Ukrainian refugees in Europe return home for medical care

Ukrainian refugees in Europe are travelling back to their home country to get medical care they cannot access elsewhere, ERR reported. A study found that while host countries provide initial protection, their healthcare systems often fail people who need long-term treatment.

An international team of researchers analysed 122 interviews with refugees and experts in six countries between 2023 and 2025. The study examined how refugees with conditions including HIV and tuberculosis obtain essential medicines.

Patients face language barriers, complex bureaucracy and fear of stigma, the researchers found. Shortages of interpreters and errors by automated translation apps can make it harder to get treatment. Refugees have built networks to share information through messaging apps and arrange medicine deliveries.

People with chronic illnesses also often travel back to Ukraine, despite the dangers, to see a doctor they trust. The researchers said rigid healthcare systems in European countries are slow to adapt to the needs of traumatised newcomers. A lack of specially trained social workers and differences in treatment plans between countries can undermine patients’ trust, leaving grassroots groups and volunteers to fill gaps in official care.

The study was published in BMC Health Services Research.