

CoROM cast. Wilderness, Austere, Remote and Resource-limited Medicine.
College of Remote and Offshore Medicine
Hosted by Aebhric O'Kelly, a critical care paramedic and former Green Beret, CoROM Cast explores wilderness medicine, austere healthcare, tropical diseases, emergency medicine, and remote medical practice. Weekly discussions feature global experts on Prolonged Field Care, Austere Critical Care, disaster medicine, humanitarian response, military pre-hospital care, tropical medicine, expedition healthcare, medical innovation, and practical solutions for healthcare in resource-limited environments.
Published by CoROM Press
www.corom.edu.mt
Published by CoROM Press
www.corom.edu.mt
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 6, 2024 • 40min
120-Student Support with Phill Clark
This week, Aebhric O’Kelly talks with Phill Clark about his journey from a career in product management to becoming involved in medical education at the Masters of Austere Critical Care. He discusses the importance of practical skills in medicine, his role in improving student experiences, and the unique challenges adult learners face. Phil also highlights advancements in digital microscopy and AI, emphasising the collaborative potential of technology in healthcare. He concludes with advice for new medics, stressing the value of hands-on experience and the offerings of CoROM.
Takeaways
Phil transitioned from product management to medical education during COVID.
He emphasizes the importance of practical skills in medicine.
Phil's role involves improving student experiences in the Masters programme.
He advocates for a centralised communication system for student inquiries.
Phil believes in the value of individualised responses to student needs.
CoROM’s student body is generally older and more experienced.
Lifelong learning is crucial for personal and professional growth.
Advancements in AI and digital microscopy can enhance healthcare delivery.
Phil stresses the importance of hands-on experience for new medics.
He encourages exploring Co-ROM's courses for aspiring medical professionals.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Phil Clark
05:10 Phil's Journey to Medical Education
13:28 Improving Student Experience
18:52 The Importance of Individualized
Responses
25:27 Lifelong Learning and Experience
38:11 Advice for New Medics

Nov 29, 2024 • 40min
119-Aerospace Medicine with Dr David Newman
This week, Aebhric O’Kelly talks with Dr David Newman, an aerospace medicine expert who shares his extensive experience in military aviation, the evolution of fighter aircraft, and the future of human pilots in an increasingly automated world. He discusses his recent presentation at the Taipei International Military Medicine Forum, the importance of aerospace medicine education, and the challenges posed by AI in academic publishing.
Takeaways
• Dr Newman has a rich background in military aviation and aerospace medicine.
• The F-18 is considered one of the best aircraft to fly.
• The future of piloting may shift towards AI and drones.
• Ejection from aircraft can lead to hidden injuries like vertebral fractures.
• Aerospace medicine education is crucial for both civil and military doctors.
• AI poses challenges in maintaining the integrity of academic publishing.
• Crazy Socks for Docs raises awareness for
mental health in healthcare professionals.
• Mental health issues in healthcare are often overlooked.
• Interest in a subject is key to completing a PhD.
• The evolution of fighter jets reflects advancements in technology.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dr David Newman
02:59 Aviation Medicine and Military Experience
06:01 The Evolution of Fighter Aircraft
08:52 The Future of Human Pilots in Aviation
11:59 Insights from the Taipei International Military Medicine Forum
15:04 Aerospace Medicine Education and Training
17:51 The Role of AI in Academic Publishing
20:58 Crazy Socks for Docs: A Movement for Mental Health
23:53 Advice for New Medics in Aerospace Medicine

Nov 22, 2024 • 33min
118-Tanguy Bader
This week, Aebhric O’Kelly talks with Tanguy Bader, a second-year BSc Paramedic student, who shares his journey in paramedicine, discussing his experiences in New Orleans EMS, the importance of continuous learning, and his aspirations for the future. He emphasises the significance of basic skills in emergency medicine, the value of patient interactions, and his desire to contribute to international healthcare efforts. Tanguy reflects on his educational experiences and the impact they have on his clinical practice, highlighting the importance of being a compassionate and competent clinician.
Takeaways
• Continuous learning is essential in paramedicine.
• Basic skills are crucial for effective patient care.
• Patient interactions provide valuable insights into care.
• Paramedic education enhances clinical practice significantly.
• Experience in the field complements academic learning.
• Building relationships with partners is vital in EMS.
• A focus on patient dignity and respect is paramount.
• International work offers unique challenges and rewards.
• Communication and teamwork are key in emergency situations.
• Embracing technology can aid in overcoming learning challenges.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Tanguy Bader and His
Journey
03:10 Learning and Growth in Paramedic
Education
09:32 Pathway to Becoming a Paramedic
17:11 Future Aspirations in Paramedicine
20:49 The Importance of Patient Interaction
27:00 Experiences in New Orleans EMS
30:37 Advice for New Paramedics
33:45 Conclusion and Reflections

