As a result, Cambodia has one of the highest concentrations of mines and unexploded ordnances in the world. Surveys have identified over 4,000 square kilometers of suspect land. These hazards significantly mitigate efforts to rehabilitate and develop these areas. It is estimated that landmines cause 800 casualties per year in Cambodia.
In August, 2008, GlobalMedic deployed Paramedic Instructor Robin Young to Cambodia to facilitate GlobalMedic's Trauma Management and Field Medicine for Landmine /UXO Clearance Teams. Mr. Young trained members of Mine Action Group Cambodia's Landmine Clearance Personnel at a training facility in Seam Reap. He also conducted a needs assessment of the medical support programs for MAG Cambodia's UXO clearing operations and making recommendations for program enhancement.
Following the completion of this program, the medics will be tasked with teaching Basic First Aid, Spinal Immobilization, and CPR/Airway clearing procedures to the UXO Clearance teams. The goal of this is two-fold. First, it gives the UXO team members knowledge that will allow them to assist the medics if/when called upon, and secondly, it enhances the medics own self confidence (by teaching), as well as increases the confidence that the technicians have in their medics, thereby reinforcing the position that the medic holds in the team.
The final exam of the program is designed to show the medics proficiency in the knowledge newly acquired. It is composed of a series of practical scenarios, involving both single and multiple patients, and deals with real life situations that the medics may find themselves involved in. These exercises were designed so that the medic would have to utilize the UXO Technicians for assistance. Therefore, not only is the medic's knowledge being tested, but also their ability to direct others.
