For many years in Odesa, patients with rare diseases have been provided with vital medications and therapeutic nutrition free of charge through the City Health Program.
In the city budget for 2025, 26.8 million UAH has been allocated for supplying medications to patients with rare diseases. This support from the city authorities significantly enhances the quality of life, preventing serious complications and alleviating financial burdens on families.
Within the framework of the "Health" program, 21 patients with phenylketonuria have received specialized mixtures for therapeutic nutrition — including 12 children and 9 adults. This has allowed patients who cannot consume regular food to obtain adequate nutrition, which is crucial during their development and health maintenance.
Regarding patients with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, 60 children and 50 adults have been provided with biological medications funded by the state budget of Ukraine. Additionally, three adult patients received expensive biological drugs financed by the city budget, which are not covered by state funds.
The provision of biological medications has improved patients' well-being, alleviated pain syndromes, and enabled children to actively participate in dance groups and sports sections.
During the first nine months of 2025, 175 patients with other rare diseases have been provided with medications, including 132 individuals with ankylosing spondylitis and 29 with psoriatic arthropathy.
Children with hemophilia in Odesa also receive free supplies of essential clotting factor medications, preventing serious complications and reducing the need for emergency hospitalizations. This year, 11 children with hemophilia are receiving treatment funded by the state budget.
Timely and accessible treatment has greatly improved the quality of life for patients with rare diseases, allowing them to lead fulfilling lives and halt the progression of disabilities.
