Almost two years ago, the Myrnohrad Hospital in Donetsk region was evacuated to Orynyn village in Khmelnytskyi region. Medical staff transported the equipment, some of the staff moved with the hospital, and the hospital resumed operations in the premises of the former Orynyn District Hospital.

Decentralisation portal publishes a video report by the editorial team of Svoi.City on the relocation of the Myrnohrad Hospital from Donetsk region to Orynyn. It was produced for the “Svoi in a New Place” project, which focuses on businesses and municipal institutions that have relocated from eastern Ukraine.

This story is important for local governments because it shows how a relocated facility can meet the needs of the community where it treats patients. This requires suitable premises and coordinated action between local authorities, the facility’s management, businesses, and residents. In the case of Orynyn, the hospital not only resumed operations but also provided local residents with access to healthcare services and created jobs.

The building of the former Orynyn District Hospital had stood unused for many years. It was renovated, with wards and operating theatres fitted out, and an X-ray machine and other equipment were transported from Myrnohrad. The renovation cost over UAH 20 million. Charities, local businesspeople, farmers, and residents all contributed to the work. Part of the costs were covered by the Myrnohrad Military Administration and the hospital itself.

Before the relocation, around 600 people worked at the Myrnohrad hospital. The staff now numbers around 130. Doctors moved from Donetsk region, whereas some of the nurses and junior staff were recruited locally. The hospital treats patients from Orynyn and neighbouring communities. One of its key areas of work is urological care, which had been lacking in the region.

The video also shows how delays in finalising the premises can affect the community’s opportunities. Due to the protracted process, the hospital was unable to secure international aid in time for repairs and renovation. According to a representative of the hospital, the potential funding amounted to approximately UAH 20 million. It was also not possible to reach an agreement on the use of other buildings for a rehabilitation centre.

The hospital now plans to expand its operations and fit out separate premises for outpatient care and inpatient services.

For communities, this experience offers an opportunity to see how decisions on the transfer or lease of municipal property, timely agreements and cooperation with a relocated institution can influence the availability of services and the development of the territory.