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Tag: expedition medicine

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Expedition Medicine

Dr Alex Rowe writes about his time on Jungle Medicine*

Mark HannafordUncategorisedNo Comments, ,

Pristine rain forest and verdant jungles are a huge attraction as travel locations. Recently I was lucky enough to travel to Costa Rica to instruct on the World Extreme Medicine Jungle Medicine* course where we spent seven days trekking and living in the jungle along the Pacuare River. There are many hazards that we need to anticipate when travelling in these areas, including sourcing safe water and avoiding local dangerous wildlife. One hazard that is ever present is insects-they are everywhere and determined to get their fill of humans. These insects don’t just cause bites, they can also transmit diseases such as malaria, dengue fever and tick-borne encephalitis. The density of insects is incredible and is something that is obvious every time you turn on your headtorch at night. So how do we discourage all these flying and crawling critters from enjoying Michelin starred human dining?

Bite avoidance is key and there are several areas to consider. The first is clothing. It is very tempting to wear shorts and a T-shirt given the heat, however, this is the first mistake many people make. Ensure you have lightweight, light coloured, quick-drying long-sleeved shirts and long trousers. Even better is to source clothing that is impregnated with the insect repellent Permethrin. Once you wearing your long clothing, button up the cuffs and tuck your trousers into your socks or wear gaiters. I made the mistake of not closing off the bottom of my trouser legs one day, and only realised the consequences when I felt dozens of painful biting pinpricks on the backs of my legs from the ants that had climbed onto my boots and made their way upwards.

Second is a good mosquito net– I never travel to tropical areas without one and the security if brings you when you are trying to sleep, knowing you don’t have to do the naked run to find the whining mosquito that is after my blood. This also applies to hammocks- ideally, if you are sleeping in a hammock, use one with a built-in mosquito net. There is nothing nicer than getting into a hammock knowing you have an impregnable mosquito net, and you can go to sleep safe in the knowledge that despite all the noise, they cannot get to you.

Thirdly is insect repellent. I am an insect attractant and use as many methods as possible to avoid getting bitten, however, some people appear to have good results from citronella sprays and wrist bands. It may be they are just not as tasty to the critters! The gold standard repellent is DEET, and this comes in varying concentrations up to 100% Max Strength Kill Anything Jungle Juice. People vary in their tolerance to DEET, and it is worth experimenting with different strengths to see what your skin will accept. It is worth spraying clothing as well as any bare skin, concentrating on the gaps at wrists, ankles and neck. Other repellents to consider are permethrin and picaridin based, and it is thought these may be better for repelling ticks.

If you do get bitten, you can take a regular dose of a pharmacy over the counter antihistamine tablet. These reduce itching and inflammation, as well as being useful to take regularly if you are in an insect-laden area and want to avoid strong bite reactions.

Get out there and enjoy these incredible places, and stay comfortable in the knowledge you have done everything to avoid those irritating and sometimes harmful bites.

Author:
Dr Alexander Rowe
Medical Director, World Extreme Medicine
Clinical Lead and Honorary Clinical Lecturer, Postgraduate Masters Programme in Extreme Medicine, University of Exeter
World Extreme Medicine Conference Speaker

*First published on Lifesystems website
*Jungle Medicine forms a module on the International Diploma/ MSc in Extreme Medicine offered by Exeter University Medical School
*CPD provided by the Royal College of Surgeons (Edinburgh)

Expedition Medicine in the Jungle

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Former Special Forces Jason ‘Foxy’ Fox joins the WEMski faculty!

Mark HannafordWEMSkiNo Comments, ,

Source: Channel 4

WOW… WEMski 2018 really is shaping up to be one incredible event; not only have we snapped up Eddie ‘the Eagle’ Edwards, but we’re excited to announce that WEMski will also be playing host to ex-Special Forces veteran Jason ‘Foxy’ Fox.

Recognised most widely for instructing civilians through the SAS selection process on the Channel 4 reality series SAS: Who Dares Wins, Jason’s illustrious career began when he was 16 years old. After enlisting in the Royal Marine Commandos, he then went on to pass the gruelling 6-month selection process to enter the Special Forces, where he spent the remainder of his time in the military as an SF operator for the Special Boat Service (SBS). During his time with the forces, he conducted numerous roles across real-time operations across the globe, ranging from Sergeant Team Leader, dog handler, demolitions expert and combat swimmer, to counter terrorist expert and bodyguard, before leaving in 2012.

Jason’s time is now split between being a TV and film consultant, and the charity he co-founded called Rock 2 Recovery, which helps armed forces personnel, veterans and their families in dealing with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). He also travels around the world as a keynote speaker, as well as running a company that provides Special Forces experiences to the corporate world.

This wealth of experience will be invaluable to those attending the WEMski event, to which Jason will be bringing his vast real-world knowledge. Delegates will learn about the physical and psychological challenges in extreme pressurised environments, building emotional resilience in the face of adversity, the virtues of strong leadership in hostile locations, plus much more.

We are very excited to have Jason on board this January, and we’re sure that those of you attending will learn more than you bargained for… though don’t fret, that won’t include discovering whether you can undergo the punishing Special Forces selection process.

You will, however, be part of a select gathering of people for a week of inspiration, networking, learning and a healthy dose of ski-therapy on the slopes!

Book your WEMski ticket today!

If you are a non-skier there are lessons to be booked and a host of other pretty amazing facilities to keep you busy!

