Total of 5,000 patients evacuated from Ukraine to EU countries
A total of 5,000 patients have been evacuated from Ukraine to EU Member States under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. The 5,000th patient was evacuated to Finland. Finnish Minister of Social Security Sanni Grahn-Laasonen and EU Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib met on 16 April to discuss issues such as the evacuation of patients.
Patients have been evacuated from Ukraine to a total of 22 EU countries. Around 60 patients have been evacuated to Finland. Finland has offered treatment to more patients, but Ukraine and the patients themselves decide which country’s offer of treatment they accept. The largest numbers of patients have been evacuated to Germany and other countries neighbouring Ukraine.
“Recently, more patients have been evacuated from Ukraine to Finland than at the beginning of Russia’s war of aggression. Finland takes an active part in international preparedness cooperation, and it is important that our healthcare and social welfare system is involved in supporting Ukraine,” said Minister Grahn-Laasonen.
Evacuations are carried out under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. The Emergency Response Coordination Centre (ERCC), operating under the European Commission, coordinates requests for assistance and the provision of assistance.
“By welcoming patients in need, Finland has once again demonstrated its solidarity and readiness to help when it matters most. This month we reached 5,000 medical evacuations under the EU Civil Protection Mechanism to 22 European countries. Finland’s solidarity stands out as a powerful example of this commitment in action. We will continue to strengthen our collective response to protect those most in need,” said Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib.
In Finland, the Ministry of the Interior is responsible for coordinating operations relating to the EU Civil Protection Mechanism. The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health has tasked the HUS Helsinki University Hospital with coordinating arrangements for patients arriving in Finland. However, not all patients remain in the HUS region for treatment if a suitable treatment facility is found at another university hospital.
Inquiries:
Eemil Nuuttila, Special Adviser to the Minister of Social Security, tel. +358 295 163 366,