A senior medical officer became Ireland’s first graduate of military medicine in what has been described as a “landmark” development for the Defence Forces.
Comdt (Dr) Fiachra Lambe graduated from the higher specialist training scheme in military medicine at McKee Barracks in Dublin last week, after which he was formally admitted as a member of the Faculty of Military Medicine in Ireland. The faculty was founded in 2012 and the specialty was recognised by the Medical Council in 2015.
Military medicine constitutes the art and science of medicine as practised in the Defence Forces or other military environments. It encompasses a wide range of disciplines, from emergency medicine and trauma care to public health and operational planning.
Initial specialist training is conducted over two years, with trainees being commissioned into the permanent Defence Forces in the rank of lieutenant. They are then released to rotate through hospital posts in medicine, paediatrics, emergency medicine, psychiatry and an optional placement in an additional suitable post. Following this, higher specialist training is conducted over three years with trainees promoted to the rank of captain (medical officer).
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Col (Dr) Anthony Corcoran, director medical branch of the Defence Forces, said the dedication and hard work of Comdt Lambe reflects “the values and commitment that are at the core of the Irish Defence Forces”.
“His pioneering role as the first graduate of military medicine sets a standard for future officers and highlights the vital role of medical professionals in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of our personnel both at home and abroad,” he said.
Serving personnel of the Defence Forces medical corps had made invaluable contributions to delivery of the training programme, in particular as military medicine trainers and tutors, and in the conduct of assessments, he added.
“It is an honour to be the first graduate of military medicine in Ireland. I am grateful to the educators and colleagues that supported me in the journey to arrive at this juncture,” Comdt Lambe said.
“I am most grateful for the unwavering support of my wife, Ciara. I look forward to using my knowledge to improve medical care of Defence Forces members and hope to advance the Faculty of Military Medicine of Ireland.”
The Defence Forces described it as a “landmark achievement”, stating that it highlighted the “growing recognition of the need for specialised medical expertise within the military to meet the demands of modern defence operations”.
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