The Light Role CCP: A Blueprint for Far Forward Medical Support to Contemporary Operations.

Area of Science:

• Military Medicine
• Emergency Medical Services
• Trauma Care

Background:

• UK Defence Medical Services deployed a unique far-forward medical support capability in November 2018.
• This involved 'light role' casualty collection points providing emergency care to 475 casualties over four months.
• Operational success depended on maintaining a light and agile profile, presenting logistical challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the deployment of a novel far-forward medical support capability.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of 'light role' casualty collection points in a deployed setting.
• To identify lessons learned for future contingency operations.

Main Methods:

• Deployment of a specialized medical team for far-forward support.
• Establishment of 'light role' casualty collection points near front lines.
• Provision of early Damage Control Resuscitation, including blood products.
• Bespoke solutions developed for documentation and blood warming.
• Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) to Role 2 facilitated by indigenous forces.

Main Results:

• Provided emergency medical care to 475 casualties.
• Predominant caseload included secondary blast injuries and gunshot wounds (GSW).
• Enabled early Damage Control Resuscitation and blood product delivery at Role 1.
• Demonstrated the feasibility of light and agile medical support operations.
• Bespoke solutions were successfully implemented for documentation and blood warming.

Conclusions:

• The deployed far-forward medical support capability was effective in providing critical care.
• Early intervention with Damage Control Resuscitation and blood products improved casualty management.
• Logistical and clinical challenges were overcome through agile solutions.
• Lessons learned offer a potential blueprint for future military medical contingency operations.