Support Service “Azov Care” 12th Special Forces Brigade “Azov”

The AZOV.Support service began operations in September 2024. The main impetus for its creation was a resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine:
“Certain Issues Regarding the Implementation of Support Services for Military Personnel, Enlisted and Commanding Personnel of the Civil Protection Service, Police Officers, and Their Family Members” – Resolution No. 948 of August 20, 2024.

“Azov” became the first brigade to submit changes to its organizational and staffing structure. The fundamental task was to logically integrate the Support Service into the unit’s staff; it is officially part of the brigade’s Medical Service. Military personnel who are wounded or return from captivity undergo a lengthy process of treatment and rehabilitation. Throughout this process, service members are in constant contact with the brigade’s Medical Service. The treatment of our fighters is a continuous process. That is why, from the moment of injury or return from captivity until the moment of returning to active duty or civilian life, a fighter must be supported by a cohesive team based on consistent principles and approaches to treatment.

The most important aspect of AZOV.Support’s work is to help soldiers return to active duty or support their transition to civilian life. All other tasks stem from this primary goal. Injuries, the aftermath of captivity, long-term treatment, and the return to military service or civilian life—each of these stages requires not isolated solutions, but a comprehensive support system. That is why AZOV.Support consists of two departments:

• Medical Department – provides continuous and systematic support for wounded servicemen at all stages of treatment, based on clear criteria for the quality of medical care and the principles of evidence-based medicine, which form the foundation of our work. Medical support includes: case management of the entire treatment process, participation in the rational routing of soldiers, selection of the optimal rehabilitation and prosthetics center, timely diagnosis to expedite treatment, free access to necessary medications, consultations with specialized professionals, support for treatment abroad, communication with charitable foundations and civil society organizations, and medical support for soldiers returning from captivity.
• The Socialization and Reintegration Department works to ensure that servicemembers have as many diverse tools as possible to return to an active and fulfilling life. The department encompasses psychological support, non-formal education, leisure activities, adaptive sports, and integration.