A key medical facility in the region, the blood transfusion station receives blood from donors and prepares it for use in transfusions, which are then performed by hospitals and clinics. Over 40 locations in Mykolaiv, Kherson and Odesa oblasts depend on the station’s services.

As part of the $1.3 million project, UNOPS is procuring a range of equipment including an automated blood separator, a whole blood processing platform, and other essential equipment used to automate various stages of blood extraction and processing, which will significantly increase output and improve the quality of services.

The new equipment will enable the station to serve up to 40,000 patients with life-threatening conditions annually.

“Ever since the start of the Russian invasion, we have been under increased pressure to meet the demand for blood components,” said Valerii Chyniakov, Director of the Mykolayiv Regional Blood Transfusion Station.

“Medical professionals rely on us to provide them with what’s needed to save lives. The new equipment will go a long way in helping us with the current situation, and it’s also a significant long-term contribution to the region’s healthcare system,” he added.

Ukraine’s healthcare system is under immense stress due to the ongoing war. There have been over 1,125 verified attacks on healthcare infrastructure, patients receiving care, medical transportation, supplies and personnel. Ensuring the continued provision of health services in communities is one of the priorities of the Ukrainian government, steadfastly supported by the United Nations.

“Good-quality healthcare is fundamental to wellbeing and development,” noted Tim Lardner, UNOPS Country Director in Ukraine.

“UNOPS supports healthcare systems around the world, so we are well positioned to do this too in Ukraine. The impact of this equipment will be extensive, as dozens of healthcare facilities depend on its outputs.”