Nov 15, 2024 • 40min
117-Diploma Tropical Nurse with Katie Beck
This week, Aebhric O’Kelly talks with Katie Beck, director of the Diploma of Tropical Nursing at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, who shares her extensive experiences in global health and expedition medicine. She discusses the challenges nurses face in low-resource settings, the importance of cultural competence, and the evolving role of nurses in global health. Katie emphasises the significance of the Diploma of Tropical Nursing in preparing healthcare professionals for work in diverse environments and highlights the need for advocacy and innovation in nursing education.
Takeaways
• Katie Beck has a diverse background in nursing and global health.
• Expedition medicine offers unique challenges and experiences.
• Cultural competence is crucial in healthcare delivery.
• Nurses are vital in global health, delivering 80% of care.
• The Diploma of Tropical Nursing prepares nurses for low-resource settings.
• The PDTN fosters a global network of healthcare professionals.
• Innovative approaches in nursing education are essential for future challenges.
• Partnerships in healthcare education enhance mutual benefits.
• Critical thinking is essential, but doubt should not impede action.
• The future of nursing includes advocacy and leadership in global health.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Katie Beck and Her Work
02:50 Experiences in Expedition Medicine
06:00 Challenges in Austere Nursing
11:02 Cultural Competence in Healthcare
15:05 The Role of Nurses in Global Health
19:15 The Diploma of Tropical Nursing (DTN)
23:00 Future of the DTN and Global Health
33:53 Advice for New Medics and Nurses

Nov 8, 2024 • 36min
116-Paramedic Programme Manager Mike Morrow
This week, Aebhric O’Kelly talks with Mike Morrow, the CoROM BSc Remote Paramedic programme coordinator, on his journey from being a paramedic to evaluating organs for transplantation. He discusses the unique challenges faced in emergency medical services, particularly in Africa, and highlights the dedication of students in the BSc Remote Paramedic Programme. Morrow emphasises the importance of experience in austere environments and compares the training and practices of U.S. paramedics with those of BSc graduates. He provides valuable insights and advice for new medics and nurses starting their careers.
Takeaways
• Mike Morrow evaluates hearts and lungs for organ transplantation.
• He has a rich background in paramedic training and critical care.
• The BSc Remote Paramedic Program offers unique opportunities for students.
• Students are dedicated to helping in austere settings.
• There needs to be more EMS in many African countries.
• Experience in austere environments is crucial for paramedics.
• Morrow emphasises the importance of adaptability in emergency care.
• The programme prepares students for real-world challenges in healthcare.
• Morrow encourages new medics to gain as much experience as possible.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mike Morrow
05:53 Transitioning to Academia and Teaching
14:22 Challenges in African Emergency Medical Services
19:28 Comparing U.S. and BSc Paramedic Practices
24:38 Prolonged Care in Austere Environments
29:46 Advice for New Medics and Nurses

Nov 1, 2024 • 21min
115-New Clinical Placements in Ghana
This week, Aebhric, John Clark and Emmanuel Acheampong discuss a new collaboration in Kumasi, Ghana. The College is creating a collaboration with Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital to enhance medical education and training. They discuss the hospital's capabilities, the emergency department's operations, the triage system, and the potential for student placements and training initiatives. The discussion highlights the importance of building sustainable relationships and the shared challenges faced in healthcare across different regions.
https://kath.gov.gh/
Takeaways
• The visit aims to explore collaboration opportunities with Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
• The hospital has a wide range of departments, including emergency medicine.
• The emergency department has evolved significantly over the years.
• Triage is a critical component of patient flow in the emergency department.
• There is a growing emphasis on training and certification for healthcare professionals.
• The collaboration will provide advanced clinical experiences for students.
• Building relationships is essential for successful partnerships in healthcare.
• The hospital aims to implement BLS and ACLS training for all staff.
• Future plans include establishing a sustainable relationship that benefits both organisations.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Context of the Visit
04:04 Emergency Department Insights
09:12 Triage System and Patient Flow
11:31 Collaboration Opportunities and Student Placements
15:06 Training and Certification Initiatives
17:08 Future Plans and Sustainable Relationships
19:01 Advice for New Medical Professionals

Oct 25, 2024 • 40min
114-Nunavut, Canada Nurse, Anke Krug
This week, Aebhric talks with Anke Krug, who is a community nurse in Nunavut, Canada, and shares her experiences and challenges in providing healthcare in a remote Arctic environment. She discusses the complexities of medevac nursing, the environmental considerations for patient care, and the importance of collaboration and communication in remote healthcare settings. Anke also highlights the evolving roles in nursing and paramedicine, the need for ongoing training and education, and the significance of patient assessment and decision-making in austere conditions. The conversation concludes with advice for new nurses entering the field.
Takeaways
The Arctic presents unique challenges for healthcare delivery.
Medevac nursing requires careful preparation and environmental awareness.
Collaboration with other healthcare professionals is essential.
Telehealth plays a crucial role in remote patient care.
Nursing roles are evolving to include advanced paramedic skills.
Patient assessment is critical in making treatment decisions.
Guidelines for prolonged field care can enhance patient outcomes.
Technology is improving healthcare delivery in remote areas.
Community engagement is essential for mental well-being in harsh environments.
New nurses should seek mentorship and focus on continuous learning.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Community Nursing in Nunavut
03:00 The Challenges of Medivac Nursing
05:54 Environmental Considerations in Patient Care
08:59 Collaboration and Communication in Remote Healthcare
12:12 Evolving Roles in Nursing and Paramedicine
14:58 Training and Education for Remote Healthcare
18:05 Patient Assessment and Decision Making
20:59 Utilising Guidelines for Prolonged Field Care
23:52 Technology and Innovations in Remote Medicine
27:09 Community Engagement and Fun in Nunavut
30:01 Advice for New Nurses in Austere Environments

