Introducing the American College of Emergency Physicians Cruise Ship Medicine Section Newsletter

Ruben Parejo, MD

Advancing Maritime Medicine and Fostering Cooperation 

We are thrilled to announce the inaugural edition of the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) Cruise Ship Medicine Section Newsletter, a quarterly publication dedicated to the cruise industry. Chaired and edited by the Section’s Leadership, this newsletter marks a significant step towards advancing cruise ship medicine and fostering cooperation among Cruise Line International Association member lines. 

The primary aim of this newsletter is to address the crucial need for effective communication within the cruise ship medicine community. As we push the boundaries of healthcare at sea, it is vital to keep all stakeholders informed and engaged. This platform will serve as a bridge, linking various cruise lines, healthcare professionals, and industry leaders in meaningful dialogue. 

The newsletter will spotlight the latest advancements in maritime or cruise ship medicine, showcasing innovative practices and research shaping the future of healthcare on cruise ships. By sharing knowledge and experiences, we can collectively enhance the quality of medical care provided to passengers and crew members alike. 

The newsletter will highlight cross-brand collaborative efforts and joint initiatives that aim to tackle common challenges faced by medical teams in the industry. By working together, we can create a cohesive and resilient healthcare framework that benefits all. 

Active participation from various cruise lines is fundamental to the success of our endeavors. The yearly Cruise Ship Medicine Section (CSMS) session at ACEP is the forum where critical decisions affecting the entire industry are made. We urge all stakeholders to be actively involved in these sessions, contributing their insights and perspectives to shape policies and best practices, and to remain attentive to any communications issued by the CSMS such as our recent request for feedback on the implementation of ultrasound onboard cruise ships.  

Our section has a unique opportunity to represent the cruise industry at various forums organized by the American College of Emergency Physicians. These forums are instrumental in writing new policies, updating existing ones, and disseminating best practices among members. Your participation ensures that the unique challenges of maritime and cruise ship medicine are effectively addressed and that our industry's voice is heard. 

The presence and input of different cruise lines bring new perspectives, foster collaboration, and ensure that our collective goals are met. This newsletter aims to enhance communication and encourage active participation from all stakeholders, reinforcing the importance of our shared mission. 

Each section within ACEP can send a representative to the annual ACEP Council meetings for every 100 section members. As of the end of 2024, our section boasts 147 members. This representation is crucial for voicing our collective concerns and advocating for the needs of our industry.  

Cruise Ship Medicine Section Meeting at ACEP24
Las Vegas, September 2024

We look forward to hearing from you, whether through participation in meetings or by writing to us. Your feedback and contributions are invaluable as we strive to represent your cruise line's interests at ACEP effectively. 

We invite you to be an active part of this exciting journey. Together, we can drive positive change, improve healthcare standards, and ensure the well-being of all who sail on cruise ships. Stay tuned for insightful articles, updates, and opportunities to engage with the cruise ship medicine community. 

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to advancing cruise ship medicine. We are here to represent and serve you at the American College of Emergency Physicians.