“Follow-up and continuing care” standards now available in Ukrainian

Neonatal and perinatal care is a national priority in Ukraine. In 2023, the Ministry of Health and the National Health Service of Ukraine (NHSU) intensified efforts to strengthen perinatal services across the country. As part of these efforts, the set of 16 standards for the topic of “Follow-up and continuing care” has now been translated, reviewed, and adapted into Ukrainian.

Translation of the ESCNH standards

The translation of the standards on “Follow-up and continuing care” was a joint initiative by the NHSU, UNICEF, and the parent and patient organisation “Early Birds” (Ранні пташки). This milestone supports Ukraine in aligning national practice with international best standards, also in the context of EU integration.

Supporting healthcare professionals nationwide

The Ukrainian editions are intended for healthcare professionals working in maternity, perinatal, and paediatric services. They are expected to serve as a key reference for future national clinical guidelines, protocols, and legislation.

Capacity-building and knowledge sharing

Capacity-building activities are already under way. Since 2024, UNICEF has led a national webinar programme on Follow-up Care for Newborns with Low Birth Weight within the Medical Guarantees Programme, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, the National Health Service of Ukraine, “Early Birds”, and with support from the Advisor and Commissioner of the President of Ukraine for Children’s Rights and Rehabilitation. The programme brings together teams from perinatal care centres, oblast children’s hospitals, and primary healthcare facilities.

Gratitude and collaboration

The Ministry of Health, the National Health Service of Ukraine, UNICEF Ukraine, and Early Birds express their sincere gratitude to GFCNI for ongoing support and collaboration in improving care for Ukraine’s smallest patients – especially in times of war.