BATLS/BARTS training in Lithuania

Area of Science:

• Military Medicine
• Pre-hospital Trauma Care
• International Health Training

Background:

• Lithuanian Armed Forces increasing participation in multinational missions.
• Need for standardized pre-hospital trauma care training for international deployments.
• Personal experience of Lithuanian officers with the BATLS/BARTS concept.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement the BATLS/BARTS course for military pre-hospital trauma care in Lithuania.
• To ensure proper training for Lithuanian medical personnel in international missions.
• To facilitate interoperability within multinational units.

Main Methods:

• Adoption of the Swedish BATLS/BARTS course model.
• Delivery of a regular Swedish course in Lithuania.
• Instruction provided by experienced Swedish and Lithuanian instructors.

Main Results:

• Two BATLS/BARTS courses conducted in Kaunas, Lithuania.
• Training provided to 29 medical personnel, including officers, nurses, medics, civilian doctors, and students.
• Trained personnel deployed to Afghanistan, Iraq, and Kosovo, collaborating with international units.

Conclusions:

• Bi- or multinational training is essential for confidence in multinational missions.
• Standardized training like BATLS/BARTS improves preparedness and interoperability.
• The successful implementation in Lithuania demonstrates a viable model for international military medical training.