Belgian medical universities have reportedly received letters from the government urging them to focus more on preparing students for roles in both civilian and military emergency situations.
According to The Brussels Times, the letter, sent in December 2024 to university leaders, emphasizes the importance of equipping medical students with the skills to handle emergency scenarios, particularly those arising from wartime, “due to the growing complexity and instability of the global situation and the need to enhance our healthcare system’s resilience and strengthen military-civilian medical cooperation.”
The letter highlights that closer collaboration between the military medical service, the Ministry of Health, and the National Crisis Center will better prepare future healthcare professionals for various crises, including those involving chemical, biological, and radiological threats, as well as explosions.
Additionally, the letter addresses topics such as the use of whole blood and blood components in crises, medical ethics in emergencies, first aid for acute stress reactions, and understanding medical work within NATO frameworks.
A special working group has already been formed by the government, with universities sending experts to discuss the necessary updates to medical programs.
