After more than 18 months of war, the medical infrastructure in Ukraine has been severely compromised, and access to medical services are severely constrained all across the country. Nearly 1,200 healthcare facilities have been damaged, ambulances have been stolen or wrecked, and medical facilities lack sufficient healthcare products and equipment.
Working conditions for treatment staff are challenging, as surgeons operate on patients while air raid sirens shriek in the background. Doctors have been threatened, and attacks have forced many hospitals to shut down or sharply reduce services, pharmacy operations have been disrupted as well. Millions of people in Ukraine are without access to necessary medical treatment, even while medical professionals continue to provide treatment at great personal sacrifice.
With the support of the Jewish Community of Dnipro, headed by Rabbi Shmuel Kaminetski, at the Jewish Medical Center (JMC) in Dnipro, improvements are on the horizon:
“Numerous positive changes,” says Professor Alexander Rodinsky, Chairman of the Board and CEO of the JMC, “have taken place as we move closer to the opening. After August 24th, we plan to commence a test phase, and a grand opening is planned closer to the holidays of Tishri in September.”
The highlight is the operating room – the heart of the future department – that will be equipped with a “Leica” surgical microscope specifically designed for vascular, neuro, and ophthalmic surgeons, complemented by a cutting-edge surgical diode laser. An intraoperative X-ray system, “C-arc,” will enable doctors to see intricate details during procedures, and the “Mindray WATO EX-65 Pro,” anesthesia and ventilation system will allow for customized anesthesia based on patients’ breathing patterns. Finally, the “KARL STORZ” laparoscopic system, will enable complex endoscopic and intracavity surgeries to be performed.
The surgery department’s commitment to ensuring positive health outcomes is apparent throughout the unit: walls and doors are lined with barium plates, sterilization and washing areas are equipped with contactless tools, and a robust oxygen concentrator ensures a seamless supply of oxygen to all patients. The attention to detail extends to staff comfort, including improved restrooms and dining facilities. The entire facility has undergone comprehensive repairs, ensuring a high level of energy efficiency and independence (a critical feature in light of frequent utility disruptions).
JRNU works hard each and every day to assist individuals secure necessary medical treatment in addition to other forms of humanitarian aid. With your support, we continue to save lives and restore hope.
