NASA: There is no professional doctor stationed on the International Space Station (ISS). Despite this, NASA has made very strict and modern arrangements to protect the health of astronauts. In the year 2026, a spacewalk had to be canceled due to a serious medical problem and consideration was given to returning the crew to Earth early. This incident once again showed how important NASA’s preparations are to deal with medical emergencies in space.
Separate flight surgeon for each crew
NASA assigns a special space medicine doctor, called a flight surgeon, to every space mission. This doctor conducts a complete medical examination of the astronauts before the mission and monitors their health from Earth during the flight. Even after the mission is over, he is responsible for recovery and follow-up.
Astronauts become medical responders
All astronauts present on the ISS are given emergency medical training. They receive intensive training in first aid, trauma care and use of essential medical equipment. Every crew member has a medical kit, which includes modern technology like trauma tools and ultrasound, so that in case of emergency, immediate investigation can be done.
Treatment is done through telemedicine
A secure telemedicine system exists between the ISS and Earth. In case of any health problem, astronauts can directly seek advice from flight surgeons and specialist doctors present on Earth. Through video and data, doctors understand the situation and give immediate instructions. In the words of astronaut Tom Marshburn, “We have the equipment needed to deal with every situation.”
Complete arrangement of medicines and equipment in ISS
According to NASA, there is a strong onboard pharmacy on the ISS in which many essential medicines are kept. There is also a set of medical equipment which the crew is trained to use in advance. Once an astronaut had a serious problem, such as a blood clot, medicines were used very limited and thoughtfully so that he could return safely to Earth.
Plan to return to Earth in emergency
If the situation gets out of control on the ISS, an emergency evacuation plan is ready. The Soyuz or Crew Dragon capsules attached to the station act as lifeboats. If needed, the crew can immediately separate from the station and return to Earth. At the time of landing, the flight surgeon and medical team are already present so that the astronaut can get immediate treatment.
Space mission is safe even without a doctor
Although there is no doctor present on the ISS, NASA’s training, telemedicine and emergency systems are strong enough to deal with every medical situation. This is the reason why even while living in space, the health of astronauts is considered as safe as on Earth.
Also read:
America left behind! India becomes the fastest AI adopting country in the world, report reveals
