LinkedIn
YouTube
Instagram
Cart
TESTING

#WEM21 Speaker Announcement #2

WEMC-AdminHomepage-list, Speakers, WEM21, World Extreme Medicine Conference Speakers

Following our first reveal, we think you’ve waited long enough to hear about the next batch of impressive #WEM21 speakers.

Like last time, we’re going all out with eight speaker reveals (one is never enough!). They’re a diverse, inspiring, high-profile bunch of boundary-breakers. We’re covering a lot of specialist ground (and space) with this mix…

JD Polk

Chief Health & Medical Officer

NASA

We’re honoured to welcome back JD Polk to the WEM conference this year!

NASA’s Chief Health and Medical Officer and Health and Medical Technical Authority in Washington DC, JD Polk is a distinguished medic and overseer of 25 space missions. Working his way through the ranks from the Rescue Forces (‘Air Docs’) to the top ranks at NASA, his long career has earned him many awards and commendations – from NASA to the White House and the FBI.

JD Polk is also a multi-disciplinary practitioner in extreme medicine, with expertise spanning emergency medicine, disaster medicine, critical care, medical management and space medicine. This makes him widely published, including as a co-author of the textbook on Space Physiology and Medicine.

We’re incredibly fortunate to host JD Polk again this year at #WEM21 – someone you do not want to miss.

Megan Evans

Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine Doctor

DDRC Healthcare

WEM alumni, junior doctor and divemaster – we’re looking forward to Megan sharing her love of underwater adventure.

A dive and hyperbaric medicine doctor at DDRC in Plymouth (UK), Megan is an experienced remote and expedition medic. She’s worked with medical care charity Floating Doctors in Panama and Blue Ventures in Madagascar and hopes to travel next to Indonesia as a dive medic. She later plans to add anaesthetics to her ever-growing expertise.

Keep a lookout for…

  • Session: Looking After Divers in Remote Locations

Rudi Taylor

Colour Sergeant in the Royal Marines Commandos

Royal Navy

Combat under any conditions is tough – so what about fighting in sub-zero temperatures?

Royal Marines Commando, Colour Sergeant Rudi Taylor tells all…

For the last ten years, he has served in the elite Royal Marines Mountain Leader branch, during which time frostbite and hypothermia has pushed his body and mind to the limits of endurance.

A passionate CMI Level 5 coach, Rudi is also accomplished at using his elite training and experience to pass on his extensive knowledge. Leveraging his time spent up mountains and deep in the Arctic, he and his team designed and delivered the Army’s Cold Weather Training for Operations in the Baltics to over 2,000 allied soldiers.

Keep a lookout for…

  • Session 1: Combat Below Zero

Hannah Schneiders

Clinical Teaching Fellow

Great Western Hospital

A WEM MSc student and PGY5 doctor working in Severn as a Clinical Teaching Fellow, Hannah is an experienced expedition medic.

A great believer that “medicine is a passport, not a destination”, Hannah has travelled far and wide to jungles, mountains and deserts, supporting ultra-athletes at sports events in some of the world’s most extreme environments.

Also an accomplished diver, her sights are next set on adding dive medicine to her expedition medicine skillset, alongside developing her knowledge in anaesthetics and intensive care.

Keep a lookout for…

  • Session: It Happens – D and V on Expeditions

George Kourounis

Explorer, Storm Chaser & TV Presenter

Explorer, storm chaser & TV presenter, George is another of our speakers who needs no introduction.

Over 20 years documenting natural disasters and the most extreme forces of nature, George has become a household name with TV series like Angry Planet and Storm Chasers. No stranger to tornadoes, hurricanes, volcanoes, avalanches, and the effects of climate change, he’s travelled the world and has an intimate understanding of our planet’s extremes.

A Guinness World Record holder and a member of numerous prestigious explorer, geographical and environmental societies, he’s also spoken at the UN, TEDx (5 times) and the Global Exploration Summit.

We’re fortunate and excited that George is joining us for #WEM21 – with his backlog of work and knowledge, it’s guaranteed to be epic.

Find out more about George at www.furiousearth.com

Keep a lookout for…

  • Session: Exploring Earth’s Extremes (and Living to Tell the Tale)

Amelia Liddell

Sea Turtle Veterinarian

The Olive Ridley Project

A big believer that “medicine is your passport to the world”, Amelia (Minnie) is a licensed vet in the UK, the Maldives and North America. She’s also a member of the Royal College of Veterinarian Surgeons.

One of the few vets worldwide working exclusively with endangered sea turtles, Amelia is determined to help reduce the many thousands of deaths caused by industrial fishing every year.

Amelia’s career is as unique as the reptiles she cares for – an exciting opportunity to see her present at #WEM21!

Keep a lookout for…

  • Session 1: Extreme Sea Turtle Veterinary Medicine; Saving Ancients in Remote Locations

Hugh Montgomery

Professor of Intensive Care Medicine

University College London (UCL)

Accredited as a specialist in general internal medicine, cardiology and intensive care medicine, Hugh Montgomery is a real force in the medical world.

As Professor of Intensive Care Medicine at UCL, he’s also director of the Centre for Human Health and Performance. Since qualifying in 1987, he has amassed an impressive career track record…

Publisher of the description of the first gene for human performance, he’s also written over 500 papers – 3 featuring in Nature. For over 20 years, he’s worked in the field of climate change and human health, co-authoring the first Lancet Commission report on the subject and co-chairing the next.

These days, he presides as co-chair over 35 institutions across 27 countries as co-chair for the Lancet Countdown on health and climate change. He is the GLA London Leader for Sustainability and is the founder of the climate change school education venture, Project Genie.

