Pilot Project for Veteran Medical and Psychological Services
The Ukrainian government has approved a resolution to launch a pilot project providing medical and psychological services to veterans suffering from substance use disorders, including alcohol. The state will cover the cost of comprehensive support for this group, a move experts believe is a crucial step in addressing addiction issues within the veteran community. This initiative comes as the nation continues to support those who have served during a prolonged period of conflict.
The project will deliver multidisciplinary assistance covering medical, psychological, psychiatric, and social aspects. A primary goal is to develop and implement effective treatment and support approaches for veterans while also raising awareness among their family members. The support program will be delivered in three stages, spanning a total of 340 days.
Stages of Veteran Support
- First Stage – Inpatient: Lasting 30 days, this phase involves comprehensive medical and psychological support, including individual and group psychotherapy, work with a social worker, physical activity, informational sessions, as well as pharmacological and nutritional support.
- Second Stage – Outpatient: Also lasting 30 days, this stage will involve individual and group psychotherapy once per week.
- Third Stage – Long-term Outpatient Support: Lasting 280 days, this final phase will include group therapy once per week.
Service providers can be institutions of any ownership form or individual entrepreneurs with the requisite capabilities. The Ministry for Veterans Affairs will reimburse the costs for providing these services. Separately, starting January 1, 2026, a project for personalized veteran support will commence in all communal medical institutions in the capital.
The implementation of this pilot project is an important step toward improving the quality of life for veterans facing addiction issues. – Ministry for Veterans Affairs
Given the complex and multifaceted nature of addiction, a multidisciplinary approach can significantly enhance treatment effectiveness. Long-term support and the inclusion of veterans' families are also seen as critical for successful rehabilitation and the reintegration of former service members into society.