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Expecting the unexpected

Mark HannafordExpedition & Wilderness Medicine, , , ,

Expecting the unexpected, writes WEM Medical Director Dr Alex RoweExtreme Medicine

In life one thing is certain you will encounter situations that you could not anticipate no matter how much you plan.  In expedition medicine one of the challenges is dealing with these when away from the security of a well staffed and secure environment, in fact you could say that meeting these challenges is part of what makes it so interesting.

Imagine you are travelling with an expedition group as their doctor. You are travelling to Nepal to undertake a Himalayan high altitude trek everything is planned meticulously. You’ve undertaken medical kit sourcing, researched the local area and formulated evacuation plans, revised management of high altitude conditions, spoken to local guides and are happy that you have all the emergency communications systems you need.

You are driving along the mountain pass and there is a sudden, loud bang and the coach in front of yours swerves, breaking through a rickety crash barrier, careering down the bank into a small river where the coach rolls onto its side. The inside of the coach is chaos with debris everywhere and you can hear the screams as you survey the scene. You also know the nearest hospital is three hours’ drive away.

Your mind switches into processing mode to analyse this chaotic scene, formulate a plan, delegate then get on with the job- it’s what we’ve always done and somehow our minds find a powerful focus in the most dramatic situations. Key to this is organising the response to achieve the best outcome for the most people.  Decision making is at the core of how we practice medicine and we base these decisions on previous experience, prior learning, teams we have worked with, great leaders and a certain X factor originating from common sense and lateral thinking.

Another aspect of medical training is the emphasis on the role of the team and in general most doctors are capable of functioning as valuable team members because we are taught the importance of listening, empathy and compassion when we are looking after our patients and how to treat them as human beings, rather than just numbers with problems and solutions. As our medical personalities evolve, our human personalities are also shaped.

I started my medical career in anaesthetics and emergency medicine before going into general practice and the longer I practice medicine, the more I understand the importance of communication and consultation skills. I also work as a pre hospital care doctor where empathy, compassion and communication has never been more important as we manage major trauma. We are taught that we can even ease pain purely with compassion, kindness and talking to our patient. Drugs help of course!

So how does this fit into Expedition and Extreme Medicine? Groups of people are fascinating to watch and interact with. Put those people into more challenging environments and out of their comfort zones, and suddenly true colours are revealed as the sub conscious primitive brain takes over and starts to govern what is shown to the outside world. As an expedition medic, we are in the same challenging environment, yet how do we control ourselves when we are undertaking the same challenges as the people involved, then switching into doctor mode when we are as tired, hungry and possibly as scared as the rest of the group.  Conventional medical training can give us the foundation to operate in this challenging environment.

I have been working with a great team developing the Human Factors Module for the Extreme Medicine Post Graduate Programme. Human factors are what allow us to perform and do our job when others are struggling. Self-awareness, situational awareness and group awareness allow us to process the global picture when groups are under pressure, and should enable us to stand back from the scene and make functional and rational decisions. We are not alone though and it is a skill to recognise and utilise the group members who can work with us. Task and environment specific skills such as management of altitude illness will always be vital, however it’s the softer skills that help us stand out, perform as accepted leaders and take control when stuff starts hitting the fan.

Open doors to extend your professional interests and career.  Visit www.expeditionmedicine.co.uk  for a portfolio of training opportunities, like no other.

Extreme Medicine

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Extreme Medicine in Scotland

Mark HannafordExpedition & Wilderness Medicine, , , , ,

Scotland – world-renowned for scientific medical excellence thanks to pioneers including microbiologist Alexander Fleming, the chemist Thomas Graham, best known for his leading work in dialysis and Joseph Lister, the “Father of Antiseptic Surgery” transformed surgical practice – will be home to a pioneering medical conference this November.

Taking place from Friday November 18 – 21, at Dynamic Earth, Holyrood Gait, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS the World Extreme Medicine Expo involves over 100 world-renowned medical experts – from surgeons and paramedics to astronauts – sharing their specialty, medical practice conducted away from the comfort of a typical hospital setting.

Four core disciplines are covered – disaster and humanitarian medicine, extreme, expedition and space medicine, human endurance and sports medicine plus prehospital medicine.

World Extreme Medicine Founder Mark Hannaford said, “Our mission is to break down barriers, build bridges and make connections within the extreme medicine community. We are honoured to host the most incredible line up of speakers who are willing to share their learnings, working at the very top of their profession.

“The event is also an amazing showcase for the wonderful diversity of careers in medicine and proof that a fulfilling career can be found outside of a traditional hospital environment. My belief is that there’s never been a more exciting time to work in medicine and the fascinating presentations will prove that point.”

Speakers include the elite sports expert, Edinburgh-based DrAndrew Murray who has worked for the Olympic, Paralympic and Commonwealth games. He ran 4,300 km from Scotland to the Sahara Desert and completed a husky trek in -40C in Outer Mongolia.

An exploration of the challenges faced when a solar storm hits your space shuttle will be examined by Dr Michael Barratt who spent 199 days as the Chief Medical Officer on the micheal barrettInternational Space Station. He is passionate about the adapted physiology of people in space.

Disaster Medicine is a more down to earth theme, which is largely covered on the first day of the conference. Mark Hannaford continues, “We have speakers from many aid agencies including Natalie Roberts from Médecins Sans Frontières and Arij Boureslan-Skelton from Save The Children. We’re pleased to have many speakers representing UK-Med, the UK’s disaster and emergency trauma response team, founded by Tony Redmond,who’s also speaking. Speakers, including Sean Hudson, Eoin Walker, Chrissy and Roger Alcock have deployed with UK-Med in response to disasters including the earthquake in Nepal and Typhoon Haiyan**.** We have chosen Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) as our charity of the year and the leading vascular surgeon Dr David Nottwill speak about their work on the first day. Our speakers will share human stories behind the traumatic news headlines.”