Of course, you want to hear more…

Keep a lookout for…

  • Session: Our Survival Depends Upon Our Environment

Burjor Langdana

Expedition Dentist

World Extreme Medicine & AdventureMedic

WEM faculty, resident expedition dentist for AdventureMedic and staple of the World Extreme Medicine Conference for many years, Burjor is a foremost expert in expedition, wilderness and remote dentistry.

His far-reaching experience has taken him from running dental camps in India, to Oman, working as a VSO in Malawi and with Mobile Surgical Services in New Zealand – even spending four seasons in the Antarctic and consulting for the British Antarctic Survey Medical Unit.

He’s a contributing author and editor for the Oxford Handbook of Expedition and Wilderness Medicine’s dental chapter and writer of countless specialist articles. He’s also lectured around the world.

Burjor’s real power now lies in teaching what he terms as ‘the dark art of Expedition Dentistry’ – and you’ll get the chance to sign up for one of these intensive hands-on workshops when you join us for #WEM21 in Edinburgh!

Keep a lookout for…

  • Session: Dentistry Workshop (Edinburgh only)

—————————-

Book your place in-person or online to #WEM21 and join one of the most energetic and unique networks in the universe. It’s a gathering of dedicated extreme medics and inspiring thought-leaders like all those we’ve announced here – plus many, many more yet to come!

Read more on #WEM21:

#WEM21 Speaker Announcement including keynote speaker Dr Jane Goodall
#WEM21 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers (FAQs)

Read More

#WEM21 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers (FAQ’s)

WEMC-AdminHomepage-list, WEM21,

What is the World Extreme Medicine Conference?

Founded 10 years ago by Mark Hannaford, (Founder and CEO of World Extreme Medicine) the World Extreme Medicine Conference is an exciting platform for medical minds to share experiences, innovations, best practise, promote cross-disciplinary working and generate new research.

Over the three days, the World Extreme Medicine Conference – online and in Edinburgh – attracts thousands of professionals, bringing together the world’s most respected names in extreme medicine alongside delegates from over 30 countries. It challenges thinking, builds bridges and introduces new ideas about medicine at its most remote and austere.

What makes us different?

We’re free of sponsorship and therefore our conference content does not contain commercially influenced material, pitches or product talks.

Why should I come to #WEM21?

Let’s start with Dr Will Duffin, Content Director of #WEM21, on why this year’s conference is so important…

A little reminder of the extreme benefits to you and your career:

  • Learn from 80+ of the most convention-breaking, discipline-blending, boundary-shattering medics this side of the known universe.
  • Uncover how rudimentary equipment can be used in ways you never expected to tip the balance of life and death.
  • Get your hands dirty learning cutting-edge field-proven techniques both indoors and in outdoor ‘rain or shine’ technical sessions.* (Will be streamed online, but your hands will be clean unless you come to Edinburgh!)
  • Immerse yourself in visceral real-world simulations, including our hugely popular live action ‘mass casualty’ simulation.*
  • Unlock the secrets to becoming a specialist in extreme medicine by connecting with world leaders in extreme medicine and unlock the secrets to becoming a specialist yourself – from war surgeon or humanitarian, to emergency first responder or Arctic expedition medic.
  • Network with career-defining organisations including NASA, the ICRC and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Our online environment will use artificial intelligence to connect you with relevant people and businesses.
  • Suit up for evening events and bracing morning runs with our team of maverick medics* (This year we even have a surprise treat – think modern Vivaldi playing exclusively for you)
    • Earn up to 18 CPD credits to prove your continued dedication to your development.

(*Accessible only if attending in Edinburgh.)

And a whole lot more still to be announced in the coming months.

When is the #WEM21 Conference taking place?

#WEM21 will run for 3 days from 13th – 15th November 2021 and as it’s our 10th anniversary, we’ll be making it extra extreme with speakers and insights you do not want to miss!

Delegate registration opens at 8:30am each day, and the conference closes at 6.30pm on Monday 15th.

Plus, for the first time ever, you can either attend in person at Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh or online via our brand new, top of the range software that’s even more advanced than VirtualWEM20 was.

What is the key theme for #WEM21?

Over the 3 days, there are a range of topics based around our overarching theme of ‘A New World Awaits’; a theme we are confident will resonate with anyone practising medicine in extreme conditions.

We are going to both reflect over the challenges we faced, some of the learning that’s come from this, how we’ve grown as a global health community but also plan forwards and think about some of the incredible opportunities that lie ahead. Opportunities for us as health workers with incredibly valuable skills to make our most valuable contribution yet.

What are the differences between attending in person or online?

Whether we see you in Edinburgh or on a screen, we guarantee you an experience like no other.
To help you decide, dive deeper into the plans for info on in-person tickets vs online tickets.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and circumstance. However, you choose to attend, we can’t wait to share what we have in store for you as we celebrate our 10th anniversary – it promises to be EXTREME!

——————————————————————–

Attending in person?

Here’s everything you need to know…

  • The #WEM21 Edinburgh Experience
  • Fully immerse yourself in #WEM21 experience, our 10th year!
  • Attend your chosen speaker sessions; ask your questions and join in with real-time debates
  • Unique opportunity to meet and chat to speakers throughout the 3 days
  • Face-to-face networking; socialise with like-minded professionals and future colleagues
  • Experience the hands-on workshops, talks and organised social events – the Cèilidh is one event not to be missed!
  • Full access to the online platform during and after the conference – all main talks will be recorded and available for 12 months.
  • Explore the historic city of Edinburgh in your free time
  • Limited tickets available – when they’re gone, they really are gone.

What are the costs for attending?

In-person at Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh:

  • Full tickets – £699 for 3 days
  • Intermediate tickets – £515 for 3 days
  • Student tickets – £429 for 3 days
  • (Online Conference – 3 days £199)

N.B. Admission to the online platform is included in the Edinburgh ticket price. All prices are inclusive of VAT.

