Development of the naval medicine in Bulgaria

Abstract

Twenty years ago, when the post of ship physician was almost mandatory, ship doctors (especially in merchant navy and fishing vessels) were often considered unnecessary. To ensure health and treatment on board, every seaman needs to know the first aid basics. Well-equipped, competent medical staff will effectively cure most injuries on board and thus reduce the number of expensive and inconvenient helicopter evacuations, ship detours and port links. Marine medicine training has been launched for five years now and is unique to university education in Bulgaria.