In a continuing demonstration of solidarity with Ukraine, MacKay Memorial Hospital of Taiwan announced Monday that it successfully completed its fifth humanitarian medical mission to Ukraine.
The mission provided vital free medical services to residents of several Ukrainian cities still grappling with the devastating effects of the ongoing war.
Mission Overview: Taiwan’s Lifeline to Ukraine
The mission took place between April 13 and April 27, 2025, featuring an 11-member volunteer medical team led by Tsai Wei-de (蔡維德), Director of the hospital’s International Medical Service Center (IMSC).
The team included specialists in:
- Cardiology
- Dentistry
- Oral Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
“We wanted to offer a wide range of medical services tailored to the needs we observed during our previous missions,” said Tsai.
Medical Services: From High-Tech Cardiology to Traditional Healing
During their two-week mission, the team established temporary outpatient clinics inside churches located in:
- Zviahel
- Korosten
- Medzhybizh
- Ternopil
Services provided included:
- Cardiac ultrasound examinations
- General cardiology checkups
- Dental procedures and oral surgeries
- Acupuncture and cupping therapy
Interestingly, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatments, especially acupuncture and cupping, drew large numbers of patients, showcasing an increasing acceptance of Eastern healing practices in wartime Ukraine.
Specialized Training for Ukrainian Medical Personnel
Beyond treating civilians, the team also worked on capacity building for Ukrainian healthcare providers:
- Conducted three Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) training courses at hospitals and medical universities.
- Hosted a regional medical workshop in Khmelnytskyi, attracting over 100 Ukrainian physicians.
This approach reflects a strategic shift — moving beyond emergency relief to skill transfer and local empowerment.
Broader Context: A Continuing Commitment
MacKay Memorial Hospital’s humanitarian work in Ukraine dates back to April 2022, just two months after Russia’s full-scale invasion.
Since then, the hospital has organized five missions, underlining Taiwan’s long-term commitment to global humanitarian aid despite its own geopolitical challenges.
In Taiwan, this outreach is also seen as an important element of international soft power, illustrating that Taiwan, often excluded from major international organizations like the WHO, can still lead humanitarian efforts globally.
“Medical diplomacy is our bridge to the world,” Tsai emphasized.
FAQs
How many times has MacKay Memorial Hospital sent medical teams to Ukraine?
Five missions have been organized since April 2022.
What specialties were included in the latest medical mission?
Cardiology, dentistry, oral surgery, emergency medicine, and traditional Chinese medicine.
Where were the medical services provided in Ukraine?
Temporary clinics were set up in Zviahel, Korosten, Medzhybizh, and Ternopil.
Besides treating patients, what else did the team do?
They conducted Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) training and a regional medical workshop for Ukrainian physicians.
Why is Taiwan focusing on such humanitarian missions?
To showcase Taiwan’s commitment to global aid and strengthen its soft power internationally.