PLUS, as a little extra 10th anniversary ‘early bird’ special…

  • The first 100 people to buy an Edinburgh ticket can choose either a challenge coin or a WEM patch which they can collect at the conference
  • The first 200 people to buy an online ticket will receive a WEM patch, which will be posted directly to them

Can I purchase a single day ticket?

In short, the answer is no.

Historically most tickets purchased are for 3 days, and where a few single day tickets were sold, it left some of our delegates having to purchase single day tickets without the discount.

We’re also streamlining our schedule for 2021, meaning each day is no longer ‘themed’ as it was for previous conferences. Instead, we’re offering a blend of Expedition and Wilderness Medicine, Humanitarian, Disaster and Pre-Hospital Medicine, Space Medicine across all three days – all guided by our theme ‘A New World Awaits’. You also get full access to all conference content for 12 months afterwards.

What is the cancellation/refund policy on tickets?

Edinburgh tickets

Conference cancellations made before 2nd August 2021 will incur a £150 administration fee. Cancellations made after 2nd August 2021 will not be refunded.

If within the refund window, we recommend letting us know of any changes that will affect your attendance in Edinburgh as soon as possible, so we have time to find someone to buy your ticket.

Online tickets

Unfortunately, we aren’t able to offer refunds on our online #WEM21 tickets. However, your ticket secures you much more than access to the three-day event. You’ll have access to the entire library of talks for 12 months after the conference concludes, so don’t worry if a busy schedule means you aren’t able to make the entire conference.

Changing the name on your ticket

Alternatively, if know someone who can take your place and you’d like to change the name on the ticket, please email [email protected] In this instance, you would need to organise repayment with the new ticket holder (unless you’re kindly gifting it to them, of course!)

Where can I find the #WEM21 schedule?

You can find the schedule for each of the 3 days under the Programme section. Each day is packed with fascinating and inspiring content from globally renowned experts in Expedition and Wilderness Medicine, Humanitarian, Disaster and Pre-Hospital Medicine, Space Medicine and much more.

You will also be able to view the schedule on the online platform; our virtual conference environment (more details to follow).

Please note: the schedule is based on GMT+1 time zone.

Planning your trip…

How do I get to the conference venue Dynamic Earth?

Full details about our Dynamic Earth venue can be found here.

By Foot: Located at the bottom of Holyrood Road, neighbouring the Scottish Parliament and the Palace of Holyrood House, Dynamic Earth is roughly a 15-minutes’ walk from the city centre (Princes Street).

Dynamic Earth is additionally close to the National Cycle Network. To find the nearest cycling and walking routes click here: www.sustrans.co.uk

By Car: Find us using a GPS: Holyrood Rd, Edinburgh, EH8 8AS.

The Dynamic Earth 24 hour car park is located underneath the building, for which charges do apply.

By Bus: Within Edinburgh, take the local Lothian Buses No. 35 & 6 or hop aboard any Edinburgh City sightseeing bus tour. Further information can be found here > www.lothianbuses.com

From the Airport: Dynamic Earth is 8 miles from Edinburgh Airport. Follow the A8 into the city centre and follow signs for Dynamic Earth.

Can you recommend any hotels in Edinburgh?

Yes! We’ve partnered with Convention Edinburgh to offer a number of hotels at preferential rates. Choose from the hotels listed here, or contact the friendly team at Convention Edinburgh for additional help and advice on the best hotel for your specific needs.

Email: [email protected]
Telephone: +44 (0)131 473 3874
Office hours: Monday – Friday 09:00am – 05:00pm (GMT)

What should I wear?

There is no specific dress code for this conference, we simply ask that you wear clothes!

However, for some workshops you will be outside or very hands-on, so bear this in mind when packing. We’d recommend warm and waterproof clothing to protect you against any extreme Scottish weather (you could get a little grubby!)

If you’re planning to come to our social events like the Saturday night Cèilidh, certainly bring your party clothes and dancing shoes!

Planning your weekend…

Are there any paper copies of the schedule available at the conference?

As part of our effort to minimise waste at the conference, we encourage delegates to use the schedule available on our website or via the #WEM21 app. The app has live updates and changes, so you’ll never miss a thing. There will be a few paper copies dotted around the venue for those without smartphones.

How do I book a workshop?

Workshops will be available to book from Friday 22nd October 2021, meaning you will have more time to research and plan your visit via the #WEM21 app and website.

Workshops are booked via the website – so make sure you’ve double (and triple!) checked that your login details work so you don’t miss out! If you have any issues accessing your account, send us an email to [email protected] and we’ll lend a hand.

Are workshops included in my conference ticket?

Most of the workshops are free and included in the cost of your conference ticket. There are a few workshops with costs associated:

Day 1:

  • Bandaging and Strapping in Remote Locations
  • USS Workshop
  • Expedition Dentistry Workshop

Day 2:

  • Wound Dressing Workshop
  • USS Workshop
  • Expedition Dentistry Workshop

Day 3:

  • Wound Dressing Workshop
  • USS Workshop
  • Burns Workshop
  • Caught in the Middle of a Multiple Casualty Terrorist Attack!

N.B. Subject to change.

These workshops will cost an additional £40 to attend, which covers the cost of materials and additional kit.

Do I need to book multiple workshops with the same name?

No, there are a few workshops that are repeated across the conference to allow as many people as possible to book onto the session. Each session features the same content, so you don’t need to attend more than once.

The workshops that are repeated are:

  • Wound Dressing Workshop – Day 2 and 3
  • USS Workshop – Day 1, 2 and 3
  • Expedition Dentistry Workshop – Day 1 and 2

N.B. Subject to change.

What is the Ceilidh, when is it and how do I buy a ticket?

On Sunday 14th November at 8pm, our infamous WEM Ceilidh is back for another year of fun. Pull on your dancing shoes (and kilts) and join us at ‘The Caves’, just up the road from Dynamic Earth.

