14/11/2025
International Medical Guide for Ships, 3rd Edition
The International Medical Guide for Ships (IMGS), 3rd Edition is one of the most essential medical publications required on board any seagoing vessel. Developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), this guide provides clear, practical, and step-by-step instructions for diagnosing and managing medical conditions at sea — especially when no doctor is available.
What makes this book invaluable is its structure. Every chapter is written in a way that allows non-medical personnel, including ship officers and designated medical responders, to quickly identify symptoms, assess severity, and apply the correct treatment. From injuries and infections to common illnesses and life-threatening emergencies, the guide offers straightforward explanations supported by diagrams, treatment tables, and decision pathways.
Onboard a ship, where medical help can be hours or days away, this guide serves as a critical quick reference. It helps crew members:
✅Recognise symptoms accurately
✅Decide when urgent intervention is needed
✅ Use the ship’s medicine chest correctly
✅Administer first-line treatment safely
✅Communicate effectively with telemedical support services (TMAS)
In emergencies, clarity saves lives. The IMGS 3rd Edition gives officers a dependable source of information that reduces hesitation, supports confident decision-making, and ensures the crew receives appropriate care until professional medical assistance is reached.
Having this guide onboard isn’t just about compliance — it’s about preparedness. It ensures that every vessel is equipped with the knowledge necessary to protect the health and safety of its people.