The prehospital care programme involves an incredible case of a young woman who suffered a coronary heart attack while walking in London’s Oxford Street. Luckily for her, senior paramedic Eoin Walker from London’s Ambulance Cycle Response Team was close by and saved her life. There will not be a dry eye in the auditorium when Zoë Hitchcock tells her life-changing story.

Mark Hannaford concludes, “We are thrilled to be bringing 100 speakers to Edinburgh at an exciting event attended by 800 doctors, nurses, paramedics, surgeons and medical students. New medical research findings will be shared, so that the World Extreme Medicine event will be making history, following in the footsteps of the scientific giants who are now household names.”Extreme Medicine founder Mark Hannaford

About World Extreme Medicine Expo

Location: Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS

Dates: Friday November 18 to Monday November 21

Ticket information: http://www.extrememedicineexpo.com/events/event/extreme-medicine-conference-expo-2016-early/ Prices from £124.17 (for one day) to £825.00 (for all four days)

Website: http://www.extrememedicineexpo.com/

Videos: Being a Doctor Just Became the Most Exciting Career https://vimeo.com/170846844

Extreme and Wilderness Medicine – Our Story https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhPrFGFIFXI

Ends

High resolution imagery and interviews are available on request. Journalists are invited to attend the conference too and are asked to register their interest as early as possible.

Media information provided by Famous Publicity. For more information, please contact Tina Fotherby at 07703 409 622 or tina@famouspublicity.com, Tabitha Monkhouse at 0333 344 2341 or tabitha@famouspublicity.com or Adam Betteridge at 0333 344 2341 or adam@famouspublicity.com.

About the World Extreme Medicine Expo:

The World Extreme Medicine Conference and Expo will take place at Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS from 18 – 21 November 2016. Bringing together many of the world’s brightest medical minds, it will focus four core disciplines:

· Disaster and humanitarian medicine

· Extreme, expedition and space medicine

· Human endurance and sports medicine

· Prehospital medicine.

The exposition’s mission is to break down barriers, build bridges and make connections within the extreme medicine community.

The term ‘Extreme Medicine’ was first coined by Mark Hannaford and Sean Hudson as an umbrella term for these extra-clinical medical practices.

Contact Name: Tina Fotherby
Role: Founder
Company: Famous Publicity Ltd
Contact Email: click to reveal e-mail
Contact Phone: 03333442341
Company Website: http://www.extrememedicineexpo.com/
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Incredible course faculty, new WEM clothing and more!

Mark HannafordExpedition & Wilderness Medicine, , , , ,

Extreme Medicine

GLOBAL • EXPLORATION • SPACE

WEM t-shirts are on their way

We’re finalising a few details and expecting our final samples in the next week.

Four awesome designs will be available across all sizes for in both men’s and women’s fittings. Whether you’re heading to the pub or out on an adventure out t-shirts will be suitable for all your adventures.

There’s one favour we ask, take your t-shirts everywhere and send us some pics! We want to see them up mountains, in the middle of the oceans and everywhere in between!

To get your t-shirt in the first run send us your email address here.

Zika Virus Challenge Grant

The Brazilian-Israeli-British team raised over $29,000 USD and just won the $10,000 International Zika Virus Challenge Grant, to develop a rapid diagnostic test for Zika.

Congratulations to the Zika Innovation team in Brazil including EWM Faculty, Dr Alexander Kumar

“It’s been very hard seeing and hearing stories first-hand from mothers and families whose lives have been affected by the Zika virus. A test that is reliable and affordable, but is not complicated in that it could be performed by a twelve year old, living in a resource limited setting, is a potential game changer for doctors and patients worldwide.”

Nick Bird to lead Dive Medicine!

Following Dr Nick Bird’s fantastic presentation at Extreme Expo ’15, he will now be leading the delivery of CME content on our stunning Diving & Marine Medicine course in Raja Ampat this September.

Nick currently holds two positions at Duke University, he’s a Board Member at the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society and Regional Medical Director at Duke Urgent Care. Prior to this Nick has an impressive background which includes CEO of Divers Alert Network (DAN).

This course is a truly once in a lifetime opportunity. For more information get in touch.

Pre-hospital Trauma

The pre-hospital environment can push medics out of their comfort zone and offers incredibly rewarding work.

With no two situations the same, decision making is challenged and situational awareness is key.

Join our Pre-hospital Trauma Care workshop this May and enhance your current skills or simply introduce yourself into this challenging area of medicine.

Intensive Care Medicine

Free evidence-based ICM courses at the Harefield Hospital in London, run by NHS Consultant for NHS trainees.

If this sounds like your kind of thing click HERE for more information.
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New Expedition Medicine Course in Slovenia

Mark HannafordExpedition & Wilderness Medicine, , , , , , ,
Kicking off the year with a big announcement!
We’re super excited to bring you the first major announcement of the year – keep reading to find out the latest developments at EWM.

2016 is shaping up to be a great year and while we can’t give away too much just now, there are more big announcements on the way.

Supporting medical professionals

We’ve previously shared blogs discussing the issue of PTSD in Paramedics / EMTs in the hope that discussion can improve awareness and lead to greater support. Earlier this week we shared an article from the Guardian recounting one doctor’s experience with depression and feelings of suicide.

The reaction to this issue has been huge and we’ve since been approached by a number of people who have wanted to privately share their experiences with us.

If anyone has a story to share, has written a blog or simply knows of great support services available, please get in touch and we’d be delighted to use our many platforms to spread awareness to bring about better care for those who dedicate their lives to helping others.

