Equal Access to Healthcare: Public Dialogue on Accessibility of Medical Services Held in Storozhynets Community

Representatives of organizations of persons with disabilities, veterans’ organizations, community residents, representatives of the Storozhynets City Council, as well as the hospital’s management and staff took part in the meeting. The open dialogue format created an opportunity to discuss current challenges and jointly look for practical solutions.

The meeting was attended by representatives of public organizations of people with disabilities, veterans' organizations, community members, representatives of the Storozhynets City Council, as well as hospital management and staff. The open dialog format provided an opportunity to discuss current issues and look for solutions together.

During the meeting, participants raised issues related to the accessibility of medical and diagnostic equipment, access to healthcare and diagnostic services, rehabilitation opportunities, and dental care for patients who are unable to move independently due to their health condition.

At the same time, participants noted that significant progress has already been made in improving accessibility at the hospital. According to a representative of the Government Commissioner for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities at the Chernivtsi Regional Military Administration, the Storozhynets hospital is one of the most accessible and comfortable healthcare facilities in the region for people with reduced mobility.

Systematic work in this area is evidenced by the availability of inclusive wards, elevators, ramps, and lifting devices, as well as multifunctional medical equipment that enables the hospital to provide services to patients with different needs.

The aim of the initiative is to promote equal access to healthcare and diagnostic services for persons with disabilities in the community. This includes the introduction of accessible universal medical equipment and the involvement of persons with disabilities in decision-making processes related to the organization of healthcare services.

The meeting concluded with a spontaneous flash mob titled “Equal Access — Equal Life,” which brought together persons with disabilities and healthcare workers in support of the idea of accessible healthcare for everyone.

The advocacy campaign is expected to increase awareness among community residents about the needs of persons with disabilities and the importance of accessible medical equipment, as well as to strengthen constructive dialogue between the community, healthcare institutions, and local authorities in addressing accessibility issues.

The advocacy campaign is implemented by the National Assembly of People with Disabilities of Ukraine and the NGO “Chernivtsi Regional Organization of Persons with Disabilities ‘Leader’” in cooperation with the Storozhynets Multidisciplinary Intensive Care Hospital and the Storozhynets City Council.

The advocacy campaign is carried out within the project “Multi-sectoral humanitarian assistance with a disability-inclusive approach for internally displaced persons, repatriates, veterans and host communities in Ukraine.” The project is implemented by the National Assembly of People with Disabilities of Ukraine in partnership with the European Disability Forum (EDF) with the support of the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO) and CBM (Christian Blind Mission).

Oleksandra Perkova, Communications Manager of the Project