The Extreme Conditions of High Altitude Medicine: Challenges and Rewards of a Flight Paramedic with Rebekka Frieden

"Nothing is impossible if you believe in yourself, despite the difficulties you may face." Rebekka started her career as a medical technician before qualifying as a paramedic in Switzerland. After completing her Master’s degree in Mountain Emergency Medicine, she started working as a freelance flight paramedic, which led her to working as the lead critical care and flight paramedic on Denali. After working as a freelance for Air Zermatt for 3 years, she now works for them full time and is their first female paramedic. Our host Ffyon, discusses her journey into the profession, including her time spent on high patrol for Mount Denali, the highest peak in North America. We also speak to Rebekka about Air Zermatt, a helicopter-based rescue organisation in the Swiss Alps that performs various rescues, including the use of Dynamic Winching, a technique not commonly used in the UK. Join us as we delve into the mental and physical challenges of high altitude medicine and what it takes to perform rescues in some of the world's toughest terrains.