In light of the recent global events, Ascension Saint Thomas and Tennessee Oncology joined forces to support our Ukrainian colleagues by providing an oncology observership training and medical exchange program focused on best practices in the treatment of cancer patients.
Through this fully funded initiative, with the help of The Nashville Wine Auction, this event facilitated an experience for eight to ten Ukrainian physicians over a span of two weeks. We had a diverse cohort, including oncologists, cancer care managers, radiologists, pathologists, nurses, palliative care experts, and tele-medicine specialists.
Throughout their visit, Ukrainian physicians had the opportunity to observe and learn from their American counterparts, gaining insights into cutting-edge healthcare advancements and adopting life-saving medical practices. Additionally, their experience extended beyond the professional scope, offering a unique chance to immerse themselves into local culture and traditions through informal gatherings at homes, restaurants, museums, cultural centers, and churches.
Ukrainian physicians also shared, with their peers, personal accounts detailing the impact of the war on themselves, their families, patients, colleagues, and their nation as a whole. This interaction provided an opportunity for individuals to gain a firsthand understanding of the realities unfolding in Eastern Europe.
The project was done in collaboration with the Peace and Development Foundation, whose goal is to bring the best international experience to Ukraine to help young and mid-career professionals grow in Quality, Character, and Ethics.
The Ministry of Health of Ukraine selected participants by the criteria of their professional criteria, knowledge of English and potential impact they make upon return. The U.S. Embassy in Ukraine provided outstanding visa support to the group.