Some useful resources we have found so far are:
Support 4 Doctors
BMA Counselling and Doctor Advisor Service 

Keeping in touch

We know from experience that sometimes our emails don’t reach you and end up in junk mailboxes, to solve this problem simply save ‘admin@expedition-medicine.com’ to your email address book.

If you’re booked on to a course or have sent in an enquiry and don’t seem to have heard from us, please drop us an email or give us a ring…we’re always keen to hear from you!

New Expedition Medicine Course in Slovenia

We’re taking our ever-popular UK based Expedition & Wilderness Medicine to the stunning Lake Bohinj, Slovenia, we can’t wait to get stuck in!

We’ll hold the course over five days and plan to take the challenge and excitement to the next level including, a night under the stars, more outdoor skills sessions and some surprise challenges.

Our ever popular workshops will be extended, allowing more in-depth learning with greater opportunity for Q&A sessions. Mornings are dedicated to stimulating lectures exploring many areas of expedition medicine, equipping you with the knowledge you need to tackle remote and austere environments with confidence.

For more information on this fantastic new course, get in touch with us HERE.

Where next

Our Pre-hospital Trauma Care workshop in London kicks off the year with two days of hands-on learning in London’s premier pre-hospital training facility. With a heavy focus on Crew Resource Management, you’ll come away a new understanding of how to best manage teams in extremely stressful environments when the chips are down.

Polar Medicine returns to Norway with a specialist faculty  including one of the world’s leading experts in frostbite management, Professor Chris Imray. This highly practical course will challenge and excite you everyday leaving you better equipped to face the challenges of cold weather environments. 

Keswick is the next location for our UK based EWM course and we can’t wait to get there. If you’re looking to put the fun back in to medicine, then look no further!
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A world first. Internationals Postgraduate Medical Degree offered in collaboration with Extreme Medicine and the University of Exeter, a World Top 100 University.

Mark HannafordExpedition & Wilderness Medicine, , , , , , , ,
A world first.  The Extreme Medicine International Medical Degree programme offered in collaboration with Extreme Medicine and the University of Exeter, a World Top 100 University.
International Postgraduate Medical Degree Program

We are extremely proud to be working with The University of Exeter, a world top 100 university, to deliver a credible and academically sound International postgraduate medical degree program in Extreme Medicine.

Patrons. Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Dr David Nott.

The first intake of students is scheduled for September 2016, to mirror the academic year.

Clinical governance and demonstration of core skills and competencies are core values of modern medicine and we have developed our Extreme Medicine Diploma & Masters Programme to fit with this. There is an expected consensus paper from the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh, and the Faculty of Prehospital Care, detailing expected competencies for providing travel and expedition medicine. The Masters Programme is designed around this curriculum for the first sixty credits and will give you a high-quality postgraduate medical diploma and MSc qualification.

Here at Extreme Medicine, we are passionate about exploring the breadth and depth of Expedition, Wilderness and Extreme Medicine and the Medical Degree Program will allow you to build a bespoke programme to fit with your interests and passion.  Go to Exeter University Medical School
The Lancet Medical Press
Recent Lancet articles have highlighted to growing interest in Extreme Medicine.

‘I am delighted that these two papers are now in press. I think they reflect many of the sentiments and thrust of the hugely successful Extreme Medicine Conferences.’   Professor Chris Imray.
So what does the Post Graduate Medical Diploma/ Masters Programme in Extreme Medicine involve?
A Post Graduate Masters programme is made up of 180 credits earned over three years. This is divided into individual years of 60 credits each. Each credit in any reputable university-based Masters Programme is equivalent to 10 hours of learning time. These hours include all reading, written work and practical work. Let’s break this down more into the individual years.
Year 1 – Post Graduate Certificate in Extreme Medicine This gives the first 60 credits and on finishing this you will be awarded The Post Graduate Certificate in Extreme Medicine (PgCert Extreme Medicine). You will have an in-depth knowledge of expedition medicine and how to reflect on your own work and also critically appraise that of others. This is the qualification that will demonstrate a sound knowledge of Expedition Medicine, and as regulation tightens, you will be able to use this to prove the required level of knowledge and skill. Some people will choose to stop at this point however, we anticipate most students will want to progress to the Diploma and MSc levels.
This first year is made up of the following core modulesIntroductory weekend module
This will be a key weekend to set the scene and define the learning skills needed, the work to be covered in the year and the structure of the course. This will either be based in the University of Exeter or form a preface to the Expedition and Wilderness Medicine course below; a detail to be confirmed.

 

Expedition and Wilderness Medicine Course module – 30 Credits
This module will provide half the credits for the PgCert and forms the bulk of the knowledge base. Students will attend a UK based Expedition and Wilderness Medicine Course at a venue of their choice. The venues are the Lake District, Snowdonia and Dartmoor; all stunning locations.

This course will be lecture and practical based and will give the basic overview needed. You will then be able to use this framework to undertake self-directed learning to expand your knowledge and learn to critically think about expedition planning and logistics. The key ethos behind Masters level learning is to be able to interpret information, critically appraise it then make informed and reasoned arguments in presented work. You will be able to demonstrate this approach in the 5000-word project where you will be given a choice of hypothetical scenarios to plan for. Successful completion of this project will award 30 credits. This will need to be an in-depth piece of work that shows a high level of thinking and planning and should go beyond just the medicine.

UK Based Trauma Course – 15 credits
The leading cause of injury and death overseas is trauma, in particular, road traffic collisions. Trauma care at the roadside is a vital skill to have and this will be taught on the established four-day Trauma Course. This trauma course is also accredited by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.

