When a soldier is wounded or injured, just a few minutes can make the difference between life and death. The multi-stage system of casualty care has so far proven its worth in missions abroad.
In addition to the well-trained medical forces, servicemen and women play an important role at the point of injury, by administering either self-aid or buddy aid.
Patients who receive medical treatment within an hour of being wounded or injured have a significantly higher chance of survival. This timeframe is backed up by medical research. During the so-called “golden hour of shock” after an accident or attack, initial measures must be taken to treat physical trauma.
The continuum of care follows the principle of the “golden hour”. This prevents the patient dying from non-fatal injuries, such as severe bleeding or blocked airways. If the continuum of care is sustained, the casualty not only has a better chance of survival but, in the long-run, also a higher quality of survival. Thanks to regular medical training courses, every soldier is a qualified mission first aid provider A and, as such, prepared for medical emergencies.
Along the evacuation chain, there are various stages of medical support known as “Roles”. Each Role refers to specific medical treatment options. In the event of injury, the first step is to immediately administer self-aid or buddy aid, after which the casualty will pass through four further Roles. In Roles 1 to 3, medical care is provided in various mobile facilities. Once in Germany, Bundeswehr hospitals and civilian facilities can be used for Role 4 treatment.
The military continuum of care combines medical care of the highest quality with military tactical precision.
Every stage of the continuum of care represents defined medical capabilities and the facilities and personnel they require. Modular containers and tents are used to provide the facilities for Roles 1 to 3 – the mobile aid station, mobile surgical hospital and field hospital.