In a therapy gym at Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation, Yuliia Derevianko, a visiting clinician from Ukraine, discusses the use of electrical stimulation to improve arm strength with an Atrium Health therapist. The Ukrainian also explored several robotic devices designed to help patients relearn how to walk after a stroke or injury, technology. One of these robotic devices is available in only one other U.S. hospital, highlighting Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation’s leadership in advancing neurological care and its commitment to sharing innovations globally.
As they talk, Derevianko explains how rehabilitation is delivered back home in a country still grappling with the realities of war.
This moment is part of a broader collaboration
For two weeks, a team from Ukraine’s National Rehabilitation Center UNBROKEN traveled thousands of miles to train alongside therapists and physicians at Carolinas Rehabilitation. The goal: to exchange knowledge, refine techniques and strengthen patient care on both sides of the globe.
During the visit, the Ukrainian clinicians participated in hands-on learning focused on patient safety, clinical pathways, workforce training, teaching methods, evident-based practice, and more insights they can apply to enhance Ukraine’s rehabilitation system.
The partnership is part of Atrium Health’s Global Health Care program, which connects international partners to share best practices and improve clinical outcomes worldwide.
“This is more than just a visit, it’s a powerful exchange of expertise,” says Kristen Barboza, director of rehabilitation services at Carolinas Rehabilitation. “By working alongside Ukrainian care teams, we’re helping to strengthen their rehabilitation system while learning from their experience delivering care under extraordinary conditions. Together, we’re lifting lives and leading the way in recovery, a true reflection of the Advocate Health Purpose in action.”
Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation is the only U.S. rehabilitation hospital invited to join the World Health Organization’s World Rehabilitation Alliance. It has ranked among the nation’s top 10 rehabilitation hospitals for five consecutive years.
From Charlotte to Qatar to Ukraine, Carolinas Rehabilitation’s global partnerships demonstrate the power of connection and the future of recovery. With every exchange, they are building something bigger: a world where advanced rehabilitation is accessible, collaborative and grounded in shared purpose.