For those of you that have been before, you know exactly what to expect…. for those that haven’t, don’t miss out! It’s guaranteed to be an EXTREME night in an EXTREME venue! Live music, non-stop dancing and great fun with your fellow delegates and speakers.

This year, we have a very special guest entertaining us too; we’re honoured to also be hosting world-renowned violinist Robert McDuffie who will play for us that night.

Tickets are £25 – this includes entry and a welcome drink. They will be available to purchase on our website, or you can buy them at the conference from the WEM stand in the exhibitor village.

Post-conference…

Do I get a certificate for attending?

Yes! You’ll get your own personalised certificate. These are available for collection at the end of each day at the registration desk. Make sure to pick yours up before you leave – there will be a postage fee for any that need to be sent after the conference.

Online conference attendees will receive their certificate by email after the conference.

Is the World Extreme Medicine Conference accredited?

Yes, the conference is accredited by the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh for 6 CPD per day.

If you’re undecided and want to compare the difference with our online tickets, click here.

——————————————————————–

Attending online?

Here’s everything you need to know…

Benefits of attending online:

  • Dive in deep to the digital world of #WEM21 online conference.
  • Seamless live-streamed speaker sessions – full coverage on the main stage and Salisbury room across the 3 days.
  • Virtual networking via our brand-new online platform with artificial intelligence providing beneficial matchmaking – connecting you to the right people and businesses.
  • Access to streamed workshops (where possible) though without that ‘hands-on’ experience.
  • Full access to the online platform during and after the conference – all main talks will be recorded and available for 12 months.
  • Flexible and accessible around work and home commitments
    What are the costs for attending?

Online Conference cost

3 days £199 including VAT

PLUS, as a little extra 10th anniversary special… The first 200 people to buy an online ticket will receive a WEM patch, which will be posted directly to them before the conference.

Why purchase an online ticket?

We’ve worked hard to make sure you still have a first-rate conference experience, meaning most of what you love about attending a WEM conference in person has been moved to the virtual space. We have an incredible online platform, a jam-packed schedule of talks, round-table discussions with leading experts, networking with WEM Faculty, speakers and fellow delegates, live Q&A, polls, plus a virtual exhibition hall where you can visit exhibitor booths and speak to them directly.

Is it possible to watch the conference at a later date?

We understand that our delegates are busy people from all over the globe, so if you are unable to attend the conference in person, or online that weekend, you can still buy an online ticket to have access to all conference material for 12 months afterwards.

We will also be offering the complete package of talks for purchase shortly after the conference concludes. This will be available over on the WEM Academy a week after the conference concludes.

How do I register for the WEM Online Platform?

Once you’ve purchased your online ticket, you’ll receive an email confirming your payment, the start and end times for the conference and details welcoming you to our online platform.
It’s a super easy process, but if you need any extra help, we’re around to help.

What will I need to participate?

A laptop or desktop with a webcam if you’d like to be on-screen during networking/roundtable discussions and a good internet connection. You will also need to set up your online profile (part of the sign-up process) before the conference begins.

What should I wear?

PJ’s! The great news is that you can wear whatever you like so if you’re watching from home, think cosy and comfortable – there’s no judgement here! (So long as you’re wearing something!)

Do I get a certificate for attending?

Yes! You’ll get your own personalised certificate. These will be available shortly after the conference.

Is the World Extreme Medicine Conference accredited?

Yes! The conference is accredited by the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh for 6 CPD per day – that’s 18 hours of CPD for attending all three days.

Where can I find the #WEM21 schedule?

You can find the schedule for each of the 3 days under the Programme section. Each day is packed with fascinating and inspiring content from globally renowned experts in Expedition and Wilderness Medicine, Humanitarian, Disaster and Pre-Hospital Medicine, Space Medicine and much more.

You will also be able to view the schedule on the online platform; our virtual conference environment (more details to follow).

Please note: the schedule is based on GMT+1 time zone.

If you’re undecided and want to compare the difference between coming to Edinburgh and experiencing the conference in person, click here.

Read More
JD Polk, NASA Chief Medical Officer

#WEM21 Speaker: JD Polk, NASA’s Chief Medical Officer

WEM-SocialWEM21, , , ,

We are honoured to have JD Polk join us at this year’s World Extreme Medicine Conference. As the Chief Health and Medical Officer of NASA, located at NASA Headquarters in Washington D.C he wears multiple hats at the space agency, which makes him the perfect speaker to discuss and understand how important medicine in the extremes can be to future exploration.

Having received his degree in Osteopathic Medicine from the A.T. Still University in Kirksville, Missouri, JD Polk then went on to complete his residency in emergency medicine with the Mt. Sinai hospitals via Ohio University. He also completed his training in aerospace medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch. As well as being board certified in both emergency medicine and aerospace medicine. JD Polk holds a Master in Science in Space Studies from the American Military University, a Master in Medical Management from the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business, and a Masters Certificate in Public Health from the University of New England.

As a highly distinguished medic, JD Polk is well published in the fields of emergency medicine, disaster medicine, space medicine, and medical management. He has received numerous awards and commendations including citations from the Federal Bureau of Investigations, White House Medical Unit, Association of Air Medical Services, U.S. Air Force, and has received the NASA Center Director’s Commendation, the NASA Exceptional Service Medal, the National Security and International Affairs Medal and the NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal.

JD Polk came up through the space programme, starting as one of the Rescue Forces, known as ‘air docs’, the doctors who fly on the search and rescue helicopters and then worked his way up almost through every position they had in medical at NASA. Positions he held included the rank and file Flight Surgeon going back and forth to Russia, the Chief of Medical Operations, the Chief of the Space Medicine Division, the deputy Chief Medical Officer at Johnsons Space Center and then in November 2016 JD Polk became NASA’s Chief Health and Medical Officer.

