Challenges of Being an Expedition Doctor: Mental Health and Human Factors in Remote Medicine

We’ve unlocked the vault once again to bring you this emotional session from WEM23.

Join Klara Weaver as she provides a raw and honest exploration of the psychological challenges faced by expedition doctors. Through personal journal entries and real experiences, discover the reality of practising medicine in remote environments.

Drawing from her 20-month experience with the British Antarctic Survey, Klara examines the complexities of isolation, team dynamics, and the delicate balance between being a medical professional and expedition member.

Learn about the emotional toll, professional boundaries, and strategies for maintaining mental wellbeing in extreme environments.

Topics covered:

Personal and professional isolation in expedition medicine.
Team dynamics and goal mismatches.
Decision-making under pressure.
Mental health strategies for remote work.
Building resilience and support networks.
Finding balance between medical duties and expedition life

More Information

Intended Learning Outcomes

After watching this session, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the unique psychological challenges faced by expedition doctors, including isolation, role conflicts and team dynamics in remote environments.

2. Recognise the importance of understanding personal motivations and limitations when working in expedition medicine.

3. Identify strategies for maintaining mental wellbeing and professional boundaries whilst working in isolated environments.

4. Comprehend the impact of human factors on medical decision-making in expedition settings.

5. Appreciate the importance of self-reflection and support networks in sustaining a career in expedition medicine.