The Medical Care (MC) course is an advanced, high-level training program designated for officers—primarily Chief Mates and Masters—who are responsible for taking charge of medical care on board a vessel. In the isolated environment of the open sea, where a ship can be thousands of miles from the nearest hospital, the person in charge of medical care must possess clinical skills that go far beyond basic first aid. This comprehensive course, regulated by the DGS and aligned with the STCW Code, provides the technical and practical knowledge required to manage serious illnesses and injuries, perform minor surgical procedures, and administer complex medications under the guidance of radio-medical advice.The curriculum for the Medical Care course is rigorous and covers a vast range of medical disciplines. Trainees delve into human anatomy, pharmacology, and the diagnosis of common tropical and infectious diseases. Practical sessions include training in advanced wound management, such as suturing (stitching) and clamping, as well as the administration of injections and the use of specialized medical equipment like oxygen resuscitators and blood pressure monitors. A significant emphasis is placed on "Radio Medical Advice," teaching officers how to communicate vital clinical data to shore-based doctors to receive life-saving instructions. The course also addresses the sensitive aspects of death at sea, mental health management, and the maintenance of a ship’s medical chest and clinical records.Successful completion of this course equips senior officers with the confidence and competence to act as the primary medical provider on board. It is a mandatory requirement for those seeking high-level Certificates of Competency and is critical for ensuring the health and safety of the entire crew during long-voyage missions. By mastering these clinical skills, maritime professionals fulfill a vital duty of care, ensuring that even in the most remote corners of the globe, medical emergencies are handled with professional precision and empathy.
