Strengthening PHC workforce capacity and skills in response to crisis in Ukraine

Abstract Drawing on the survey of PHC facilities (n = 86) in Ukraine and qualitative interviews, this presentation will describe evidence of the impacts of the war in Ukraine on the PHC workforce and service delivery models. The session will examine how changing population health needs - particularly in displaced and conflict-affected areas - require new approaches to workforce planning and resource allocation. It will share Ukraine's experience in strengthening PHC workforce capacity to respond to the growing burden of mental health conditions during the war, highlighting efforts to integrate mental health care into PHC and expand access to community-based services. A particular focus will be placed on large-scale training initiatives under the WHO Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP), aimed at equipping PHC workers with the skills to assess and manage common mental health disorders in PHC settings.