It’s a position that sees JD Polk provide oversight, policy direction and guidance to the medical and occupational care of all NASA employees – including its astronauts. He is also the health and medical technical authority for the agency, overseeing a team that serves as experts on the health specifications for vehicle development at NASA.

Throughout his career at NASA JD Polk has overseen 25 missions in different functions, between space shuttle launches, Soyuz launches, rescue surgeon for 5 different launches and landings and then the most recent NASA SpaceX Dragon launch, a historical moment which saw the first commercially built and operated spacecraft fly to the International Space Station.

As an energising and inspiring speaker, we can’t wait to welcome JD Polk to the conference.

Here is what JD Polk, had to say after speaking at the 2019 World Extreme Medicine Conference:

JD Polk, NASA Chief Medical Officer

Feeling inspired? #WEM21 A New World Awaits…

Join us this year (13th – 15th Nov) for our 10 year anniversary, where for the first time in WEM history, you can either attend in person at Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh or online via our brand new Virtual WEM Environment – we guarantee you an experience like no other! Book your place today!

Read More
Mark Hannaford World Extreme Medicine

Conference founder Mark Hannaford on why #WEM21 is so important and how it can help further your medical career

WEM-SocialWEM21, , ,

Mark Hannaford, WEM Conference Founder introduces #WEM21.

This is the 10th year we have held an annual World Extreme Medicine Conference, and we’re making it extra EXTREME! For the first time ever you can immerse yourself in person in Edinburgh or virtually in our WEM online environment 13th – 15th November and be inspired over three action-packed days as you encounter the biggest and best extreme medicine content from world renowned speakers.

Now, more than ever before, medical professionals are being asked to deliver high quality medicine in the world’s most remote areas; supporting expeditions, adventure holidays, responding to sudden-onset disasters or being deployed on humanitarian missions.

Over the 3-day conference, we will focus on a number of interrelated medical fields, covering everything from Pre-Hospital to Disaster & Humanitarian, Expedition, Endurance and Extreme Sport to Space and Extreme Medicine.

Doctors and medics who decide to work in extreme medicine will have a rewarding and dynamic career that offers plenty of diversity and challenges along the way, but it can be incredibly tough at times and individuals need to ensure they are suited to the job. You need to be able to cope with long deployments far away from home and work in situations that may expose you to things that shock you or even threaten your safety.

The aftermath of a deployment, particularly in a crisis zone, can also be difficult to navigate. It is quite common to get post-expedition blues, and medics can suffer from PTSD just like combat soldiers. For disaster medicine, you need huge adaptability and ability to respond quickly. One of the benefits of the conference is that organisations such as Medicins San Frontieres and the International Red Cross come and explain what it is they do, with feedback from medics who have already volunteered. This will cement some people’s determination to sign up, but others can see that it isn’t for them.

The military has driven many of the advances in trauma medicine which are saving lives in NHS hospitals and at road traffic accidents in the UK right now. Defence Medical Services are one of our partners and they will be on hand to talk about opportunities within the service for medics who wish to follow a military pathway.

Raleigh International is another partner organisation that needs the services of well-trained medics. They take young people on expeditions to build their confidence and increase their opportunities and they have a very well established medical system.

You don’t need to be a trauma consultant or a medical doctor to get involved. There is a great need for healthcare workers who have the skills to give ongoing treatment to people who may be swept up in a crisis situation. People around the world may be coping with the aftermath of a natural disaster, but they still need physiotherapy, maternity nurses, psychological assistance and paramedics to attend emergencies.

If you have a calling, there’s a place for you!

#WEM21 A New World Awaits…

Join us this year (13th – 15th Nov) for our 10 year anniversary, where for the first time in WEM history, you can either attend in person at Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh or online via our brand new Virtual WEM Environment – we guarantee you an experience like no other! Book your place today!

Read more on #WEM21:

#WEM21 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers (FAQ’s)
#WEM21 Speaker Announcement including keynote speaker Dr Jane Goodall

Read More
Edinburgh, Scotland

5 interesting things to see and do in Edinburgh while at the WEM Conference

WEM-SocialHomepage-list, WEM21, ,

With a dramatically beautiful Old Town, a dynamic and stunning modern New Town and historic details, monument and famous landmarks around every corner, Edinburgh is the perfect city to host our annual World Extreme Medicine Conference. Known for its innovation, discovery and progress particularly concerning medicine, Scotland’s capital city provides an abundance of activities for you to participate in and interesting places to visit and enjoy as part of your stay.

Here are a few of our recommendations for things to see and do while staying in Edinburgh:

Surgeons’ Hall Museums
A must see for any medical maverick, is a trip to the award-winning Surgeons’ Hall Museum – home to one of the largest and most historic collections of surgical pathology in the United Kingdom. Owned and founded by The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and initially established as a medical teaching resource, the Museums consist of the Wohl Pathology Museum, the History of Surgery Museum and The Dental Collection and have long since held fascinating and extensive collections of pathology, anatomy and medical ephemera. Following a major £4.4 million Heritage Lottery Funded redevelopment project, the Museums reopened in 2015 and created a new space to share the historical journey of surgery and its advances.

Mary Kings Close
Journey back in time and explore the 17th-century warren of streets hidden underneath the famous ‘Royal Mile’ that was once a breeding ground for the black death. Experience over 400 years of history, capture a unique glimpse into Edinburgh’s past and unlock the secrets of this glorious city. Wander through a labyrinth of Old Town alleyways, Explore the rooms, meet the residents and discover untold tales on this one-hour guided tour.

National Museum of Scotland
Enjoy walking around the National Museum of Scotland and taking in an eclectic collection of extraordinary treasures from around the world relating to nature, art, science and technology. Uncover the darker side of Scottish History with tales of the infamous ‘body snatchers’ William Burke and William Hare and see for yourself the tiny, four-inch-long effigies of the victims of Edinburgh’s famous anatomy murders. The taxidermy remains of ‘Dolly’, a scientific marvel and the first mammal ever cloned from an adult cell can also be found in the science and technology gallery here at the museum.

