Coral Reefs and Remote Medicine: A doctor’s dive into Marine Conservation in Sulawesi

Picture this: a remote island paradise with pristine white beaches, lush jungles, and cosy huts overlooking the ocean. A passionate team of instructors and conservationists from all corners of the globe surrounds you. Diving into the crystal-clear water, you’re greeted by a kaleidoscope of vibrant corals and schools of fish darting around breathtaking underwater landscapes. And you are not just a spectator; you’re actively involved in empowering young minds to learn about the environment, gain diving skills, and develop valuable life skills for a bright future.

 

 

This was my incredible reality during the summer of 2024 as the resident medic on the Operation Wallacea flagship marine conservation project on Hoga Island. As a GP with a background in dive medicine, emergency care, and a deep love for wilderness and expedition medicine, I had been following Opwall since 2016. When I received an email asking if I knew anyone available to cover a medical gap for a dive expedition in the summer of 2023, I had just returned from a dive medicine course in the Red Sea and jumped at the chance. That summer was an unforgettable experience, and I knew I had to return for a full season the following year.

 

 

Operation Wallacea (OPWALL)

Opwall is a fantastic organisation dedicated to conservation research. They run biodiversity and conservation management programs in remote locations worldwide, collaborating with student volunteers and scientists to gather crucial data on threatened habitats. This information is invaluable for guiding conservation efforts.

In Indonesia, Opwall focuses on the incredibly biodiverse Wallacea region within the Coral Triangle. Their marine research base is in the stunning Wakatobi National Park, a haven for coral reefs and marine life. Here, they conduct a range of research projects, including monitoring coral reef health, running coral nurseries and reef recovery projects, surveying marine fish and invertebrates, and working with local communities to develop sustainable fishing practices. Opwall’s work in Indonesia is significantly contributing to our understanding of this vital ecosystem. The data they collect helps inform conservation strategies, supports protected areas, and raises awareness about the importance of marine biodiversity. By involving students and volunteers, Opwall is inspiring and empowering the next generation of conservationists.

 

 

The Life of an Expedition Medic

Being the project medic is a demanding but incredibly rewarding role. You’re responsible for the health and safety of everyone on the expedition, from health briefings and primary health care to emergency care. Hoga Island’s remote location adds an extra layer of challenge and adventure. It took me four flights, four land transfers, and two ferry trips to get there from the UK, culminating in an exciting cross-deck transfer onto one of the expedition dive boats.

Opwall provides a comprehensive medical kit and a dedicated medical hut, and managing the supplies and equipment is another aspect of the job. I would categorise the work as low intensity but high alertness. While you’re unlikely to experience the same constant pressure as a busy GP clinic or emergency department, you need to be constantly observant, accessible, and prepared to handle any medical issue, big or small, at any time of day or night. Holding clinics twice daily and being visible and approachable helps manage minor illnesses and prevents them from escalating. As an expedition and dive medic, you’ll become very familiar with ear problems and minor wound management.

 

 

The tropical climate and marine environment present specific risks that require pre-deployment preparation and ongoing training. Engaging the team in drills like “Diver Lost” and “In Water Rescue” is essential for building confidence and ensuring everyone is prepared for emergencies. There are moments of excitement, like late-night calls for help, treating local fishermen stung by stingrays, assessing injuries from falls, and managing dislocated joints. The close-knit and supportive team is invaluable in these situations. Assessing divers in training and balancing medical risks with their goals requires a broad understanding of both health aspects and the bigger picture. Clear communication and collaboration with everyone involved are key.

While medical care is the priority, there are also opportunities to explore Hoga and Wakatobi. I was able to dive most days, including occasional night dives, and assist with scientific diving, reef surveys, and the coral nursery project. Diving daily in the same areas provided a unique perspective on marine life and their fascinating behaviours.

 

 

Challenges and Rewards

Being an expedition medic definitely has its challenges. Hoga island’s remote location is the most significant. With a minimum of 8 hours to reach the nearest hospital, you need to be confident in providing prolonged casualty care. As the sole medic on site, you need to be experienced and equipped to handle any situation and possess the interpersonal skills to navigate team dynamics and the potential stresses of both high-pressure incidents and periods of relative inactivity.

However, the rewards are immense. Taking a break from your usual routine and experiencing a simpler way of life is incredibly refreshing. Witnessing breathtaking sunsets over the ocean and building lasting connections with a wonderful group of people.

 

 

LinkedIn – www.linkedin.com/in/kam-khan-844aaa4

Photos taken by Dr Kamran Khan