MODERNIZING UKRAINE'S MILITARY HEALTHCARE SYSTEM TO MEET NATO STANDARDS

Abstract

The article addresses the modernization of Ukraine's military medical system in compliance with NATO standards, which is a crucial task amidst the full-scale war and Ukraine's integration into the Euro-Atlantic security framework. The main challenges of medical support in the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) are identified, including the low quality of medical supplies, deficiencies in the evacuation system for the wounded, a lack of trained specialists, and the mismatch of training programs with current requirements.The role of standardization is examined as a key tool for enhancing the effectiveness of medical care for military personnel, particularly through the implementation of the Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) guidelines and NATO standards (STANAG). A detailed analysis of the legal framework governing the harmonization of national standards with international requirements is provided. Attention is focused on the structure of military medical standardization in Ukraine, which encompasses organizational, clinical, material-technical, and educational components.The contribution of volunteer organizations and international partners is explored in providing the military with modern medical protective equipment, organizing the training of combat medics, and adapting NATO best practices. It is noted that the implementation of standards for unifying first aid kits, battlefield medical protocols, evacuation procedures, and technical support contributes to improving the quality of medical care.Special attention is given to the prospects of harmonizing the AFU medical support system with Euro-Atlantic standards, including the digitization of management processes, the creation of a unified medical space, and enhancing the quality of military rehabilitation. The authors emphasize that the success of these reforms depends on overcoming existing challenges such as limited resources, the complexity of adapting standards to Ukrainian conditions, and insufficient training of specialists.The conclusions suggest that standardization of Ukraine's military medicine is a significant step towards improving its defense capabilities, optimizing resource use, and advancing the country’s integration into NATO membership.