Arthur’s Seat and Holyrood Park walk
Take a couple of hours out of your day, stretch your legs and experience a proper hill walk in the heart of Edinburgh city. Start by walking to Arthur’s Seat, the highest of a group of hills that were formed from the remains of a volcano and that make up Holyrood Park. Once you reach the summit (some 251 metres high and surprisingly rocky) enjoy fabulous views across the city and beyond. Carry on walking behind the crags until you reach the top of Salisbury Crag where you will be able to look down over Holyrood Palace, the Scottish Parliament and the white roof of Dynamic Earth (home to #WEM18).

Edinburgh Castle
Dominating the skyline of the city of Edinburgh from its position on Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle is a world-famous icon and one of the most exciting historic sites in Western Europe. Rich with history and with scenery that will take your breath away, a visit to this iconic castle is a must. Explore the various attractions with a guided tour or discover the castle and its people at your own pace with an audio tour. Walk through The Great Hall, witness the firing of the One o’clock Gun, a much-loved Edinburgh tradition or seek out the Crown Jewels in the ‘Crown Room’.

We’d love to hear what you’ve got planned or get up to during your visit to our World Extreme Medicine Conference and what discoveries you’ve made during your explorations of this glorious city. Share your photos with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using #WEM21.

Read More
Will Sharp MBE, Royal Naval Medic

18 CPD credits for attending the greatest Medicine Conference in the world!

WEMC-AdminWEM21, , , ,

#WEM21: A New World Awaits

Event: World Extreme Medicine Conference 2021
Date: 13th-15th November 2021
Location: For the first time in WEM history, you can either attend in person at Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh or online via our brand new Virtual WEM Environment

The #WEM21 World Extreme Medicine Conference is a place with its foundations firmly rooted in all things remarkable, championing leaders of their fields in Extreme, Expedition and Wilderness Medicine, Disaster and Humanitarian Medicine, Pre-Hospital Medicine as well as fascinating talks on Austere Medicine, plus Space Medicine from NASA & ESA personnel over 3 electrifying, high-profile days.

To that end, just by attending the event, you’ll be awarded 6 CPD (Continued Professional Development) credits per day, accredited by the Royal College of Surgeons (Edinburgh); come for the full 3 days and you’ll earn yourself 18 CPD credits and everlasting glory*.

*Don’t quote us on this; WEM cannot guarantee everlasting glory, though we heartedly encourage you to aspire to it!

How to book your place
First off, click here to uncover and exhilarate over our (still growing) list of phenomenal speakers, then click here to see what extreme treats are in store for you on each day. (Links open in a new window, we don’t want you absconding just yet!). If you’ve already settled on a day – or 3, then click here to BOOK NOW and prepare yourself for the world’s greatest assembly of extreme medics and world-renowned guest speakers!

#WEM21 Student 3 day ticket: £429
#WEM21 Intermediate 3 day ticket: £515
#WEM21 Medic 3 day ticket: £699
#WEM21 Digital only 3 day ticket: £199

Inspired? Book your place now!
The World Extreme Medicine Conference is organised as ‘Not for Profit’ activity by our hosting company World Extreme Medicine (WEM).

What are CPD credits exactly?
In short, Continuing Professional Development (CPD) defines the engagement of professionals in activities that aid to develop their knowledge through various learning methodologies:

  • Workshops
  • Conferences
  • Best practice techniques
  • Sharing ideas
  • Online educational programmes

The primary focus is to maintain academic and practical relevance in your field, enabling you to up-skill, irrespective of your age, educational background and/or career.

I want CPD credits – sign me up!

Join your peers for the most extreme medical event of the year and help us break down inter-disciplinary barriers, build lasting bridges and network with some of the most innovative and authoritative medical minds in the world.

Then take all those CPD credits for your remarkable achievement!

P.S. World Extreme Medicine also offer a wide range of the most extreme courses in expedition, wilderness, disaster, humanitarian and pre-hospital medicine – all of which offer even more CPD credits ready to be earned – uncover them right here.

 

Other blogs that may be of interest, include:

#WEM21 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers (FAQ’s
#WEM21 Speaker Announcement including keynote speaker Dr Jane Goodall
WEM Extreme Medical Conference Inspires Career Changes
Book today and join your fellow extreme medics for inspiration and engagement that is quite literally out of this world!

Read More

Book today and join your fellow extreme medics for inspiration and engagement that is quite literally out of this world!

WEMC-AdminWEM21, , , , , ,

World-renowned experts across the medical and expedition disciplines for the first time in WEM history are returning to Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh and also online via our brand new, top of the range software in November for the largest 3-day medical event in the world and so could you. Welcome to #WEM21 – split over three action-packed days between 13th – 15th November, you’ll encounter the biggest and best content as we celebrate out 10th anniversary,  plus we’ll be making it EXTRA extreme with speakers and insights you do not want to miss!

Throughout the 2021 World Extreme Medicine Conference you’ll have the opportunity to find out more on Extreme, Expedition and Wilderness Medicine, Disaster & Humanitarian Medicine and Extreme Pre-Hospital Care and Retrieval Medicine; as well as discovering cutting-edge research, get hands-on with industry-leading practical techniques and network with like-minded medical mavericks from around the globe.

