CoROM cast. Wilderness, Austere, Remote and Resource-limited Medicine.

Sam Kaufman, an herbalist and wilderness medicine educator, dives into the world of guerrilla gardening and nutrition. He discusses the unique advantages of herbal remedies over pharmaceuticals, particularly their effectiveness in treating viral infections. Sam emphasizes the importance of foraging and cooking wild foods for better nutrition and highlights common edible plants like purslane and nettle. He also shares sustainable practices like humanure composting and the importance of sprouting seeds for quick nutrition, offering valuable tips for anyone interested in enhancing their food systems.

Sam Kaufman, a former Special Forces medic and founder of Herbal Medics Academy, shares his insights on guerrilla medicine and herbal care. He discusses the integration of herbal and Western medicine, emphasizing herbs' unique benefits for treating acute conditions, such as viral infections. Kaufman recounts decades of field experience using local plants in austere settings and highlights practical strategies for sourcing nutrition and medicine. With a focus on off-grid capabilities, he encourages medics to master specific herbal applications for effective support in remote clinics.

This week, Aebhric OKelly talks with Eric Linder, who shares the inspiring journey of Team 5, an organisation dedicated to providing remote medical care in underserved communities. Starting as a small group of friends, Team 5 has evolved over 15 years, focusing on humanitarian work without political or religious affiliations. Eric discusses the importance of education and training in remote medicine, emphasising the need for adaptability and cultural understanding. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring remote medics, highlighting the significance of hands-on experience and proper education in making a meaningful impact in global health.TakeawaysTeam 5 started as a small group of friends wanting to help others.The mission evolved from Belize to Guatemala due to logistical challenges.Team 5 focuses on providing medical care without political or religious affiliations.The organisation has grown, but it aims to keep missions small and effective.Eric Linder integrates educational programs with practical missions for students.Remote medicine requires adaptability and understanding of local cultures.Training in remote medicine is essential for effective humanitarian work.Volunteering in underserved areas can provide valuable experience.Education in public health is crucial for addressing global health issues.Team 5 emphasises the importance of being prepared for challenging environments.Chapters00:00 The Birth of Team 513:16 Expanding Horizons in Remote Medicine26:53 Education and Training in Remote Medicine30:55 Advice for Aspiring Remote Medics

In this engaging discussion, Jason Jarvis, a former Special Forces medic and tropical medicine expert, dives deep into Chagas disease, emphasizing its alarming spread into the southern U.S. He explains the life cycle of the kissing bug and how it transmits the disease, highlighting the critical symptoms and diagnostic challenges. Jason stresses the importance of preventive measures for healthcare providers and discusses effective treatments, particularly the urgency of early intervention. This conversation offers vital insights for anyone involved in tropical medicine.

This week, Aebhric talks with students from the University of Pavia in Italy who were attending the Austere and Prehospital Ultrasound course. They discuss innovative teaching methods of ultrasound in medical education, particularly focusing on peer-to-peer learning and the integration of ultrasound training with anatomy education. The students share their experiences with the CoROM ultrasound course, emphasising the practical approach that enhances their understanding of anatomy and clinical skills. They also discuss the challenges of implementing ultrasound training within the medical curriculum and the importance of hands-on experience in mastering ultrasound skills. The conversation highlights the need for supportive faculty and the potential for peer-to-peer teaching to improve learning outcomes in medical education.TakeawaysThe CoROM ultrasound course emphasises practical learning over theoretical knowledge.Peer-to-peer teaching enhances understanding and retention of ultrasound skills.Integrating ultrasound training with anatomy education provides a dynamic learning experience.Students benefit from hands-on experience in real clinical settings.Ultrasound is a skill-based tool that requires practice to master.The importance of having supportive faculty in implementing new teaching methods.Innovative teaching approaches can make learning more engaging and effective.Students are motivated to continue learning and teaching ultrasound skills.There is a need for a standardised curriculum for ultrasound training in medical education.Continuous assessment and practice are key to becoming proficient in ultrasound. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Quorum Podcast and Course Overview01:04 Experiences with the Quorum Ultrasound Teaching Method03:26 Integrating Ultrasound with Anatomy Education06:29 Peer-to-Peer Teaching in Ultrasound Training08:53 The Role of Ultrasound in Clinical Education11:43 Challenges and Support in Implementing Ultrasound Training15:09 Innovative Teaching Approaches in Ultrasound Education17:57 Understanding Ultrasound Through Hands-On Experience19:53 Future Plans for Ultrasound Curriculum Integration23:43 The Importance of Peer-to-Peer Learning in Medicine26:51 Advice for Beginners in Ultrasound Training

