In a small Ukrainian village near the front line, a striking purple and white ambulance, known as 'The Feminine Shuttle,' stands out. Women line up outside, awaiting medical care from Dr. Serhii Baksheiev, a devoted obstetrician and gynecologist who has conducted over 1,000 gynecological examinations since 2022. For many of these women, this is their first healthcare visit since the onset of war more than three years ago.
Dr. Baksheiev, 53, emphasizes the humanitarian aspect of his mission, stating it provides free medical assistance in areas where traditional healthcare services have disappeared due to the conflict. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Ukraine has seen over 1,940 attacks on healthcare facilities since Russia's invasion, making it an unprecedented humanitarian crisis.
Initially, Dr. Baksheiev worked from a bunker in Kyiv, delivering babies as bombs exploded around him. Inspired by his medical volunteer work on the front lines, he launched his mobile clinic after witnessing the devastation of hospitals in Kharkiv and Chernihiv. Regular examination tables were impossible to find, so he utilized anything available, often kneeling on the floor.
Today, 'The Feminine Shuttle' is equipped with essential medical tools, including an ultrasound machine. During short missions, Dr. Baksheiev and his team perform various examinations, including up to 80 colposcopies over two days—a procedure vital for checking for cancer signs. The team operates discreetly in occupied villages to carry out their crucial services before potentially being spotted.
Statistics reveal a 17% decline in ovarian cancer detection and a 10% drop in cervical cancer detection since 2020 due to the war’s impact on healthcare access. With many examinations revealing significant rates of malignant tumors, concerns are rising among health professionals. Dr. Ulana Supron, Ukraine's former health minister, warns of a ticking time bomb in public health, emphasizing the deep psychological strain the ongoing conflict places on individuals.
Despite his own cancer diagnosis in September 2024, Dr. Baksheiev remains committed to providing care to women across Ukraine. He underlines the dual role he plays, acting not just as a physician but also as a listener, many patients sharing their traumatic stories tied to wartime experiences. Through his tireless efforts, he sheds light on the essential healthcare needs of women in crisis.