Here are just a few of the benefits:

  • Learn from 80+ of the most convention-breaking, discipline-blending, boundary-shattering medics this side of the known universe.
  • Uncover how rudimentary equipment can be used in ways you never expected to tip the balance of life and death.
  • Get your hands dirty learning cutting-edge field-proven techniques both indoors and in outdoor ‘rain or shine’ technical sessions.* (Will be streamed online, but your hands will be clean unless you come to Edinburgh!)
  • Immerse yourself in visceral real-world simulations, including our hugely popular live action ‘mass casualty’ simulation.*
  • Unlock the secrets to becoming a specialist in extreme medicine by connecting with world leaders in extreme medicine and unlock the secrets to becoming a specialist yourself – from war surgeon or humanitarian, to emergency first responder or Arctic expedition medic.
  • Network with career-defining organisations including NASA, the ICRC and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF). Our online environment will use artificial intelligence to connect you with relevant people and businesses.
  • Suit up for evening events and bracing morning runs with our team of maverick medics* (This year we even have a surprise treat – think modern Vivaldi playing exclusively for you)
  • Earn up to 18 CPD credits to prove your continued dedication to your development.

Join one of the most energetic and unique networks in the universe and be part of the world’s greatest gathering of extreme medics and thought-leaders; dedicated to inspiring and sharing medical knowledge with you.

Book your place now! 

N.B. If you are unable to attend this year’s conference, you can catch up on many of the talks through WEMAcademy – our new digital resource for extreme medical professionals.


Other blogs that may be of interest, include:

#WEM21 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers (FAQ’s)
#WEM21 Speaker Announcement including keynote speaker Dr Jane Goodall
WEM Extreme Medical Conference Inspires Career Changes
Book today and join your fellow extreme medics for inspiration and engagement that is quite literally out of this world!

Read More
Extreme Medicine

Extreme Medicine – what it is all about?

WEMC-AdminWEM21, , , , , ,

The term ‘Extreme Medicine’ was first coined by World Extreme Medicine founder Mark Hannaford  and describes the practise of medicine in remote, inhospitable and challenging environments. This is the aim of the World Extreme Medicine Conference; bringing together those with experience in this type of situation to share their knowledge and expertise and improve the level of care given.

Medicine is constantly pushed to new limits, becoming increasingly effective and advanced. Within this development of modern medicine, there stands a niche group of medical professionals carrying out lifesaving procedures in some of the world’s most dangerous and harsh settings.

Join us this year 13th-15th November 2021, where for the first time in WEM history, you can attend either in-person at Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh or via our brand-new online experience from the comfort of your home.

The conference covers a variety of different disciplines within medicine; Pre-Hospital, Disaster and Humanitarian, Expedition, Endurance, Space and Extreme Medicine. Specialists in each area will speak over the three-day conference. The talks attract a wide variety of medical professionals from many different backgrounds, including the Armed Forces, expeditioners, humanitarian medics, athletes and emergency responders.

Hear from medics who’ve learned crucial psychological tools to survive the toughest environments and challenges on earth; oxygen-rationed atop Everest, trapped under fire in a war-torn state, stranded in an Arctic snowstorm. Speakers at this year’s conference include JD Polk, NASA’s Chief Heath and Medical Officer and world renowned ethologist and environmentalist Dr Jane Goodall, with many more extreme medicine mavericks, expeditioners and world thought- leaders being added to the list.

Mark Hannaford, founder of World Extreme Medicine said:

“The World Extreme Medicine Conference is a fantastic opportunity for medical experts to congregate and share their wisdom. This is our tenth conference and it will be better than ever as we celebrate out 10th anniversary, giving everyone involved an opportunity to improve the standard of care given in challenging and far-off environments through the sharing of knowledge.

The sponsorship packages on offer cater to different levels, meaning lots of people can get involved and become part of this brilliant event.”

Join one of the most energetic and unique networks in the universe and be part of the world’s greatest gathering of extreme medics and inspiring minds; dedicated to inspiring and sharing medical knowledge with you. Book your place now!

 

Other blogs that may be of interest, include:

Read More
flexmed

FLEXmed: have a compatible Medical and Expedition Career

Ben AbbottWEM21, , , ,

Exclusively unveiled at the 2017 World Extreme Medicine Conference and one of our most popular sessions since, our panel of experts Saleyha Ashan, Linda Dykes, Pauline Cutting, Daniel Sedgewick, Alex Rowe and Sundeep Dhillon discussed how you can approach and introduce a flexible working system into your hospital department that could save you money as well as offering a variety of benefits for all medical staff – FLEXmed!

By changing attitudes and taking on a different perspective to working rosters, it allows staff to take back control of their lives and permits them to explore alternative career enhancing opportunities like expedition medicine, volunteering in local community services such as the RNLI and Air Ambulance Service, or even taking time out to pursue a dream like climbing Mount Everest.

The benefits of implementing a #FLEXmed roster programme are numerous for both the staff and the hospital:

  • It offers flexible working patterns for staff, allowing them to choose the hours they work depending on their personal preference.
  • Provides opportunities for staff to further their career by acquiring new skills.
  • Allows staff the time to find out what their passion is in life and what they want to do in the future.
  • Promotes a better quality of life with the right work/life balance.
  • Gives an innovative recruitment solution that will attract new employees into the health sector.
  • Acts as a positive influence on staff encouraging good morale, strong teamwork, and a high level of loyalty within the team.
  • Caters for staff wanting to volunteer for expedition, humanitarian and community work, which in turn will provide a great experience and relevance to their medical career.
  • As a department head, you will learn to value your trainees and take the time to understand their wants and needs.
  • Offers staff respite from the ‘hot zone’, taking them off the ‘shop floor’ and avoiding burn out, meaning they are able to provide a better quality of service.
  • By developing great job posts, you could potentially save thousands of pounds on staff wages by not having to employ agency locums.
  • Staff can still enjoy the benefits of being an NHS employee with paid holiday, sick pay and being part of a team that wouldn’t be present if you were a career locum.