This week, Aebhric talks with Andrew Azelton, a CoROM MSc student, discussing his journey through the EMS field and the challenges faced in pursuing advanced practice as a paramedic. He highlights the lack of master's programs in the U.S. that focus on clinical experience, contrasting it with the more developed systems in Europe. The discussion explores state regulations, the variability of care across different regions, and potential pathways for paramedics to advance their roles within the healthcare system.They explore the concept of an advanced practice paramedic, comparing EMS systems in the U.S. and Europe, discussing funding challenges, and the potential for creating new pathways for paramedics. It emphasises the need for advanced education and training, as well as the importance of funding in implementing changes in the EMS system. The discussion also touches on the future of paramedic education and offers advice for new medics entering austere medicine.TakeawaysAndrew Aselton is pursuing a master's program in EMS.The U.S. lacks master's programs focused on clinical experience for paramedics.The EMS system in the U.S. is fractured and varies by state.In Europe, paramedics have their own licenses and greater autonomy.State regulations have a significant impact on the practice of paramedics in the U.S.Advanced practice paramedics are emerging in some states, like Kentucky.There is a need for a structured pathway for advanced practice paramedics in the U.S.The conversation highlights the differences in EMS practices between the U.S. and Europe.Waving a magic wand could lead to significant changes in paramedic education.The discussion raises questions about the future of paramedics in advanced roles.An advanced practice paramedic should have field experience and a graduate degree.Hands-on learning and clinical attachments are crucial for paramedic education.The EMS system in the U.S. varies significantly by state and funding.Funding challenges hinder the implementation of advanced practice paramedics in the U.S.EMS is often not considered an essential service, which can impact funding and resources.Data shows that treatment release can save money and reduce hospital admissions.A national support system is needed for advanced practice paramedics.Creating a nurse practitioner pathway for paramedics could be beneficial.Funding disparities exist between tax-based and for-profit EMS systems.New medical professionals should seek appropriate training and be prepared for the challenges of working in austere environments.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Andrew Aselton and His Journey02:37 Challenges and Growth in the Master's Program05:10 The State of EMS Education in the U.S.07:47 Advanced Practice Paramedics: A Path Forward10:41 The Future of EMS and Advanced Practice Opportunities12:00 Designing the Advanced Practice Paramedic14:52 Comparing EMS Systems: U.S. vs Europe18:00 Funding Challenges in EMS21:50 The Role of Advanced Practice Providers24:08 Creating a New Pathway for Paramedics29:59 The Future of Paramedic Education32:59 Advice for New Medics in Austere Medicine

This week, Aebhric OKelly speaks with Giuseppe Mercieca, the CoROM student representative. They discuss his role as a student advocate, the importance of improvisation in medical training, and the college's future aspirations. The conversation also touches on student feedback, career pathways for paramedics, and advice for new students considering a paramedic program.TakeawaysGiuseppe is a bachelor's student preparing for his clinical placement.He aims to improve communication and support for students.High-fidelity scenarios enhance learning experiences.Improvised medical techniques are crucial in austere environments.Student feedback is essential for program development.Career opportunities exist in remote and offshore medical positions.Networking and volunteering are key to finding jobs.The college is expanding programs based on student demand.CPD courses can serve as an introduction to the program.Collaboration with other medical professionals is vital for progress.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Eye Care Course in Malta02:29 Role of Student Representative05:09 Improvised Medical Techniques07:20 Future Aspirations for the College09:27 Student Feedback and Engagement11:55 Career Pathways for Paramedics14:24 Advice for New Paramedic Students

