Insights from the Field – Dr. Peter Derkach shares about his medical missions in Ukraine and Poland

The program is offered to older adults 55+ and is offered in-person or online via zoom. Funding for this program provided by the Seniors Community Grant from the Province of Ontario. Workshop is held in person at St. Demetrius Apartment 123 La Rose Avenue and virtually via zoom.

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“During my time providing care to Ukrainian soldiers who had sustained limb loss on the frontline, I was truly moved by their unshakable determination to return to duty and continue serving on the frontlines. The unwavering commitment and strength of these individuals have not only astounded me, but also reinforced my motivation to continue participating in medical missions in Ukraine. Unequivocally, the remarkable resilience of the Ukrainian soldiers serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit in the face of adversity.” Dr. Peter Derkach

In this talk, Dr. Derkach will:
• Discuss various aspects of his experience working with Canadian and Ukrainian physicians to enhance prosthetic care for patients with limb loss
• Share his experience with providing primary care to internally displaced Ukrainians who had fled from cities in Eastern and Southern Ukraine such as Kharkiv, Izum, Irpin, Bucha and Mariupol to seek refuge in Western Ukraine
• Share stories about the remarkable determination and resilience of the Ukrainian soldiers to whom he provided postoperative care
• Shed light on the “Unbroken” National Rehabilitation Centre Project and the Lviv Territorial Medical Union, including what is being done to provide better rehabilitation, particularly for individuals with amputated limbs
• Delve into the story behind the naming of the New Ward at the Regional Community Hospital in Czeladz, Poland, as “The Canada Ward”
• Share his insights about what life looks like for Ukrainians in Ukraine today

About Dr. Peter Derkach
Dr. Peter Derkach has served as the Medical Director of the Ukrainian Canadian Care Centre for more than 22 years, during which time he has exhibited exemplary professionalism, care, and dedication to his patients. His illustrious medical career includes diverse roles at West Park Health Care Centre, including Medical Director and Chief of Staff as well as St. Joseph’s Health Centre. Dr. Derkach’s contributions to patient care and leadership have been recognized with the prestigious provincial Ontario Long-Term Care Physician of the Year Award.

Throughout his career, Dr. Derkach has been involved in a variety of innovative research projects and studies, including the Canadian Study on Health and Ageing. This groundbreaking study followed over 10,000 seniors across Canada for a decade, resulting in a wealth of information on cognitive impairment and dementia in older adults. At the Ukrainian Canadian Care Centre, Dr. Derkach has been at the forefront of numerous innovative projects, including the CAMH-directed Integrated Care Pathway project aimed at enhancing the treatment of aggression and agitation in dementia patients. It is thanks to Dr. Derkach that the Ukrainian Canadian Care Centre has become a signatory to the CCNA (Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Ageing) and is one of the thirty long-term care institutions across Canada, that are prepared to participate in research in neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia.

Dr. Derkach’s commitment to patient care extends beyond Canada’s borders, as he has participated in several international medical missions to countries such as Ukraine, Poland and Nepal. His dedication to patient care is truly admirable, and he serves as an exemplar of a highly competent physician, visionary leader, and compassionate person.

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To register or more information please call 647-725-0843 or adenkova@stdemetrius.ca | www.stdemetrius.ca
About the Stay Connected Program: https://stdemetrius.ca/community-programs/