ExpedMed

Expedition Medicine

Find interviews, tips, personal accounts, and more on the fields of medicine which focus on providing medical support and research to expeditions in austere or isolated areas, medical missions, or humanitarian relief in disaster areas.

Column Editor: Sarah Spelsberg MD, FAWM, FEWM

The Ultimate Medevac

Sarah Spelsberg MD, FAWM, FEWM
February 10, 2026

NASA has carried out its first-ever medical return from orbit, bringing SpaceX Crew-11 home early after a health concern aboard the ISS. The unprecedented decision marks a milestone in aerospace medicine and emergency planning in space.

Menstruation and the Modern Expeditioner

Sarah Spelsberg MD, FAWM, FEWM
December 4, 2025

This article delves into how menstruation impacts expedition-ready women and those who care for them. Covering hygiene in remote settings, cycle control, product planning, and inclusive prep for wild environments.

Medicine Experiences Help Clinicians Combat Burnout and Rekindle Purpose

Sarah Spelsberg MD, FAWM, FEWMHon. Prof. Mark Hannaford D.Sc. (h.c) FEWM
June 20, 2025

In a 2023 report 53% of physicians reported burnout. We must rekindle purpose and encourage institutions to evolve and provide effective support.

Climbing the Moral Summit

Sarah Spelsberg MD FAWM FEWM
January 15, 2025

Duty, Risk, and Rescue in Extreme Environments

Diving into History with Dr. Dituri

Sarah Spelsberg MD, FAWM, FEWMJoseph Dituri, PhD
August 20, 2024

Project NEPTUNE 100 - a record-setting 100-day undersea endurance mission at 1.67 ATA in the Jules Undersea Habitat and its physiologic findings, remote-medical logistics, and implications for isolated-confined environments.