The course will cover all the important skills for trauma management at the roadside. As part of this, you will be given a short evidence research project to undertake on one aspect of trauma care that would be relevant to being an overseas medic.

Leadership and Situational Awareness Module – 15 credits
This module has been designed to provide challenge in a supportive and formative team environment. This will be a weekend on Dartmoor and will be a rolling set of overlapping challenges designed to test the application of knowledge, lateral thinking and resourcefulness. It will run from Saturday morning to Sunday afternoon including an overnight on the moor. Expect the unexpected. Following this, there will be debriefing and then a short written piece. There is no pass or fail on this, however, the value will come from personal insights and reflection on these and how to apply your learning to self-development.

Year 2 – Post-Graduate Medical Diploma in Extreme Medicine – 60 credits
Using the skills you have developed in year one, you will be able to choose elective modules to learn about specific areas of Expedition Medicine in more depth. Prime examples would be High Altitude Medicine, Polar Medicine, Dive Medicine, Tropical Medicine, Medicine in Hot Environments, Leadership and Situational Awareness, Logistics, Disaster Relief, Global Health and Prehospital Trauma Care. Ideally, you would plan some form of practical experience in the fields you choose.

Each module will be assessed on your learning log and a written piece of 5000 words for each module. On successful completion of this module, you will be awarded the International Diploma in Extreme Medicine from the University of Exeter and Extreme Medicine.

This is a higher level postgraduate qualification and will allow you to demonstrate in-depth knowledge in your chosen fields.

Year 3 – MSc in Extreme Medicine – 60 credits
This is the final year and will be 60 credits based on a relevant research project, a significant overseas project or challenge.  You will be given the opportunity to present your project at the annual highly acclaimed Extreme Medicine Conference.

Additional information
The international postgraduate Diploma & Masters Programme in Extreme Medicine is delivered by Extreme Medicine and The University of Exeter Medical School in partnership. Participants will be students of Exeter University and will have access to the facilities and resources.

The programme is designed for people who work busy jobs and a good proportion of the work can be completed in your own time at home.   Find out about this medical diploma program.

There will be tutor support by email and also bi-monthly reviews of progress and learning logs.
Expedition & Wilderness Medicine Training
Wilderness Medical Training in the UK
Expedition Medicine in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco
Malawi

With our thanks, on behalf of Extreme Medicine,

Mark Hannaford FRGS FRSA, Managing Director, Expedition & Wilderness Medicine.
Dr Alex Rowe, Medical Director, Expedition & Wilderness Medicine.
Dr Malcolm Hilton, Hospital Sub-Dean, University of Exeter Medical School
Annual International World Extreme Medicine Conference
Copyright © 2016 Expedition & Wilderness Medicine, All rights reserved.
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LANCET ARTICLES ON EXTREME MEDICINE & EXPEDITION MEDICINE

Mark HannafordExpedition & Wilderness Medicine, , , , , , , , , ,

LANCET ARTICLES ON EXTREME MEDICINEProf. Chris Imray on Everest

‘I am delighted that these two papers are now in press. I think they reflect many of the sentiments and thrust of the hugely successful Extreme Medicine Conferences.’   Professor Chris Imray..

We’re delighted that long standing friends and collaborators of EWM, Professor Chris Imray successfully co-authored two relevant and contemporary articles in the Extreme Medicine series, published in the latest issue of “The Lancet.” By sharing their thoughts and experiences, Chris Imray  and his co-authors have produced a primary academic reference for  Extreme Medicine, reinforcing all that we here at Expedition & Wilderness Medicine have advocated for years.  The Lancet articles now give “medicine in the extremes”  the academic credibility and international platform for discussion, this emergent sub-speciality so rightly deserves.

Mark Hannaford, Managing Director.

Extreme Medicine Conference

lancet article on Extreme Medicine lancet 3 lancet article on Extreme Medicine

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LANCET ARTICLES ON EXTREME MEDICINE & EXPEDITION MEDICINE

Mark HannafordExpedition & Wilderness Medicine, , , , , , , , , ,

LANCET ARTICLES ON EXTREME MEDICINEProf. Chris Imray on Everest

‘I am delighted that these two papers are now in press. I think they reflect many of the sentiments and thrust of the hugely successful Extreme Medicine Conferences.’   Professor Chris Imray..

We’re delighted that long standing friends and collaborators of EWM, Professor Chris Imray successfully co-authored two relevant and contemporary articles in the Extreme Medicine series, published in the latest issue of “The Lancet.” By sharing their thoughts and experiences, Chris Imray  and his co-authors have produced a primary academic reference for  Extreme Medicine, reinforcing all that we here at Expedition & Wilderness Medicine have advocated for years.  The Lancet articles now give “medicine in the extremes”  the academic credibility and international platform for discussion, this emergent sub-speciality so rightly deserves.

Mark Hannaford, Managing Director.

Extreme Medicine Conference

lancet article on Extreme Medicine lancet 3 lancet article on Extreme Medicine

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20% off entry to Extreme Medicine ’15 as our way of saying ‘thank you for marching’

Mark HannafordExpedition & Wilderness Medicine, , , , , , ,
Junior doctors take the streets in London
With junior doctors taking to the streets in what must be one of the most articulate, well dressed and peaceful demonstrations ever we are glad to be presenting the Extreme Medicine Conference a week later to illustrated that the NHS is not the only option career-wise

World-class speakers, recruiters and inspiring presentations the conference offers real access to a new world of medicine.

