History of Wilderness Medicine

Wilderness medicine is the practice of medicine in a resource-limited and austere environment. While often applied in outdoor environments, wilderness medicine is applicable in disaster situations, rural communities, and impoverished locations without access to the conveniences, support, and technology of modern medicine. The discipline has been intricately linked with the advancement of medical practice in warfare and is thought to have its roots with the naval physicians of early city states who are considered by some to be the first practitioners of wilderness medicine. Over time, the field has evolved with the establishment of societies and associations that promote education, research, and advancement of wilderness training to the modern physician. In 2009, the standardized criteria was accepted by the existing fellowship programs to establish the current core curriculum known today for wilderness medicine.

Wilderness Medicine Curriculum

In 2009, directors and faculty members of wilderness medicine fellowships established a curriculum standard which is published as "Wilderness Medicine Core Content." Outlined are core content and educational objectives for all fellowships. Currently, standardization of post-fellowship assessment and accreditation through SAEM is being discussed. Different fellowships and their individual criteria, duties, and requirements can be found here.

Careers in Wilderness Medicine

Wilderness medicine careers are varied. Clinically, there are many opportunities to work in mountainous areas (e.g., Himalayan Rescue Association), remote areas (e.g., Antarctica), and closer to home as well. Those who have research interests in wilderness medicine can "practice" wilderness medicine while still working in a traditional emergency medicine role. Many practitioners are involved in but not limited to: local search and rescue, expedition, medical support, event medicine, training of other medical professionals, program directors, international medicine, mission trips, and emergency medical services (EMS).