Ukraine Must Rethink Rehabilitation as a National Priority, Says Mykolaiv Governor Vitaliy Kim.

Urgent Call for a Unified Rehabilitation System

According to Novyny.live: Vitaliy Kim, head of the Mykolaiv Regional State Administration, has stressed the urgent need to build a single, cohesive rehabilitation system for wounded individuals in Ukraine. He highlighted the critical role of state policy and structural support in making this happen. This issue has gained increasing attention as the war continues to produce a high number of casualties requiring long-term care.

“This is a task for the state, and we must accomplish it by ensuring that everyone in need receives one uninterrupted recovery process,” Kim stated.

According to available data, over 130,000 Ukrainian veterans are now living with disabilities caused by the war. This stark figure underscores the serious challenges faced by service members returning from the front lines. Kim noted that “already today, more than 130,000 veterans have war-related disabilities,” making it clear that rehabilitation services are essential for their reintegration into society.

Rehabilitation System Needs Overhaul

Kim also pointed out that “those who need rehabilitation services often complain about a lack of clear information on what to do next.” This highlights the pressing need to improve Ukraine’s rehabilitation system. He emphasized that the main goal is to rethink rehabilitation as a continuous process: “It is a continuous process—from the moment of injury to full return to life.”

The World Health Organization estimates that one in three people will need rehabilitation at some point in their lives. This again confirms the importance of developing a comprehensive system that can provide access to rehabilitation services for everyone in need, including veterans. It is worth noting that up to 20% of veterans exhibit symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or depression, making psychological support a vital component of rehabilitation.

Therefore, creating a unified rehabilitation system in Ukraine appears to be an extremely urgent task. Kim stressed that “the main task is to rethink rehabilitation,” which would allow veterans to receive the necessary support and assistance in returning to normal life.

Establishing a single rehabilitation system in Ukraine is significant not only for veterans but for society as a whole, as it can help integrate people with disabilities. Improving access to rehabilitation services could reduce social isolation and enhance the quality of life for those affected by the war. This issue requires a comprehensive approach that addresses all aspects of physical, psychological, and social rehabilitation.