The role of tactical police medics in the prehospital environment: results from an interview study

Abstract Background The Swedish tactical police unit is a highly trained team specialized in managing complex situations and tactically demanding operations. Each tactical police group includes a designated medic who completes a 10-week basic training program in tactical medicine, followed by various forms of additional training. The medical aspects of police work are strictly regulated by medical authorities, and among other restrictions, the medics’ authorizations apply only when providing care to fellow officers. The purpose of this study was to explore tactical police medics’ perceptions of their work in relation to training, competencies, tactics, and the provision of practical medical care. Method The study employed a qualitative design in which 13 medics from the tactical police unit were interviewed using a semi-structured interview protocol. They were asked questions about their perceived preparedness for the role, their training, and real-life situations in which they had acted as medics. All interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. The transcripts were then coded and analysed thematically following Braun and Clarke’s model of thematic analysis. Result The results indicated that the medics were generally satisfied with their training and education in tactical medicine. However, there was a clear discrepancy between what they had been trained to do and the tasks they actually performed in their roles. They also expressed frustration about how their mission is defined by medical authorities, particularly the restriction that prevents them from applying their medical authorizations to injured third parties. Collaboration with civilian healthcare was described as inconsistent; cooperation with prehospital physicians was generally viewed positively, whereas the relationship with ambulance personnel was perceived as more challenging. Conclusions The tactical police medics represent a highly trained and competent group that is not being utilized to its full potential. They could be deployed more extensively in situations requiring tactical medical care and rescue operations. Achieving this would require stronger and more effective collaboration with civilian healthcare services.