When it comes to treating injuries or illness, the open ocean presents unique considerations for the medical emergencies at sea. Oftentimes, austere weather conditions coupled with extended evacuation times complicate the decision-making skills and judgment of the medical caregiver.

The purpose of this course is to prepare mariners for administering emergency medical care while taking into consideration the environmental challenges of the open ocean. Upon completion, each student will have satisfied the educational requirements to receive the USCG certified Medical Person in Charge certification and will have the proper documentation to work aboard commercial vessels as a medical care provider.

As mandated by the US Coast Guard under STCW 95 Table A-VI/4-2 Medical Person in Charge, each student will acquire the knowledge, understanding and proficiency to respond to common at-sea medical issues. The course format will be a combination of lecture, interactive classroom discussion, and practical skills lab. A typical day will start at 8:00 in the morning with a case review and student taught topic. A substantial amount of class time is spent in the field practicing in real-time scenarios so each student has the opportunity to train in the most realistic setting possible.