Marine Medical Solutions is raising awareness to the urgent need for an updated edition of the International Medical Guide for Ships, last published in May 2007.
This guide, essential for providing medical care onboard ships, serves as the primary reference for pharmacies that supply the list of essential medicines for seafarers. Doctor Jens Tülsner, CEO of Marine Medical Solutions, has raised concerns about the outdated nature of the guide, emphasising that advancements in medicine over the past 15 years have not been reflected in the current recommendations.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has not updated the guide since 2007, which means that the list of essential medicines onboard ships may not include the latest and most effective treatments available today.
… said Doctor Jens Tülsner, CEO of Marine Medical Solutions
In the meantime, flag states and organizations have become active in order to achieve progress in this area: For example, the Maritime Medical Service of the German flag has published a completely revised version of the “Maritime Medical Handbook” for ships flying the German flag in 2019 / 2020 (German / English version), including adaptations of the medical equipment on board.
In 2023 the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) has provided a new handbook aimed at improving onboard medical care. None of them have been adopted by the IMO.
Doctor Tülsner believes that incorporating the expertise of medical professionals in the creation and regular updating of the essential medicines list would significantly enhance the healthcare provided to seafarers.
