A study published in 2013 in the International Maritime Health journal, which sampled 23,299 commercial ships with 420,000 crewmembers, found that one in five ships is forced to divert course for medical reasons each year, at a total cost of $168m to the industry.
Health problems, occupational illnesses and acute events requiring medical intervention are more common among seafarers than the general population.
However, access to medical services is not just difficult but practically impossible at sea, especially on long journeys. The level of care provided is lower than the relevant standards, leading to increased morbidity and costs.
The research project “Elearning platform for Seafarers for first aid and health issues”- SeaHealth (Υγεία εν πλω) through the Operational Program Competitiveness, Entrepreneurship and Innovation under the call RESEARCH –CREATE –INNOVATE will be implemented from SQLearn and Danaos Management Consultants in collaboration with the 1stOtolaryngology Clinic of National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (UOA).