“First hand experience in the medical profession during times of war”

Four Ukrainian leaders participating in the Open World Program will spend November 4-12 in Wichita examining the theme: Administration of Healthcare Facilities. The delegates will be hosted by Rotarians from the West, East and Downtown clubs.

While in Wichita, the delegates will meet with local leaders to share ideas and experience for supporting their work in Ukraine. Their program includes visits at the Kansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Starkey, Ascension Via Christi hospitals, Red Cross, the Kansas Health Foundation, Catholic Care Center, Guadalupe Clinic, Homehealth and Hospice, Medical Loan Closet, Resthaven Mortuary and with several medical practitioners (dentist, chiropractor, pediatrician, podiatrist, family practice). Cultural activities are planned for them as well, including dinners with Rotary families, shopping, an evening at Chicken and Pickle, and museums including the new health exhibit at Exploration Place.

Funded almost entirely by the U.S. Congress, Open World links delegates to their counterparts and is an instrument for Americans engaged in citizen diplomacy. This International Service project supports all of the seven areas of focus for Rotary: Supporting Education, Saving Mothers and Children, Fighting Disease, Providing Clean Water and Sanitation, Growing Local Economies, Protecting the Environment; and especially Promoting Peace.

The team from Ukraine will be presenting a program to our club today and on Wednesday noon, Nov 9, at the East Wichita Rotary Club at the Wichita Country Club. They will share their knowledge and first-hand experience of what it’s like being in the medical profession at times of war. They will be introduced at the Downtown Rotary Club meeting on Monday noon, Nov 7, at Botanica and will be available after the meeting to meet attendees.