I have been experimenting with several solutions for Low Profile / No Profile Requirements and will be posting them here.
RE Factor MDC (Multi-Mode Discrete Carry)
My requirements for an EDC IFAK are patterned after Self-Aid - primarily Hemorrhage Control.
Applying a Tourniquet (TQ), packing a wound with gauze, and applying a compression bandage are all Self-Aid skillsets that require corresponding medical devices.
You will have to determine exactly how far you are willing to trade off and compromise between effectiveness and concealability.
The issue I ran into when selecting medical devices for inclusion into the RE Factor MDC is that the size of the slots are just too small in both depth and width.
Large Size Pocket: The large-size pocket easily fits a SWAT-T, but I prefer a dedicated compression bandage with a wound pad. The H&H Mini Compression Bandage is a smaller compression bandage compared to others on the market and this not as effective as others. I selected it because of concealability reasons even though it is less effective compared to full-size pressure bandages.
Mid-Size Pocket #2: The Quikclot Combat Gauze was a tad too large for the mid-size pocket, while the Quikclot Combat Gauze Z-Fold and the Celox Rapid could both be packed to fit with an additional one as well. I prefer to have 2x Hemostatic Gauze items for large wound channels and/or multiple wounds based on my experiences overseas. I also place my medical gloves here due to space and layering considerations (if I am going to use gauze, I may want medical gloves on first).
Mid-Size Pocket #3: This fits a SOFT-TW TQ. The SOFT-TW is my preferred universal TQ. While the CAT is easier and faster to apply on arm extremities by oneself, the SOFT-TW is capable of performing that mission as well as being a superior choice for leg injuries based on a metal windlass and clasp design.
Mid-Size Slot #4: I have a HALO Chest Seal rolled up in there. This is not an ideal method of storing chest seals and I will have to replace them at a faster rate but I am making do with what I have available. The HALO is my preferred chest seal, though I may experiment with other models that fit better.
The other slots (4) are smaller and more suited to Sharpies / 14 Gauge Needles / Chemlights.
I have 1 Sharpie next to the TQ and 2x Decompression Needles in the bother small slots. For Self-Aid I don't see myself needing to stick myself in most situations and don't consider them needed in a CONUS IFAK as a tension pneumothorax takes awhile to set in. However I have the needles, the space is there, and it allows for a more capable IFAK so they stay. The slot isn't large enough for an NPA.
There are 2-3 Velcro straps to secure medical devices, this is also an area to attach safety pins which have a myriad of medical uses.
While the fabric allows some stretch to fit items, the durability just isn't there and the fabric will fray and rip just by placing some oversize items in. This is likewise exacerbated by daily wear and tear. I may have to use black 100MPH Tape to secure some slots as a precautionary measure.
Product Improvement Recommendations:
1) Increased Modularity
End Users will have varying requirements. By increasing modularity of the MDC, you are able to not only cater to a broader consumer base but also maximize the efficacy of them.
This can be done by having smaller strips of Velcro used to adjoin slots to allow them to be larger or smaller depending on end user requirements. Versatility is key.
2) Make More Efficient Use Of Space
Half the MDC is simply Velcro backing to secure itself. This could have been expanded by adding more pockets for medical devices around the entire MDC and allow end users more freedom of load carriage and increased loadout capabilities.
3) Eliminate Some Smaller Slots
Small slots can house Sharpies, Chest Decompression Needles (ARS, Mojodart), Chemlights.
However, for a low profile IFAK I do not need 4 slots for these items. Odds are I will not be using Chemlights at all in EDC application.
4) Make System Slightly Larger
While the system is designed to fit around everything from your ankle to around your abdomen and chest, the latter is not ideal for larger dudes.