As the war continues to strain Ukraine’s health system, the partnership between the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Union is playing a critical role in maintaining essential health services while advancing long-term system reforms. Through the Directorate-General for Enlargement and Eastern Neighbourhood (DG ENEST)–WHO project, the collaboration combines emergency interventions with structural improvements to enhance resilience, recovery and equitable access to care for millions of Ukrainians, particularly in frontline and war-affected areas.
In response to repeated attacks on energy infrastructure and rising health needs, the project prioritizes hospital support, primary health care strengthening, improved access to medicines and the management of urgent public health challenges. To ensure continuity of care during winter, WHO installed modular heating units in hospitals across Zaporizhzhia and Chernivtsi regions, enabling facilities to function independently during power outages. Advanced water treatment stations were also set up in hospitals in Kharkiv city and region, ensuring safe water for critical services such as operating theatres and intensive care units. In parallel, essential medicines, trauma supplies and emergency medical equipment have been delivered to frontline facilities.
Beyond emergency measures, the partnership supports systemic reforms in health financing, governance and primary care. WHO has worked with the Government of Ukraine to formalize governance processes, improve budget planning and revise financing models to better reflect wartime realities. Adjustments to the Programme of Medical Guarantees have led to increased payments, expanded funding for mental health services and additional support for rural and frontline areas, improving access to care for more than five million people. Technical assistance also informed the 2026 programme framework, resulting in a 19% increase in the capitation rate and reinforcing primary health care funding.
The collaboration further strengthens access to essential medicines by aligning national standards with WHO and EU regulations, improving procurement and supply chain systems, and supporting sustainable local production. Efforts include enhanced reimbursement mechanisms, quality assurance improvements and targeted communication campaigns to help displaced people, residents of newly affected regions and older adults access the Affordable Medicines Programme. WHO has also developed a budget impact model to support evidence-based resource allocation and equitable treatment access.
Addressing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) remains a priority, as disruptions caused by the war have intensified existing health burdens. WHO is supporting prevention, early detection and treatment through updated clinical guidelines, surveillance systems and public awareness initiatives. A pilot cervical cancer screening programme launched in Cherkasy region in 2025 introduced new national guidelines and trained health professionals in early diagnosis. Broader efforts to reduce NCD risk factors include updated hypertension management guidelines, nationwide training for primary care professionals and public campaigns promoting blood pressure control.
To strengthen preparedness for future threats, the partnership is enhancing disease surveillance and antimicrobial resistance control. The introduction of epidemic intelligence systems and national AMR surveys has improved early warning and outbreak response capacity. By operationalizing a One Health approach and supporting implementation of the National AMR Action Plan, WHO and the EU are reinforcing Ukraine’s ability to respond to complex health risks while continuing to support the national health system through 2026.
