During the visit of the President of Ukraine to the United States of America, First Lady Olena Zelenska, along with Deputy Minister of Defense Nataliia Kalmykova, visited the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. This is one of the largest medical centers in the USA.
The facility provides all necessary medical services to military personnel, veterans, and their families. The center is also a leading institution in the field of medical research and development, allowing military personnel access to advanced treatment methods and technologies.
"I am grateful to the center's leadership and medical staff for supporting Ukrainian military personnel by organizing training sessions and sharing advanced experience with our medical professionals – the center conducts professional development for them. We highly value your solidarity and support," said the First Lady.
Olena Zelenska discussed with the center's representatives the importance of psychological rehabilitation for soldiers.
"Specialists of the All-Ukrainian Mental Health Program studied the experience of the US Department of Defense's 'Real Warriors' information campaign, aimed at encouraging military personnel to seek help independently. We would be happy to cooperate in this direction," she noted.
The First Lady also expressed hope for the inclusion of the Walter Reed Center in the international medical partnership initiated by Ukraine for direct cooperation between medical institutions in our country and worldwide. Medical institutions from 17 countries have already partnered with 43 Ukrainian hospitals.
"Specific hospitals in Ukraine receive a 'partner' abroad, and within the partnership, there are trainings, internships, and visiting missions. I propose establishing a partnership between the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and the Rivne Regional War Veterans Hospital," said Olena Zelenska.
The President's wife emphasized that Ukraine is implementing a comprehensive approach to medical care to not only save the lives of defenders but also maintain their quality of life.