Unlike all other sectors of economic activity in the Ukraine, public health depends almost entirely on state funding. The sharp decrease of budget funding is at a critical level. The result is a loss of stability, accessibility and the quality of medical care, especially for children. Given the inability to maintain the hospitals and obtain newer equipment, the incidence rate of mortality and primary disability has increased significantly.
– Prevalent health issues in the Ukraine are HIV/Aids, Tuberculosis and iodine deficiency disorders.
– Births are not always attended by skilled health care professionals.
– It is common for children to have vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
– Many children under 5 years of age are anemic.
– Many children have low birth weight.
Unisef, WHO and The MoH are working together on adaptation and implementation of Integrated Childhood Diseases Management. This approach provides simple and effective methods of prevention and treatment of basic causes of childhood diseases. This collaborative group is working with the government of the Ukraine to assure that all children can exercise their right to have vaccinations.
The Uman Children’s Hospital, a budget health care facility treats 5143 children under 5 years of age every year and 12,357 children over 5 years of age. It has 40 beds for overnight, 14 designated beds for pediatrics and a day hospital for 25 beds. The children, age birth-18, are seen in school institutions as well as in the medical center. The hospital serves as a dispensary and concentrates on Pediatrics, Physical Therapy and Nutrition.
AORF can help improve the quality of care and reduce infant mortality by sending medications and medical supplies directly to the hospital.