Unique Challenges for WHO Emergency Medical Teams in Ukraine: Field Assessment and Global Recommendations

Abstract

The purpose of World Health Organization (WHO) Emergency Medical Teams (EMT) is to provide timely, high-quality health services in the immediate aftermath of disasters and during disease outbreaks and other emergencies, including conflict and insecurity. The war in Ukraine has presented all health-care providers with many unique challenges. This assessment addresses the importance and the complexities of the global spread of the Emergency Medical Team system challenges to meet a wide variety of crises including war, those that are unique to this very complex crisis in Ukraine, and the essential role of educational initiatives, not only in professional development but also in teamwork and cultural integration.