Ukrainian Hematologists Training in Ohio

Dec 20

Fighting cancer on the front lines for 40 years, Oncology Hematology Care (member of The US Oncology Network) is the largest independent provider of Oncology Care in the state of Ohio with over 100,000 patient visits per year.

The group offers cutting edge experience in cancer treatment, genetics, bone marrow transplant, cellular therapy, radiation therapy, research, gynecology/oncology and breast cancer surgery.

On December 1- 14, 2024, Dr. Randolf Drosick (OHC Group President) , Dr. David Waterhouse (Director of Early Phase Clinical Trials) and their amazing colleagues hosted 4 Ukrainian hematological oncologists for medical exchange focused on the sharing of best practices in the treatment of cancer and blood disorders. These are some of their feedback:

Dr. Drosick “It has been a pleasure to host these four physicians to our practice in Cincinnati. They are excellent clinicians, intellectually curious and have outstanding bedside manners. They have the type of compassion and knowledge that would make me want to hire them if they were available. Unfortunately, for them, the war between Russia has stymied their healthcare system. They don't have the treatment opportunities we have in America. Despite this, they have a broad understanding of the opportunities we have and would like to see them in practice.

This is not only a great academic experience for these physicians and the OHC; but also, one of the best humanitarian gestures that I have been fortunate to do. I think this says a lot since I've been to Africa, India, and Haiti on mission trips. I will miss them when they are gone, and we feel they have become part of the Oncology Hematology Care family.”

Dr. Waterhouse “I am sincerely grateful for the opportunity of sharing experiences with this delightful and talented group of Ukrainian providers. It is very grounding and humbling to hear of their experiences. We thought we were there to share our expertise, but we ended up being truly moved by their dedication and strength in such tough situations. They keep providing critical care despite enormous challenges.

I believe it's important to remember that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference. These gestures might seem small, but together they show a lot of compassion and support for these brave and committed professionals.”

Dr. Anna Prokhach (Ukrainian visitor): “This is an absolutely unique experience that I am grateful to go through. 5:30 AM, time to wake up, a busy work day ahead. We drink Starbucks coffee, eat an apple pie, get in the car and head to appointments. 7 AM, just the right time to start.

Ahead lies an appointment with more than 30 outpatient patients and complex cases in the hospital. In short free moments, we can talk about articles, clinical studies, the local healthcare system. I have the opportunity to see many options that are currently limited or unavailable at home. CAR-T therapy, various types of immunotherapy, essentially all types of targeted drugs.

There are many shared [between American and Ukrainian medical communities] pain points regarding patient risk factors, communication aspects, and so on. But amazing access of US colleagues to pharmaceutical resources and a large number of doctor's assistants have a very noticeable effect on the results of therapy and the ability to work to the maximum. “

On December 7-10, 2024, Ukrainian hematologists virtually joined the 66th American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting thanks to the generous support from the Society.

On December 16-21, 2024, the group attended Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center and Cleveland Maidan Association in Cleveland, OH, for learning, networking and advocacy.

Special thanks to OHC, US Oncology, Mauro Foundation, Cleveland Maidan Association and Audubon Bioscience for co-funding travel, lodging and other logistic expenses.

Many thanks to all the partners for supporting Ukrainian people fighting war with cancer in the midst of the brutal Russian aggression!