We were wondering if there might be a demand for a weekend medical seminar specifically for cruisers far from shore let alone home? I would be happy to facilitate this being a UK GP, an active cruiser and with 25 years of experience in remote mountain medical matters. I wouldn 't propose a rigid course but rather shape it to fit the experience and concerns of those attending. The aim would be to share experiences and skills in an informal environment.

What are your thoughts? Is there a need? What subjects should be tackled? Formal or informal?

Simon

I think this would be a good service if we could support it AND find a way for our members to buy the necessary drugs. I have found that latter quite a challenge.

There are many commercial courses available for sailors. In my experience, they tend to seek to cover all eventualities - including remote contingencies. We did do a course before we began our circumnavigation which the instructor tailored to our needs (because all of the participants were owners about to go ocean sailing). So in addition to basic first aid, the instructor concentrated on the things that were most likely to happen - cuts, bruises, breakages; how to treat them, suturing, and immobilisation of fractures for extended periods etc. together with the administration of various drugs and anesthetics. We also dealt with procdures that older people might require including catheterisation etc., what to do if a crewman had a heart attack etc.

I dont know any friendly doctors. My crew 's GPs were all prepared to provide scripts for ongoing treatments (e.g. hypertension) for extended periods but were not prepared to prescribe drugs "just in case" - not even on a private prescription.

There are a number of organisations that will supply such drugs; initially mine came from a pharmacist in Jersey. He had retired by the time I needed replacements and so I contacted Medical Support Offshore (https://www.msos.org.uk/home.html) who replaced them for me - at a price. Once they have supplied the drugs they will support you at sea - (call a their doctor 24/7 via sat phone) - he knows exactly what kit you have and can advise you what to do. Theirs is a comprehensive service which you can pick and choose from but it is aimed at SuperYachts so they are not shy about billings!

OthersI am aware that Vortec Marine (https://www.vortecmarine.com/medicalkits) will arrange the supply of non-controlled drugs. As to ongoing advice, they refreshingly point out that FREE emergency medical advice is available 365 days a year 24/7 by contacting a UK Maritime Rescue Co-ordination Centre (MRCC) (HF radio or Sat Phone) and being linked to the duty doctor with whom you can agree a care plan for a casualty on board.