The Californer - Catalina Island Medical Center's Dr. Edwin McGroarty Provides Medical Training To Ukraine

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He joined other volunteers through an organization called Task Force Yankee Ukraine which sends doctors and prior military medics to Ukraine who want to improve the care of wounded soldiers and civilians.

CATALINA ISLAND, Calif. - Californer -- Dr. Edwin McGroarty, chief of staff at Catalina Island Medical Center, recently returned from Ukraine where he spent 3 ½ weeks providing medical training and support to Ukrainian military personnel and civilians. He joined other volunteers through an organization called Task Force Yankee Ukraine which sends doctors and prior military medics to Ukraine who want to improve the care of wounded soldiers and civilians.

While there, McGroarty helped develop an advanced combat medic course and stabilization point courses. Stabilization points are where patients are cared for once they have been extracted from care under fire. The courses give Ukrainian medics the skills to treat 90 to 95 percent of the wounds and injuries they would typically encounter. He also helped train civilians and police by participating in "stop the bleed" courses on how to pack wounds and use tourniquets.

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"I was overwhelmingly impressed by the character and strength of the Ukrainian civilian population as well as the military personnel," said McGroarty. "Everyone was motivated to defend their freedom and it was humbling and inspiring to be able to serve the cause."

McGroarty's experience as a rural emergency room physician, prior combat deployed medical officer and former educator made him well suited for his work in Ukraine. His time in the country made an impact on him.

"Watching a group of people who are singularly focused on defending their freedom and exercising their right to independence was an absolute privilege," he says. "Participating in helping them learn how to care for their wounded and save lives was truly one of the most fulfilling experiences in medicine I have had. I had a hard time leaving."

McGroarty continues to be involved with Task Force Yankee Ukraine by advising on medic training courses, consulting with frontline medics and acting as senior medical advisor for Sabre Tactical Advisory Group based in Ukraine.

To donate to Task Force Yankee Ukraine, contact Neil Macready, chief development officer, Catalina Island Medical Center Foundation (https://www.cimcfoundation.org/) at 213-280-9115 or nmacready@cimedicalcenter.org.