Ship Navigation Systems

Ship Navigation Systems

Medical Deviations in Commercial Shipping: An In-Depth Analysis

In the world of commercial shipping, deviations—changes from a ship’s planned course—sometimes become necessary due to medical emergencies involving crew members. While these deviations are vital for protecting the crew’s health, they also create significant operational and financial challenges. Therefore, this article explores the causes, financial impact, and ways to minimize the need for medical deviations through proactive measures and improved onboard care.

Prevalence and Causes of Medical Deviations

Medical emergencies on ships occur for various reasons, including sudden illnesses, injuries, or worsening chronic conditions. According to studies, about 1–3% of seafarers experience health problems during their careers that require medical attention. Because access to advanced medical care is limited at sea, emergencies often force the ship to change its course. As a result, these deviations are both common and costly.

Common Causes of Medical Deviations

Medical deviations are often triggered by serious health conditions. For example, these include:

• Heart Problems: Conditions like heart attacks and strokes are common among seafarers, especially due to stress and long hours.
• Digestive Problems: Issues such as appendicitis or gallbladder infections can quickly worsen without immediate surgery.
• Accidents and Injuries: Falls, deep cuts, and fractures frequently occur during rough weather or heavy lifting tasks.
• Breathing Issues: Severe asthma attacks or infections like pneumonia may require urgent medical care.

Financial Impact of Medical Deviations

Medical deviations have a significant financial impact on shipping companies. Not only do they involve direct costs, but they also lead to indirect expenses that affect the ship’s overall profitability. Consequently, understanding these costs is crucial for shipping operators.

Direct Costs

• Fuel Costs: A deviation that adds 200 extra nautical miles can cost between $30,000 and $50,000 in fuel, depending on fuel prices and the ship’s efficiency.
• Port Charges: Unplanned stops at ports include extra docking fees and service costs, further increasing expenses.

Indirect Costs

• Delays: Changing the ship’s route causes delivery delays, which can result in penalties and harm to customer relationships.
• Insurance Costs: Repeated medical deviations can lead to higher insurance premiums and stricter coverage terms over time.

Case Study: Medical Repatriation Costs

Research by Hansen et al. (2017) found that the average cost of repatriating a sick crew member is approximately $56,000. Of this amount, deviation costs account for around $15,500, or 27.7% of the total cost. As a result, these findings highlight the significant financial burden medical deviations place on shipping companies.

How Long Do Delays Last?

The length of delays caused by medical deviations depends on several factors, such as the ship’s location, the severity of the medical issue, and the availability of nearby medical facilities. On average, these delays range from 1 to 3 days. However, in more remote areas, delays can extend for much longer, leading to further complications.

Preventing Medical Deviations

Although some medical deviations are unavoidable, many can be prevented through proactive planning and improved medical preparedness. By focusing on prevention, shipping companies can reduce both the risks to crew members and the financial costs of these events. Below are some key strategies for reducing the need for deviations.

1. Pre-Employment Health Screenings

Screening new crew members for medical conditions before they join a ship helps identify and manage potential risks. For instance, early detection of heart or lung conditions allows for proper treatment, reducing the likelihood of emergencies at sea.

2. Medical Training for Crew Members

Providing basic medical training to crew members enables them to recognize early signs of illness and offer initial care. For example, trained crew members can stabilize an injured person until professional help becomes available. Moreover, this training improves the crew’s ability to handle emergencies confidently.

3. Using Telemedicine Services

Telemedicine allows ships to connect with shore-based doctors for real-time medical advice. As a result, many health problems can be resolved on board without needing a deviation. Furthermore, telemedicine provides immediate guidance during emergencies, which can make a critical difference in patient outcomes.

4. Promoting Healthy Lifestyles

Encouraging crew members to maintain healthy habits, such as eating balanced diets, exercising, and managing stress, reduces the risk of preventable health issues. For instance, promoting weight management and reducing smoking among crew members can lower the likelihood of heart problems and respiratory diseases.

Conclusion

Medical deviations are sometimes unavoidable, as they are essential for safeguarding the health of crew members. However, they also carry high costs and disrupt operations. By implementing preventive measures such as health screenings, onboard medical training, telemedicine, and wellness programs, shipping companies can significantly reduce the frequency of such events. As a result, these efforts not only improve crew safety but also save time and money, enhancing the efficiency of maritime operations.

References

1. Hansen, H. L., Tüchsen, F., & Hannerz, H. (2017). The costs of repatriating an ill seafarer: a micro-costing approach. Health Economics Review, 7(1), 1-8.
2. Oldenburg, M., Baur, X., & Schlaich, C. (2010). Occupational risks and challenges of seafaring. Journal of Occupational Health, 52(5), 249-256.
3. Carter, T. (2011). Working at sea and psychosocial health problems. Report of an International Maritime Health Association Workshop.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What is the role of navigation systems on ships?

   • Navigation systems provide precise information about the ship’s course, speed, and location, ensuring safe and efficient sailing. They also help avoid collisions and manage risks during the voyage.

2. How can navigation systems reduce costs in shipping?

   • By providing accurate navigation, these systems reduce fuel consumption, prevent unexpected deviations, and optimize delivery times, saving money for shipping companies.

3. What are the key features a modern navigation system should have?

   • A modern navigation system should include high-accuracy GPS, sensors and radar for obstacle detection, integration with maps and monitoring systems, and connectivity with shore-based control centers.