How introducing an annualised roster can work for you…
Dr Rob Galloway, an A&E doctor in Brighton introduced and created the first annualised roster to provide a flexible working system for all in a ground-breaking move. He now has a team of over 20 A&E registrars working at Brighton & Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust self-rostering. An amazing achievement and one that will be made even easier with the launch of the official software at the Emergency Medicine Trainee’s Association 2017 Conference that took place in November 2017.

It was the success of this annualised working system that inspired Linda Dykes to launch #FLEXmed to the Emergency Department at Bangor Hospital, Wales. Linda first introduced annualised plans a couple of years ago and while it challenged the system and those working in it, within months the benefits were obvious with a happier and more efficient, effective workforce. Saleyha Ashan and Daniel Segwick have both worked with Linda in Bangor and experienced the benefits first-hand; with Daniel now implementing this flexible annualised job plan system into his new department where he is now working in Slough, London.

So, how does an annualised plan work? The principles are set around a unit of time, a ‘session’ and you can maximise your flexibility by choosing the sessions most compatible for you.

Annualised job plan principles:

1. Not all shifts are created equally
Each shift is the equivalent of a set number of sessions (as listed below):

Normal day shift: 8am – 4pm or 9am – 5pm = 2 sessions
Late shift: 4pm – 12pm = 2.4 sessions
Night shift: 10pm – 8am = 3.3 sessions
All weekend 10hr shifts = 3.3 sessions

This means that if you worked more night shifts or weekend shifts as they are worth more time as a session, you would work less actual days over the course of the year.

2. Annual total number of sessions you have to work
Once you know your annual allocated number of sessions, you are then in a position to choose the shifts most well-matched for you, which in turn could reduce the number of days you work throughout the year.

If we take the example of a Clinical Fellow, they need to work 420 sessions a year (traditionally 13 sessions a week). This could equate to:

• 210 day shifts
OR
• 127 night/weekend shifts

A great example of how this annualised roster plan works to the benefit of the individual is a consultant who works at Brighton Hospital full time. He takes on all manner of shifts (mainly nights and weekends) for 6 months of the year and for the remaining 6 months spends time participating in expedition and humanitarian work. He’s built up and worked all of his sessions through 6 months of mainly night and weekend work, and then reaps the benefits in the second half of the year travelling and practicing medicine outside of his ‘normal’ job.

3. You don’t have to work the same number of sessions each week
There is also flexibility in the number of sessions you work each week, so if you wanted to take a 3-week holiday, with some ‘give and take’ you can make up the missed sessions in the weeks pre-and post-holiday without taking any extra holiday or unpaid leave.

The success of this flexible working system is dependent on colleagues working together, so you complement one another’s shift patterns. To successfully implement the annualised plan into your hospital department, it’s important to remember teamwork is essential to maintain the service throughout the year and everyone must be on the same page and have realistic expectations.

We think this flexible approach to working in the NHS is a fantastic idea, that will allow staff the opportunity to experience amazing new adventures as well as acquiring new skills that can only further their medical career. For anyone looking to broaden their horizons, World Extreme Medicine offer a variety of Extreme Medicine courses around the world that provide aspiring and experienced expedition doctors, nurses, paramedics and advanced medics with the skills and practical knowledge to become valuable members of an expedition medical team.

 

Be at the forefront of medical innovation and new ways of thinking at this year’s 10th annual World Extreme Medicine Conference – book your tickets to #WEM21 now!

Read More
World Extreme Medicine Conference

6 excellent reasons to attend #WEM21

Ben AbbottWEM21, , , , , ,

Now in its 10th year, the 3 day World Extreme Medicine Conference is a powerful and high-profile event, created to break down barriers, build bridges and make connections within the extreme medicine community.

It is recognised for its world-renowned speakers, its authoritative and innovative content, plus its contribution to sharing information for those practising medicine in the most remote and austere environments known to humankind.

This amazing worldwide gathering of eclectic medical minds, thought-leaders and extreme adventurers gives you access to one of the most energetic and unique networks in the universe – a truly compelling and enticing proposition for our global audience of medical professionals.

6 excellent reasons to attend the World Extreme Medicine Conference 2021:

  • World-renowned speakers – we’re able to attract an extraordinary selection of speakers who will share their extreme experiences in fascinating talks, explain field-proven techniques, promote new approaches and best practices, and inform and educate fellow medics about the key issues and challenges being faced today in the world of extreme medicine.
  • Topics – the conference brings together four disparate but overlapping medical fields in one arena: Pre-Hospital, Disaster & Humanitarian, Expedition, and Extreme Medicine. As well as covering rescue equipment, medical supplies, generalist expedition and remote environmental kit, pharmaceuticals, and innovations and communications equipment and services.
  • Hands on experience – we host practical workshops on field-proven techniques and ‘hacks’ to inspire and enhance your skills, helping you to become a more effective and highly valued practitioner of remote medicine.
  • Networking – where else can you meet face-to-face and share experiences with a diverse mix of world-renowned experts in their fields; from Arctic explorers to vascular surgeons, remote medics, to NASA & ESA personnel. Plus, the opportunity to converse with your counterparts and colleagues from around the world.
  • Further your career – enhance your knowledge and increase your skill set to ensure you are in the best position possible to further your medical career and become a more effective and highly valued practitioner. The World Extreme Medicine Conference is accredited by the Royal College of Surgeons (Edinburgh) for 6 CPD credits per day.
  • One of a kind event – our medical conference is one like no other. The energy is unparalleled and the presence of so many awe-inspiring, talented, clever minds creates an electrifying experience you can’t afford to miss!

Whether we see you in Edinburgh or on a screen, we guarantee you an experience like no other where you’ll come away feeling inspired, re-energised and perhaps on the path towards a new career.

Be part of the world’s biggest gathering of extreme medics; dedicated to preparing, inspiring, sharing and connecting medical knowledge with you. Book your place today!

 

Others blogs that may be of interest, include:

 

Read More
Menu