Book your place now.  For the next 48 hours, unfortunately not combinable with other offers. in support of our junior doctors are offering 20% off entry to Extreme Medicine ’15 as our way of saying ‘thank you for marching’

WEMEEXPO15SPECIAL20 – use this code at checkout
‘Perhaps the most interesting medical conference I know of’   Senior health correspondent – mainstream media outlet in conversation..
Thank you for marching

A thank you..

For the next 48 hours, unfortunately not combinable with other offers, in support of our junior doctors are offering 20% off entry to Extreme Medicine ’15 as our way of saying ‘thank you for marching’

WEMEEXPO15SPECIAL20 – use this code at checkout
Rob Holden & Ebola

Extreme Medicine is like no medical conference you’ve ever attended.
Extreme Medicine Conference London

BMJ ‘Image of the Week’

Extreme Medicine ’15 image chosen for BMJ ‘image of the week’  We are super proud to see one of the MSF Gallery images for this year’s conference featured this week

We are always grateful of the BMJ’s support for our conference and we are really looking forward to seeing them at this years gathering.

 

There are still limited tickets available – book yours now..
Kunduz & MSF

Kunduz

New Session;  Board member for MSF (UK) Dr Javid Abdelmoneim will be speaking about MSF’s reaction to the bombing of their registered medical facility in Kunduz
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20% off entry to Extreme Medicine '15 as our way of saying 'thank you for marching'

Mark HannafordExpedition & Wilderness Medicine, , , , , , ,
Junior doctors take the streets in London
With junior doctors taking to the streets in what must be one of the most articulate, well dressed and peaceful demonstrations ever we are glad to be presenting the Extreme Medicine Conference a week later to illustrated that the NHS is not the only option career-wise

World-class speakers, recruiters and inspiring presentations the conference offers real access to a new world of medicine.

Book your place now.  For the next 48 hours, unfortunately not combinable with other offers. in support of our junior doctors are offering 20% off entry to Extreme Medicine ’15 as our way of saying ‘thank you for marching’

WEMEEXPO15SPECIAL20 – use this code at checkout
‘Perhaps the most interesting medical conference I know of’   Senior health correspondent – mainstream media outlet in conversation..
Thank you for marching

A thank you..

For the next 48 hours, unfortunately not combinable with other offers, in support of our junior doctors are offering 20% off entry to Extreme Medicine ’15 as our way of saying ‘thank you for marching’

WEMEEXPO15SPECIAL20 – use this code at checkout
Rob Holden & Ebola

Extreme Medicine is like no medical conference you’ve ever attended.
Extreme Medicine Conference London

BMJ ‘Image of the Week’

Extreme Medicine ’15 image chosen for BMJ ‘image of the week’  We are super proud to see one of the MSF Gallery images for this year’s conference featured this week

We are always grateful of the BMJ’s support for our conference and we are really looking forward to seeing them at this years gathering.

 

There are still limited tickets available – book yours now..
Kunduz & MSF

Kunduz

New Session;  Board member for MSF (UK) Dr Javid Abdelmoneim will be speaking about MSF’s reaction to the bombing of their registered medical facility in Kunduz
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Junior contracts getting you down? See what Katie Owens did with her medical training!

Mark HannafordExpedition & Wilderness Medicine, , , , ,

Why expedition medicine is a valuable trek into the unknown

Authors: Katie Ovens

Publication date:  22 Sep 2015  BMJ Careers

Alumni of Expedition Medicine, Wales

As an expedition doctor in Tanzania Katie Ovens gained useful clinical and managerial experience

Throughout my foundation years I knew that I wanted to have a year to broaden my knowledge of medicine and to gain experience in an entirely new setting, outside hospital, before continuing on to specialty training.

At the end of my first year of medical school I volunteered for a charity in Zambia for four weeks promoting health in remote communities, and I also spent one month in Sarawak General Hospital in Borneo for my medical elective. Both of these trips gave me an insight into working abroad and provided the opportunity to combine my passion for travel with my interest in medicine. As a qualified doctor I was keen to work abroad more independently, where my skills would be fully used and I would have exposure to more tropical medicine.

My introduction to expedition medicine was a four day course in Plas-y-Brenin in Wales. The course incorporated lectures, practical sessions, and small group sessions on common medical issues; advice for working on expeditions; and specific skills required for expeditions (such as rope skills and navigation). The inspirational speakers had an extensive knowledge of the field.

Raleigh International

BMJ article about expedition medicine in Tanzania - BMJ Careers

BMJ article about expedition medicine in Tanzania – BMJ Careers

The week after the course I took part in Raleigh International’s gruelling assessment weekend. Raleigh International is a sustainable development charity, giving young people the chance to work in developing countries. During the assessment weekend I had to complete multiple tasks based on expedition scenarios to demonstrate my ability to lead a team while also working as a team member. This was both physically and mentally challenging.

Three days later I accepted the dual role of volunteer manager and medic in Tanzania for 13 weeks. As a volunteer manager I was responsible for supporting a group of young people carrying out sustainable development projects and trekking. I also helped set up the trek projects and ensured the success of sustainable development projects on site.

Before deploying to Tanzania I attended the Raleigh training weekend for volunteer managers. This training mainly focused on sustainable development, how to provide life coaching to young people on an informal basis, and the main aims and conduct of the charity. There was no specific medical training but pre-reading was provided on common medical problems in expedition and tropical medicine. Recognising that I was likely to come across conditions I may never have seen, I also learnt some specific expedition medicine by reading expedition medicine books. The Oxford Handbook of Expedition and Wilderness Medicine is particularly good.[1]

Working as a volunteer manager

After arriving in Tanzania all volunteer managers had a two week induction before the volunteers arrived. During this time we were given final training and helped to set up the projects. Each expedition is split into three 19 day phases and during the induction phase all of the volunteer managers gave their preferences on whether they would like to work on a particular project or whether they would enjoy leading a trek.

