Mount Everest Sherpas known as Icefall Doctors ensure climber safety

The ‘Icefall Doctors’ are skilled Sherpa mountaineers who perform the critical and dangerous task of ensuring safety on Mount Everest. Rather than medical professionals, these experts are responsible for preparing and maintaining a safe passage through the Khumbu Icefall, which is considered the most dangerous route for those attempting to summit Everest or Lhotse.

Their duties include fixing ropes, monitoring ice stability, and conducting rescues between Base Camp and Camp II. They face extreme risks, including avalanches, ice collapses, crevasses, altitude sickness, and severe weather conditions.

As the commercialization of Everest expeditions increases, the role of these mountaineers becomes increasingly vital. Since 1921, 317 people have died during Everest attempts, while 6,664 individuals have successfully reached the summit between 1953 and 2024.