Pre-hospital medicine degree created
The Institute of Pre-Hospital Care at London’s Air Ambulance (the Institute), and Queen Mary University of London’s Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry (QMUL) have partnered to create the UK’s first intercalated bachelors of science (BSc) degree in pre-hospital medicine, a field that is now recognised as a sub-specialty by the UK General Medical Council
The Institute of Pre-Hospital Care at London’s Air Ambulance (the Institute), and Queen Mary University of London’s Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry (QMUL) have partnered to create the UK’s first intercalated bachelors of science (BSc) degree in pre-hospital medicine, a field that is now recognised as a sub-specialty by the UK General Medical Council. Open to eligible medical students in the UK, the course will provide a strong foundation in the science and practical skills required for a successful career in pre-hospital medicine, said QMUL.
Taught modules will cover applied sciences, resuscitation science and trauma science as it is related to pre-hospital medicine, as well as integrated topics regarding the fundamental principles for operating safely and effectively as part of a team in a pre-hospital environment. A clinical applications module will enable students to learn through placements with pre-hospital medicine experts, and by otherwise engaging with clinicians and professionals concerned with the management and prevention of critical injury and illness. Finally, each student will undertake a substantial, supervised Research Project on a relevant science or social science topic.
The course, which lasts for one year, has been jointly developed and delivered by the Institute and QMUL. The faculty will be made up of professionals from both the Institute/London’s Air Ambulance and QMUL. Teaching will also be given by other experts in pre-hospital medicine and related disciplines.
Dr Gareth Grier, clinical director of the Institute and consultant at London’s Air Ambulance and Barts Health NHS Trust/The Royal London Hospital, said of the degree: “Medical students will now have a formal way of studying the scientific basis of this ever-expanding and innovative field of medicine. The BSc curriculum is extremely patient-focused, and packed with clinical case studies, so the course offers an exciting insight into this fascinating specialty for doctors of the future.”
Professor Stephen Greenwald, head of the intercalated degree programme at QMUL, commented: “I have followed the development of this new course with interest and look forward to welcoming the first cohort of students onto what I believe is an exciting development in our intercalated degree programme. The course will offer a unique opportunity for students to engage in an in-depth study of this recently recognised speciality. It is a most welcome addition to the programme.”