So You Want to be a Humanitarian? Raw Realities of Field Medicine in Crisis Zones

We’ve unlocked the vault once again to bring you this emotional session from WEM23. Join Erin Kilborn, emergency medicine consultant and global health student, as she strips away the glamour of humanitarian medicine to reveal its raw, challenging realities.

Drawing from experiences across Haiti, Syria, Gaza and Central African Republic, Kilburn shares powerful insights into the complexities of delivering healthcare in crisis zones. From managing limited resources to navigating cultural differences, discover what it truly means to practise medicine in some of the world’s most challenging environments.

Topics covered:

Personal motivations and challenges in humanitarian work.
Cultural complexities in healthcare delivery.
Resource limitations and difficult decisions.
Psychological impact on healthcare workers.
Reality of returning home after missions.
Building sustainable healthcare solutions.

Through honest storytelling and real case studies, Erin provides a candid look at both the rewards and psychological toll of humanitarian work, essential viewing for anyone considering a career in this field.

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Intended Learning Outcomes

After watching this webinar, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the complex realities of humanitarian medical work, including the challenges of resource limitations, cultural differences and difficult decision-making in crisis environments.

2. Recognise the psychological impact of humanitarian work on healthcare providers, including moral injury, burnout and the challenges of reintegrating into home life after missions.

3. Identify the importance of cultural competency and communication skills in delivering effective healthcare in diverse settings, beyond just clinical expertise.

4. Comprehend the political and security challenges that affect humanitarian operations, including shrinking humanitarian spaces and the impact of conflict on healthcare delivery.

5. Appreciate the personal and professional impact of humanitarian work, including both the rewards of making a difference and the emotional toll of working in crisis situations.