What are the biggest challenges I will face as a medic?
A medic’s biggest challenge by far is driving and navigating to and from their work site. Driving conditions often include slippery roads (ice or mud), low visibility (blowing snow or fog), and high winds. Some roads are gravel and are not always well maintained, and often four wheel drive is needed. Occasionally you may be required to use chains for traction. Finding your way to the work site can be challenging as there are few landmarks and roads are often unmarked. Directions will often require keeping track of kilometers and compass bearing. An example would be: “travel north on the Alaska Highway to High Line Rd East… Take the turnoff for 5.2 km, then turn north onto the 319 access road for 36 km… Turn east at 36 km for another 16.5 km, then go south for 2.2 km. until you reach Blakely Camp.” We do have check-in protocols when our medics are traveling, and there is always communication open between the medic and dispatcher to deal with any situation that may arise. Another cha
