Ukrainian Ministry of Health to request its continuation. The technology contributes to long-term capacity building and helps to fill personnel gaps created by the war. It allows collaboration with urgently needed expertise from Germany without having to send specialists on-site.
E-learning programme developed
In addition to providing telemedical support, further medical professional development was advanced. Videos for a modular e-learning programme were developed, covering a range of content from intensive care to traumatology. These videos are integrated into the Ukrainian further education system of the National Health Service Ukraine. They are available to students and professionals alike. This way, the programme contributes to the sustainable training of the next generation of medical professionals in Ukraine.
Perspectives: Strengthening the Ukrainian health system
Even after the project’s completion, FUTURE International UKR will continue to make an impact. The e-learning programme will remain accessible in the long term, and the telemedicine robots will stay at Ukrainian clinics. This ensures that telemedicine support can continue. The project partners intend to keep in contact and strive for long-term collaboration to improve medical care on-site.
Telemedicine has proven to be a valuable tool for providing quick and effective medical assistance during times of crisis. Through its successful implementation in Ukraine, the immediate patient care has improved. Additionally, sustainable knowledge exchange between German and Ukrainian professionals is flourishing. The combination of direct telemedicine support and long-term continuing education strengthens the Ukrainian health system. It also better prepares it for future challenges.
