About expedition medicine
The polar regions are one of the most challenging environments for expedition medicine, and it is essential to have a medical professional with the necessary skills and expertise to provide medical care in these austere environments.
Training required to become a polar medic includes a number of subjects, including cold weather medicine, navigation, dentistry, training as a polar guide, communication skills, survival skills, risk assessment, and the use of medical kits.
The polar regions are one of the most challenging environments for expedition medicine, and it is essential to have a medical professional with the necessary skills and expertise to provide medical care in these austere environments.
Training required to become a polar medic includes a number of subjects, including cold weather medicine, navigation, dentistry, training as a polar guide, communication skills, survival skills, risk assessment, and the use of medical kits.
A course such as the Polar Medicine Course in Norway is extremely expensive and only provides a limited amount of knowledge. Since a large number of skills are required, a long-term approach is important and can be complemented with module courses as found, for example, by Remote Area Risk International.
Several of the Arctic Safety Center’s and Mountain Rescue Association’s courses are excellent and should be considered. I have included links to several on my “Partner” page as I have taken my courses at both organizations.
It is necessary to be trained in and familiar with these modes of transportation in these conditions since transportation in the polar areas is either done by boat or by snowmobile. Transporting a patient who is hypothermic is a highly difficult undertaking that requires much practical training and knowledge.
As a conclusion, I’d advise either taking more time to complete the required modules of training and continuing to study because this is a continuous process, or hiring someone to plan and assist the trip. I’m willing to discuss specifics and provide assistance.