Oct 18, 2024 • 41min
113-MERP with Rhod Jordan
This week, Aebhric OKelly speaks with Rhod Jordan, a remote paramedic working in Kurdistan, about the intricacies of the Medical Emergency Response Plan (MERP). Rhod shares his experiences and insights on the importance of planning, communication, and training in emergency medical situations. He emphasises the need for thorough assessments of local medical facilities and the significance of building relationships with local healthcare providers. The discussion also covers the training and development of medical teams in austere environments and advice for new medics entering the field.
Takeaways
The MERP is essential for efficient emergency response.
Communication protocols are critical in emergencies.
Regular training and drills improve readiness.
Local medical facilities should be audited before use.
Building relationships with local healthcare providers is vital.
Documentation and evaluation are vital to improving plans.
New medics should seek guidance from experienced professionals.
Understanding local laws regarding medical supplies is crucial.
Prolonged field care concepts are essential in remote areas.
Utilising technology can enhance patient care and communication.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Remote Paramedicine in Kurdistan
01:21 Understanding the Medical Emergency Response Plan (MERP)
03:37 Components of a Successful MERP
15:06 Communication and Coordination in Emergencies
22:48 Evaluating Local Medical Facilities
36:20 Training and Development for Medical Teams
41:39 Advice for New Medics in Austere Environments

Oct 11, 2024 • 42min
112-NSOCM Past and Future with PAC
This week, Aebhric chats with Dr Peter Anders Christiansen (PAC), a former senior medical officer in the Danish Special Forces, who discusses his work in PTSD treatment using Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) and his role in developing the Nordic Special Operations Combat Medic Course. He shares insights on the effectiveness of SGB for veterans suffering from PTSD, the challenges of medical training in NATO countries, and the future of special operations medical education in Europe. PAC also offers valuable advice for new medics entering austere medical environments.
safenordicsolutions.com
stellatumklinikken.com
Takeaways
SGB is effective for treating hyperarousal in PTSD.
The amygdala's reset can significantly improve PTSD symptoms.
The Nordic Special Operations Combat Medic Course was developed to standardise training.
Collaboration among Nordic countries was vital to creating the NSOC.
Future funding and strategic changes will impact medical training in Europe.
Interoperability among NATO countries is essential for effective medical support.
Cultural differences affect the implementation of medical training across nations.
New medics must adapt to austere medical environments.
Improvisation is crucial in emergency medical situations.
The importance of continuous education and recertification for medics.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Peter Anders Christiansen
01:31 Innovative PTSD Treatment: Stellate Ganglion Block
12:34 The Nordic Special Operations Combat Medic Course
34:34 Future of NSOCM and European Medical Training
49:27 Advice for New Medics in Austere Medicine

Oct 4, 2024 • 53min
111-PCC vs PFC with Jamie Riesberg
This week, Aebhric O’Kelly talks with Dr Jamie Riesberg, who created the separation of Prolonged Casualty Care (PCC) from Prolonged Field Care (PFC).
Dr Riesberg has extensive experience in military medicine, focusing on the evolution of prolonged field care and the transition from the Global War on Terror (GWOT) to future conflicts. He emphasises the importance of adapting medical training to current battlefield realities, including lessons from Ukraine. Dr Riesberg advocates for a shift in mindset towards PCC and the need for continuous hands-on experience for medics. They also discuss the challenges posed by policy and training limitations, urging a more robust approach to medical care in combat situations.
Takeaways
Prolonged field care is essential for future military operations.
Past conflicts influence the evolution of military medicine.
NATO plays a crucial role in standardising medical training.
Lessons from Ukraine highlight the need for adaptability in medical care.
Medics must be prepared for prolonged care situations.
The environment significantly impacts medical decision-making.
Continuous training and hands-on experience are vital for medics.
Policy changes are necessary to enhance medical training opportunities.
Expectant casualty management is a growing concern in military medicine.
Curiosity and creativity are critical traits for success in austere medicine.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jamie Riesberg
02:54 The Evolution of Military Medicine
05:48 The Importance of Prolonged Field Care
09:02 Transitioning from GWAT to LISCO
12:04 The Role of NATO in Medical Training
15:00 Lessons from Ukraine and Future Conflicts
17:49 The Concept of Prolonged Casualty Care
20:51 Challenges in Training and Policy
24:05 The Future of Medical Care in Combat
27:03 Advice for New Medics in Austere Medicine