I was allocated to work on a project that brought clean water to a remote village. In the second phase I was the field base medic, and, finally, leader of a 20 day trek in the Usambara mountains. Setting up projects included casualty evacuation planning, risk assessments, route planning, meeting project partners, and locating houses suitable for homestay. The evacuation planning was very detailed and included visits to local hospitals, dispensaries, and airstrips to plan for all eventualities. In addition to being able to take patients to these local facilities we also had email and phone advice available from the UK through Raleigh.

I underestimated the volunteer manager role before going to Tanzania, but it turned out to be an incredibly rewarding aspect of my trip. I gave daily feedback to members of my team, helping them to think through important life decisions and plan for the future. I was also responsible for the success of the projects and the safety of the team round the clock. Having responsibility for a team of young people aged 17 to 24 did mean at times that I had the role of mum, from teaching how to chop onions to saying things like “be careful,” “don’t get too near the edge,” or “please don’t hold the machete like that.”

During induction, medics teach first aid and general expedition health to managers and volunteers, as some groups do not have a medic. Education was fundamental throughout the expedition and needed to be tailored to the particular environment. For example, living with families meant that hand hygiene and bleaching utensils was essential to reduce the chances of contracting gastroenteritis.

As field base medic I travelled to groups without a medic and held medical clinics in remote locations, as well as giving telephone advice, which was a new and rewarding challenge. The main medical problems I encountered were diarrhoea and vomiting, fever, dehydration, rashes, skin infections, wound care, scorpion stings, and mental health problems. Expeditions can be stressful so this latter problem was common, ranging from homesickness to severe depression.

Washing a volunteer’s vomit covered clothes and bleaching floors to help reduce a diarrhoea and vomiting outbreak were jobs I hadn’t anticipated. On site you are often the only Raleigh medic available and your nearest medical colleague can be several hours away. However, I was always able to contact the field base medic to discuss patients and get a second opinion (either via mobile, or satellite phone if there was poor reception). Being able to discuss patients with other medics meant that I never felt isolated, and preparing detailed casualty evacuation plans reassured me that I knew how I could get to the nearest health facility if needed.

Foot care

During trekking, foot care and general hygiene advice was essential. In the first few days of the trek we covered feet, hips, and shoulders with a good quality zinc oxide tape to prevent blisters. We also decided to implement daily foot siestas where everyone had to wash, dry, and talc their feet, and as a result we avoided any major foot problems.

I missed out on the usual highlights of a trip to Tanzania such as a safari, climbing Kilimanjaro, or a visit to the island of Zanzibar. However, I had an incredible experience working with inspirational people. I gained valuable experience as a leader and working alongside others in a management team. As I was a similar age to some of the volunteers, one of my main challenges was gaining the authority to lead the team.

I learnt to be flexible in difficult and remote environments, and gained independence as a clinician. After this expedition I studied for the diploma in tropical medicine in Liverpool, which covered tropical medicine, child health, parasitology, and public health. I hope to use what I learnt from the diploma and my experience in Tanzania in future expeditions and as a trainee doctor in the United Kingdom, where I hope to specialise in genitourinary medicine.

What to consider before going on a trip

It is important to consider the type of expedition before applying for jobs. Recognising your experience and limitations is fundamental. I had not worked as a doctor outside a hospital or general practice setting so wanted to work with a charity that was well set up in terms of risk assessment, casualty evacuation plans, and support in the UK from abroad.

I also wanted to work with a charity that supplied the medical kit and had other doctors on the expedition. I preferred jobs where the doctor was also a manager so that I could challenge myself not only medically but also on an individual level.

It is important to factor in buying general kit such as walking boots, a rucksack, and a sleeping bag as some expedition kit is quite expensive. Make sure that you also organise professional medical indemnity—some companies will provide a discount for voluntary work.

Competing interests: I continue to do voluntary (unpaid) work at assessment weekends in the UK with Raleigh International and receive travel expenses to get to these events.

References

  1. Johnson C, Anderson SR, Dallimore J, Winser S, Warrell D, Imray C. Oxford handbook of expedition and wilderness medicine. 2nd ed. Oxford Medical Handbooks, 2015.

Katie Ovens locum senior house officer, Birmingham, UK

katie.ovens@nhs.net

Cite this as BMJ Careers  visit site 
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EWM returns to Nepal for Mountain Medicine…

Mark HannafordExpedition & Wilderness Medicine, , , , ,

Extreme Medicine ’15

Have you claimed your 30% off the World Extreme Medicine Conference & Expo yet? Simply enter ‘WEMEEXPO15SPECIAL30’ when registering to receive your discount. *T&Cs apply.

World Extreme Extreme Medicine Conference & Expo – Poster Competition!

We are now welcoming abstract submissions for the World Extreme Medicine Expo 2015 poster competition. Submissions are welcome from any healthcare professional at any stage of their career including students.   Posters must be based on the key topics of the Conference.

We’d like to see content of educational value  and we’d love to see new research ideas.

Abstract submissions must be no greater than 300 words and include, your name, occupation or subject of study and any professional affiliations.

For more information contact us a admin@expedition-medicine.com  and keep an eye out for more announcements in our newsletters.

