Maritime Healthcare: A 2026 Strategic Shift
Peter Hult, CEO of VIKAND, a maritime medical services firm, predicts a transformative year for crew healthcare in 2026, emphasizing its importance as a strategic priority rather than mere compliance. He notes a significant shift from cost-focused discussions to a broader understanding of healthcare’s critical role, particularly in mental health. This evolution stems from a growing recognition of the connection between crew well-being, operational efficiency, and vessel performance.
Shifting Perspectives on Crew Welfare
Hult highlights the industry’s advancing understanding of crew health as essential for operational success. He asserts that healthier crews contribute to reduced risks, improved decision-making, and overall vessel efficiency. “Crew members deserve our care; they are the backbone of the maritime industry,” he states. To support this shift, VIKAND has introduced innovative solutions like Crew Pulse Check. This anonymous feedback platform is gaining traction among major maritime operators by providing actionable insights that enhance crew welfare and operational performance. Early adopters have reported significant benefits ranging from leadership improvements to better compliance.
Another key component of VIKAND’s strategy is telehealth, which has evolved from a reactive measure to a proactive approach to crew care. Hult emphasizes the effectiveness of telehealth in facilitating rapid clinical assessments and providing real-time guidance to onboard teams. This approach is particularly crucial in emergencies, such as severe injuries or mental health crises, where timely intervention can save lives. As connectivity improves in remote operations, the value of telehealth continues to grow.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) also plays a vital role in VIKAND’s healthcare offerings, enabling predictive analytics through anonymized data. Hult explains that this technology helps identify potential issues onboard, allowing operators to implement targeted training programs and campaigns to enhance safety and reduce injuries. However, he cautions against complacency with evolving regulations, arguing that underinvestment in crew welfare could compromise safety and operational performance.
Embracing Change for Future Generations
As the maritime workforce transforms, Hult stresses the need for tailored approaches to meet the diverse needs of a multi-generational crew. He believes that companies must enhance the appeal of maritime careers to attract the next generation of talent, both at sea and onshore. The International Maritime Organization (IMO) continues to play a crucial role in elevating seafarer protections, reinforcing the importance of comprehensive regulations that support crew welfare.
Despite the focus on decarbonization and digitalization, Hult insists that people remain at the core of maritime operations. He notes that successful operators will be those who effectively integrate technology into their existing systems rather than simply accumulating new tools. Streamlining healthcare operations through unified systems is essential for maintaining efficiency and consistency. VIKAND is committed to investing in partnerships that enhance clinical decision-making while keeping human expertise central to their mission.
Looking ahead, Hult envisions 2026 as a pivotal year where crew welfare transitions from a supplementary concern to a fundamental operational necessity, driving safety, efficiency, and sustainability across the maritime industry.
