Svalbard Polar Medicine Expedition
Svalbard
Set yourself a new challenge – true expedition polar medicine.
Cold, isolation, terrain, and delayed evacuation turn even basic medical decisions into high-risk problems. This expedition-based Polar Medicine course takes you into the Arctic wilderness of Svalbard, where medical care must be delivered in one of the most remote environments on Earth.
Through a blend of expedition travel, field-based teaching, practical workshops, and scenario-driven learning, you’ll develop the judgement, confidence, and decision-making required to operate safely and effectively in polar expedition settings.
Your Teaching Faculty
Course Content
Carole
I truly enjoyed this course and expedition, and felt like it pushed my own limits in a way that previous courses haven’t. The breadth of experience of the faculty was truly inspiring, and likely something that won’t quite be replicated for some time. Although I definitely had moments where I wondered why I was pushing myself so much, in retrospect I now feel incredibly lucky and privileged to have been part of the experience. I have learnt many invaluable lessons, and already cannot wait to plan a similar expedition. I am also grateful to have met so many like-minded participants, many of whom will likely remain friends.
William
I just want to re-inforce how unbelievable our instructors were – they were an unbelievable team, who worked so so well together.
Ronald
Everybody gelled and cooperated well, great team spirit! Everybody did their best. Svalbard’s Foreverland polar landscapes are unforgettable.
What's Included?
Field-Based Expedition Training
Teaching is delivered through a real Arctic expedition, with skills developed through continuous practical application rather than lectures or artificial scenarios.
Expert Faculty & Local Guides
You’ll be supported by World Extreme Medicine faculty alongside experienced polar guides with extensive Arctic and expedition backgrounds.
Accommodation, Meals & Expedition Equipment
Your course fee includes accommodation, meals during the expedition, skis, boots, poles, tents, and shared expedition equipment.
Please note that Dinner on the first and last nights of this course are not included.
CPD & Course Certification
This course has been awarded 19.5 CPD hours by The Royal College of Surgeons 0f Edinburgh.
On completion, you’ll receive a certificate of attendance recognising your training in polar expedition medicine.
Book Now
GBP £4,299.00
In stock
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this course right for me?
This course is designed for healthcare professionals and students who want to apply their clinical skills in true polar expedition settings. It’s best suited to those with some prior cold-weather or expedition experience who are ready to progress into more complex environments.
If you’re unsure, we recommend using the Course Fit Checker or booking a discovery call.
Do I need previous polar experience?
You should be comfortable in cold environments and have some familiarity with expedition-style living. Experience with cross-country skiing is strongly recommended, but you don’t need to be an expert.
What level of fitness is required?
A good level of general fitness is essential. You’ll be travelling on skis, living in tents, and operating in cold conditions for multiple days. You don’t need elite endurance, but you must be capable of sustained physical activity in Arctic environments.
What kit do I need to bring?
Temperatures can reach -30°C, so correct kit is critical. A detailed kit list will be provided on booking and must be followed closely.
Poor kit preparation may limit your ability to participate fully. If you have any questions about equipment, the team is happy to advise.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes. Comprehensive travel and medical insurance covering Arctic expedition activities is mandatory. You’ll be required to confirm insurance details before the course begins.
I have another question
If you wish to learn more or have any additional questions, we invite you to book a 30-minute discovery call with our team.
→ Click here to book a discovery call.
The call will be with the team who organise our courses and work closely with our medical teaching faculty. They’re best placed to explain what our attendees really get out of attending a course with us.
You can choose between a video or voice call — whatever suits you best.
Register for a time that works for you, and we look forward to speaking with you soon.
Prefer email? Then feel free to contact us.
Your Safety
The comprehensive curriculum and field scenarios are carefully designed to push your limits while mitigating risks.
We take every precaution to keep participants safe by:
- Rigorous gear checks before all expedition days
- Mandatory evacuation insurance policies
- Close coordination with local emergency responders