Returning to Nepal

Mountain Medicine: Plans to head back to Nepal during November 8 – 25, 2015 are in full swing and we’re really excited! This 17 day expedition will be headed up by Dr Martin Rhodes and Dr Johns Apps who are both hugely experienced in Polar and Altitude environments.

Responsible travel to Nepal is now vital in helping the country get back on it’s feet and as ever we will be donating a portion of the proceed to Everest ER.

Spaces are strictly limited and we recommend getting in touch as soon as you can if you wish to secure your place on this amazing course. Click HERE for more details

The Cure – Season 4

Al Jazeera’s The Cure returns: Featuring World Extreme Medicine Conference speaker Javid Abdelmoneim,

The Cure sees medics working in resource poor environments performing truly amazing and innovative work. Journeying to the frontiers of world health from cutting edge scientific breakthroughs to advances in affordable healthcare for those who need it most.
You can see the the season 4 promo HERE

To catch up with past episodes and learn more about The Cure follow THIS LINK.

If your interested in seeing Javid at the Conference click HERE to be take to the conference website

British Antarctic Survey dentist Burjor Langdana at the Expo

We are so excited that once again Burjor will be hour long practical dental treatment in remote location workshops during this year’s World Extreme Medicine Conference & Expo.

These workshops will be some of the most engaging, exciting and lively sessions you are likely to be involved in. There will be an energy and level of excitement that few but Burj can deliver. For more information on dentistry workshops contact us HERE.

Job opportunities

DDRC Healthcare – Combined Diving & Hyperbaric Medicine / Emergency Medicine.
DDRC and Derriford hospital are currently seeking applications for two junior / middle grade doctors for six months posts, one commencing February and the second in August 2016. Applicants must have two years experience post qualification and have full registration (or be eligible) with the GMC. Successful candidate will be provided with training in Diving & Hyperbaric Medicine and will be funded to enrol in the Postgraduate Certificate in Remote Healthcare at Plymouth University. Check out THIS LINK for more information on this exciting opportunity.

Offer Terms & Conditions*
Limited time and supply | not combinable with other offers | offers ends midnight 31st July 2015 |
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Antarctic Medical Conference 2015: Fight offer

Mark HannafordAdventure, Antarctica, Arctic Medicine, CME, CME Training, cme travel, CME Travel, Dr Alexander Kumar, expedition, Expedition & Wilderness Medicine, Expedition Medicine, Extreme medicine, polar medicine, Remote medicine, wilderness medic, Wilderness medical training, Wilderness Medicine, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Free flights from Miami to Buenos Aires!

Antarctic Wilderness Medicine Conference

Secure complimentary flights from Miami to board expedition ship, National Geographic Explorer in Buenos Aires on 7th December for the iconic Antarctic Medical Conference, when you book with Lindblad Expeditions & mention Expedition & Wilderness Medicine’s medical conference.

Expect breathtaking scenery and huge photo opportunities on this voyage; whales, penguins & a multitude of seabirds: 7th – 20th December. With CME content accredited for 10 hours by the Wilderness Medicine Society and delivered by Dr Alex Kumar.

To read more about this life changing experience visit our Antarctic web-page HERE

This offer is time limited and due to expire 3oth June 2015, so don’t hang around.

 

Links

Antarctic Medical Conference  

EWM course portfolio

EWM Facebook

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Short term medic opportunity – Doctor required in Central America 18th April – 19th May

Mark HannafordCentral America, expedition, Expedition & Wilderness Medicine, Expedition and Wilderness Medicine Facualty, Expedition Doctor, Expedition Medicine, Jobs in Expedition Medicine, Travel, travel doctor, travel medic, wilderness medic, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Gapforce require a motivated medic to support their expedition medicine course starting 18th April.gapFORCElogo

You will be responsible for:

  •  Providing Medical support to all members of Gapforce expeditions.
  •  Monitor and safeguard the general health and hygiene of their expedition group
  •  Provide immediate emergency medical care to participants and staff
  •  Teach basic medical lessons

You need to:

  • Be an F2 doctor (minimum)
  • Have experience in Expedition Medicine

In return you will receive:

  •  Meals
  •  Accommodation
  •  A travel bursary (varies depending on the length of your availability)

 

Contact Lauren Nethercot

laurennethercot@gapforce.org

0207 384 3028

 

Links

Expedition & Wilderness Medicine Courses

Sir Ranulph Fiennes

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Action Challenge is looking for expedition doctors 07 January 2015

Mark HannafordExpedition & Wilderness Medicine, , , , ,

Wilderness Medics neededAction Challenge is looking for expedition doctors to join them on thier international challenges for  2015…

Expedition medics (full doctor) required for Kilimanjaro Expeditions in 2015. Departure from London.

Please fill in this link: https://actionchallenge.watuapp.com/user/new  and email staff@actionchallenge.com

Experience and Level of training required:   Fully qualified Doctor of medicine – Altitude experience and courses in expedition medicine are preferred requirements but not essential

Great interpersonal skills and a positive attitude are essential!

Please mention ‘Expedition Medicine’ when applying for the this post as employeers actively seek members of the EWM Community.

About Action Challenge

Action Challenge organises high quality challenges, trips and adventures for individuals to join our groups, and bespoke events for charities, companies, private groups & schools. What makes all our challenges truly unique is the way we encourage our groups to bond together as teams – and take on the challenge in front of them!  As the saying goes, it’s through adversity that people come together; and in addition to the natural camaraderie that comes with a shared adventure, we actively involve people in the way the challenge unfolds. We believe that through great organisation and a good relationship with our clients, the more we are out of the limelight; the more members of the group get to shine.

Remote Medicine Courses of Interest

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