Marine environments cover over 70% of the Earth’s surface and hold more than 97% of its water supply. They are critical for global biodiversity, with over three billion people relying on these ecosystems for their livelihoods, particularly through marine fisheries. In Malaysia, the marine industry plays a significant role in trade and commerce, underscoring the need for the health and safety of individuals operating in maritime conditions.
One essential role in maritime health is that of the licensed marine pharmacist, who is responsible for inspecting ships to ensure compliance with medical regulations as outlined in the Maritime Labour Convention 2006. These pharmacists, certified under the Malaysian Shipping Notice 8/2013, serve as Medicine Chest Inspectors and conduct audits to verify that vessels meet safety and quality standards. A critical part of their responsibilities is to ensure that ships are adequately stocked with medical supplies, allowing for proper treatment of potential health issues that may arise at sea.
Given the isolated nature of sea travel, many vessels lack sufficient medical facilities, often complicating the care of sick or injured individuals. Additionally, international seafarers face challenges related to medical insurance and procedures in foreign jurisdictions. Mental health issues are also prevalent among maritime workers due to the challenging work environment and isolation.
In response to these issues, marine pharmacists work to promote awareness about self-medication among seafarers, recognizing the risks involved in taking medications without proper guidance, especially when reliable medical information is sparse. They also provide medical officers with guidance on the safe disposal of biomedical waste and conduct training for ship medical attendants in basic first aid, medication dispensing, and emergency procedures.
Marine pharmacists have adapted to modern challenges through the emergence of telehealth applications, enabling remote consultations for seafarers and passengers seeking medication advice. The integration of mobile technology allows for virtual audits of ship drug stocks, electronic certificate issuance, and improved logistics management, thereby overcoming supply chain issues and poor communication at sea.
To further enhance maritime health, there is a pressing need to attract more pharmacists to this vital sector. This can be achieved through specialized training programs, awareness campaigns about career opportunities in maritime health, and collaborations between educational institutions and the maritime industry. Continued investment in technological innovations holds the potential to elevate healthcare standards at sea, ensuring that seafarers are adequately supported in their roles.
Dr. Ganesh Sritheran Paneerselvam and Prof. Long Chiau Ming emphasize the importance of pharmacists in navigating the complexities of maritime health, highlighting the necessity for ongoing initiatives to improve healthcare outcomes for those working in marine environments.
