This week, Aebhric O’Kelly talks with Alan O'Brien, OB, who is a paramedic from Ireland with a military background; they discuss his journey from the Irish Army to becoming a paramedic. He shares insights into the evolution of paramedic training in Ireland, the importance of academic pathways for military medics, and the significance of the NATO Special Operations Combat Medic (NSOCM) programme. The conversation also touches on the role of drones in modern combat medicine and the need for standardised medical training across NATO countries. In this conversation, OB discusses various aspects of military medical training, focusing on the NATO SOMT course, the future of the NSOCM programme, and the challenges faced in sustainment training for medics. He shares insights into the Irish Army Ranger Wing and the Nordic programme's impact on medical training. OB also outlines his aspirations for developing a master's programme in security and defence medicine and offers valuable advice for new medics entering the field.

Takeaways

Alan O'Brien is a paramedic with a military background.

He transitioned from the Irish Army to paramedic training.

The paramedic training programme in Ireland has evolved significantly.

Academic pathways are crucial for military medics post-service.

The NSOCM programme standardises medical training across NATO.

Drones are becoming increasingly influential in combat medicine.

The gap between paramedic and advanced paramedic roles is decreasing.

Military medics need academic recognition for their training.

Standardised training improves interoperability among NATO forces.

Understanding modern threats is essential for medical training. The NATO SOMT course is based on the Canadian SOMT program.

SOMTs are support medics skilled in advanced medical techniques.

NSOCM is evolving to include advanced medical skills training.

Time constraints are a significant challenge for medics.

Clinical placements are crucial for maintaining skills.

The Irish Army Ranger Wing was established for counterterrorism.

The unit is modeled on tier one special operations forces.

The Nordic program enhances medical training across countries.

A master's program in security and defence medicine is in development.

New medics should take ownership of their skill set.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Alan O'Brien and His Background

02:59 Transition from Military to Paramedic Training

05:56 The Evolution of Paramedic Training in Ireland

08:54 Academic Pathways for Military Medics

12:03 The NSOCCM Program and Its Importance

16:50 The Role of Drones in Modern Combat Medicine

25:47 Understanding the NATO SOMT Course

28:11 The Future of NSACM and Advanced Medical Skills

32:21 Challenges in Sustainment Training for Medics

34:28 Designing an Effective NSOCCM Sustainment Course

41:12 Insights into the Irish Army Ranger Wing

46:07 The Nordic Program and Its Impact

48:20 Future Aspirations and Advancements in Medical Training

52:16 Advice for New Medics and Medical Personnel