In this episode, host Aebhric O’Kelly kicks off the new academic year and reflects on the growth of the College of Remote and Offshore Medicine (CoROM), which will celebrate its 10-year anniversary next year. What began in 2016 with just 16 students has grown into an international institution with over 100 students across four degree programmes.This episode features conversations with the leaders of CoROM’s three postgraduate programmes:Dr Ella Corrick – Director of the Doctorate in Health Sciences (DHS), who discusses the growth of the doctoral cohort, the possibility of transitioning to a PhD programme, and the vital role of building a strong online academic community.Dr Csaba Dioszeghy – Programme Manager of the MSc in Austere Critical Care (ACC), who shares upcoming updates, including flexible online pathways, new elective modules in ultrasound and paediatric critical care, and stronger international clinical placement partnerships.Dr Nick Zuber – Programme Director of the Masters in Global Health (MGH), who explains the difference between global and public health, the diverse career opportunities for graduates, and how this degree prepares clinicians for leadership roles in international healthcare systems and disaster relief.

This week, Aebhric OKelly talks with Pierto Batistoni, Grant Hollyoake, and Finn McNamara, who are currently going through the BSc Remote Paramedic Practice programme. They explore the experiences of paramedic students during their clinical placements in Tanzania, focusing on their integration with local medical staff, the challenges they face in emergency medicine, and the unique medical cases they encounter, particularly related to altitude sickness. The students share insights on their learning experiences, the skills they are developing, and the cultural aspects of living and working in Tanzania. They also discuss the importance of building relationships with local healthcare professionals and the impact of their experiences on their future careers in medicine.TakeawaysThe integration with local staff enhances learning and trust.Emergency medicine in Tanzania presents unique challenges.Improvised medical solutions are often necessary in resource-limited settings.Altitude sickness is a common issue for climbers on Kilimanjaro.Building relationships with local healthcare professionals is crucial.Clinical placements provide hands-on experience in real-life scenarios.Students experience a wide range of medical cases during their placements.Cultural experiences enrich the overall learning process.Living conditions can vary, impacting student experiences.Advice for future students includes joining local networks for support.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Clinical Experiences in Tanzania01:59 Diverse Backgrounds and Initial Challenges04:16 Integration with Medical Staff06:12 Experiences in the Emergency Department07:46 Improvised Medical Practices09:54 Common Injuries and Case Studies12:08 Altitude-Related Illnesses14:51 Clinical Skills and Learning Opportunities20:21 Living Conditions and Accommodation24:34 Leisure Activities and Cultural Experiences27:17 Advice for Future Students

This week, Aebhric O’Kelly talks with Jonathan Downham, an advanced critical care practitioner, who shares his journey and insights into the evolving role of advanced practitioners in healthcare. He discusses the training pathways, responsibilities, and the importance of collaboration with junior doctors. Jonathan emphasises the need for continuous learning, research opportunities, and the future of advanced practice in critical care. He also highlights his innovative approach to training through e-learning and podcasts, aiming to enhance the skills of healthcare professionals.TakeawaysJonathan Downham is an advanced critical care practitioner with extensive experience in nursing.The role of advanced critical care practitioners (ACCPs) is to provide consistency in critical care units.ACCPs are trained to perform many tasks traditionally done by junior doctors, enhancing patient care.Training for ACCPs includes a postgraduate diploma and a master's degree, focusing on clinical skills and research.ACCPs have their own license to practice and can prescribe medications independently.The role of ACCPs is evolving, with opportunities in research and education.There is a growing recognition of the value of ACCPs in the healthcare system.The future of ACCPs may involve more independence and leadership roles in healthcare.Jonathan has created an e-learning platform to enhance training for critical care practitioners.Continuous learning and curiosity are essential for success in healthcare.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Advanced Critical Care Practice04:34 The Role of Advanced Critical Care Practitioners09:09 Training Pathways and Qualifications14:06 Independence and Responsibilities of ACCPs19:44 Research and Publication in Advanced Practice26:40 Future of Advanced Critical Care Practitioners29:21 Creating Educational Resources for Critical Care33:22 Advice for New Practitioners