Joint Initiatives of DTCare UA and TNMU in Training Future Prosthetists-Orthotists

Given Ukraine’s urgent need for highly qualified specialists in the field of prosthetics and orthotics, the joint initiatives of DTCare UA and I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University in training future prosthetists-orthotists are of exceptional importance. These efforts lay a strong foundation for the provision of high-quality and accessible prosthetic-orthotic care, while contributing to the social reintegration of thousands of Ukrainians.

The cooperation between DTCare and TNMU aims to address the critical shortage of qualified prosthetics and orthotics professionals in Ukraine. DTCare provides significant support in terms of material and technical resources for the educational process. This includes assistance in transporting prosthetic-orthotic devices and other equipment to establish a simulation training laboratory for prosthetists-orthotists. Simulation-based training plays a key role in developing practical skills, enabling students to practice complex procedures and decision-making in a safe, controlled environment before working with real patients.

Additionally, DTCare, in collaboration with TNMU, is offering 14 scholarships for veterans to enroll in the Master’s Program in Prosthetics and Orthotics. The scholarship covers full tuition, provides free housing, necessary equipment, and specialized training from international prosthetics experts. Participants in the program also receive legal support, the opportunity to join the “Hero’s Compass” veteran retreat (Facebook link), are eligible for a modest monthly stipend, and receive assistance with employment after graduation.

This program empowers veterans to acquire a new profession and take part in restoring the lives of people in need of prosthetic care.

DTCare continues to expand partnerships to support veterans, children, and youth across Ukraine. At the end of June 2025, Courtney Robson, Program Manager at DTCare, visited Ternopil with the local team to strengthen partnerships and support initiatives.

The DTCare team participated in a roundtable discussion held at the Vocational College of I. Pulyuy Ternopil National Technical University, where local government, education, and civic sector representatives expressed interest in cooperating with DTCare on initiatives supporting veterans, children, and youth in Ukraine.

Tetiana Bakaliuk, academic coordinator of the Prosthetics and Orthotics program, presented the specific features of training prosthetists-orthotists and proposed further steps for deeper cooperation, including community-based rehabilitation for veterans and the creation of a scientific and educational innovation center for prosthetics and orthotics in Ternopil.

This cooperation effectively integrates international support, educational resources, and national policy to meet urgent social needs related to veterans’ rehabilitation and reintegration.

The partnership between TNMU and DTCare UA represents a key step in building a modern, interdisciplinary, and practice-oriented system of training in prosthetics and orthotics. These joint initiatives open new horizons for students, educators, and researchers by promoting innovation, integrating global best practices, and enhancing the quality of higher education in Ukraine.