Episode description

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