230: Guerrilla Medicine: One Surgeon’s Experience with a Modern Resistance Movement

Last Updated: July 24, 2025

Since the vast majority of you guys couldn’t go to SOMSA ’25, I’m bringing SOMSA ’25 to you. Paul and I got our steps in this year and recorded a ton of presentations. These presentations with slides will only be available for subscription members…Enjoy

In this episode of the PFC Podcast, Dr. Jason Hiles discusses the challenges and strategies of providing medical care in unconventional warfare environments. He shares insights from his experiences in Southeast Asia, focusing on the importance of adaptability, community engagement, and training local medics to ensure sustainable healthcare practices in resource-limited settings. The conversation covers various surgical techniques, trauma management, and the significance of building trust within the communities served.

Takeaways:

The need for trained personnel in war zones is critical. Adaptability in surgical techniques is essential in resource-limited environments. Community engagement fosters trust and improves healthcare access. Surgical care must be tailored to the specific needs of the environment. Triage and evacuation strategies are vital in managing war wounds. Training local medics ensures continuity of care after foreign personnel leave. Simplicity in medical kits can enhance operational efficiency. Understanding local customs and languages improves patient care. The impact of war on civilian health requires innovative solutions. Building relationships with local communities can lead to better health outcomes.