Correlational Analysis of Performance Outcomes during the Education of Combat Medics at the Tactical Medical Training Cell of the Belgian Defense

Combat medics must deploy multiple cognitive, manual, and social skills to perform efficient life-saving interventions and ensure the safe transportation of casualties. In 2021, the Tactical Medical Training Cell of the Belgian Army introduced an immersive and integrative educational program for Advanced Emergency Medicine Technicians (EMTa) certification. This study aims to provide a correlational analysis of performance outcomes during the certification period. While conducting their assessment, candidates were evaluated in three different but complementary roles: Medical Leader (ML), Medical Practitioner (MP), and Tactical Leader (TL). The individual outcomes in theoretical and practical examinations of one hundred thirty-seven candidates were collected during 2021 and 2022. The mean success scores for the theoretical and total practical examinations were 90.6% and 80.1%, respectively. Candidates scored significantly better as TL. Theoretical results were significantly correlated with the ML function, and performances in all three positions were correlated with each other. This study showed that within the combat medic team, individual performances, even if initially well-defined, were associated with the success rates of the other positions. This finding should be considered in the further consolidation of combat medic education.