Speakers - 2024

Biography

Yevheniia is the Executive Director of the All Ukrainian Charitable Organization "CONVICTUS UKRAINE", which has been a reliable partner of government agencies and non-governmental organizations for more than 15 years on programs on counteraction to HIV, tuberculosis, and other socially significant diseases; in implementing harm reduction programs, working with key populations, vulnerable children and adolescents; in developing assistance to women and children who have suffered from violence, and in implementing humanitarian programs for Ukrainians affected by war. She has extensive manager experience and has worked in a number of national working groups on building the sustainability of HIV and TB services, developing changes to regulations, and developing reintegration and gender equality programs in Ukraine. 

Abstract

Introduction. Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine has affected all areas of the country. Two years of war - destroyed infrastructure and population displacement - have put a critical strain on the healthcare system. Vulnerable populations (PWID, SW, and TG) have become particularly vulnerable. The fight against HIV, TB, and hepatitis requires joint efforts of governmental and non-governmental organizations to reduce the spread of diseases among most at-risk populations.

Description. During the war period, the organization strengthened its cooperation with government organizations and implemented new strategies for working with the most at-risk populations in HIV, TB, and hepatitis programs. An integration services center was created, where a team of specialists in various fields works to provide HIV testing and treatment (ART), hepatitis C testing, TB screening, support in diagnosis and treatment, as well as restoration of lost documents, psychological support, humanitarian assistance, referrals to substitution support programs and support in them. We have ensured the delivery of ART drugs to the places of residence and transportation of seriously ill patients for diagnosis and treatment.

Lessons learned Thanks to the implementation of flexible approaches in 2023 the organization increased the coverage of most at-risk groups with HIV, TB, and hepatitis programs, and new clients in the organization's programs increased by 32%. In particular, in 2023, 45,558 people used HIV prevention services, 897 new HIV cases were detected, and 657 received ART and support services.  22,157 TB screenings were conducted, 28 people received support in TB treatment, and 7,691 tests for Hepatitis C were conducted, of which 2,387 people with positive results were referred to medical facilities. More than 23,000 people received humanitarian and psychological services, which helped to ensure client retention in the programs.