WLS:MP is designed for medical professionals of all levels (MD, EMT, PA, NP, RN, etc) that have an interest in expanding their knowledge of wilderness medicine pathology and enhancing their practical skills in a wilderness environment. WLS:MP courses are designed for all types of outdoor enthusiasts, from the casual day hike to the extended expedition.
Our hybrid format covers materials otherwise taught in lecture format, using an innovative learning platform designed to learn along with the user. Instead of reading powerpoint slides, students will engage in online modules that give feedback, test understanding, and increase long term retention. As a result, students will arrive to the in person portion of the class better prepared, allowing for focus on the application of the material covered.
During this online and 2 day in-person course, students will learn the latest wilderness medicine skills for patient assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and evacuation. Our expert instructors employ a wide scope of teaching methods, balancing online didactic lectures with practical, hands-on skills and scenarios. Emphasis is placed not just on the materials learned, but the critical decision making skills surrounding effective backcountry medical management.
Upon course completion, students will earn the WLS:MP certification, valid four years, and be eligible for up to 24.5 hours of Category 1 CME and Wilderness Medical Society Fellowship (FAWM) credit.
For more information and a course guide, click here.
Grand Rapids is full of great places for any outdoor explorer. West Michigan’s lakeshore appeal attracts beach enthusiasts with dune rides and dune climbing as well as beach volleyball and swimming. Climb 279 steps to the top of Mt. Baldhead at Oval Beach outside Saugatuck or forgo the steps and climb the sand dune!
Whatever your passion, the Grand Rapids area thrives with superior golf courses, pristine parks, and lakes, streams, and rivers. Considered one the “best” walking cities, Grand Rapids is also great for biking and hiking and was rated the sixth most popular fishing city in the U.S. by Field and Stream Magazine (2006).
Get your heart pumping a little faster on one of our mountain biking trails – Outside Magazine named us the “Best Town for Mountain Biking” in 2010. Or enjoy a run or bike ride on a paved scenic trail. The Kent Trails system can be accessed just 1.5 miles from downtown and connects to hundreds of miles of paved biking and walking trails that wind throughout Michigan.
After a day on the trails it is often nice to relax with great dining and a glass of wine or an ice-cold beer. Grand Rapids has been known as Beer City USA since 2012 and boasts over 80 breweries throughout the area including brewing heavyweights such as Bells, Founders, Brewery Vivant, and New Holland.
Grand Rapids is the second-largest city in Michigan and is very convenient to visit. We are located at the intersection of US-131 and I-96. Grand Rapids is a short drive from Chicago (~ 3 hours, 180 miles), Detroit (2.4 hours, 160 miles), Lansing (1 hour, 70 miles) or Indianapolis (4 hours, 260 miles). It is also home to very accessible air travel via Gerald R Ford International Airport.
Our class is very centrally located in the northern metropolitan area in Grand Rapids. There are many options for lodging and restaurants in close proximity but if you do not want to be limited by traditional hotels there are many other unique options from historic hotels to B&Bs to many different types of campgrounds. Click here for more information regarding travel information but would be happy to answer any questions at mittenmedicaleducation@gmail.com.
We hope to see you soon!
The materials below above are covered via online and in person didactic lecture, small group discussion, practical skills sessions, and live scenarios. Each topic will describe pathology, treatment, prevention, and provide evacuation guidelines necessary for high quality patient care. This curriculum is continually reviewed for best practice and the most up to date guidelines.
The WLS:MP curriculum consists of:
Along with the WLSL:MP certification, students are able to earn up to 24.25 hours of AMA PRA Category 1 CME, as well as Wilderness Medical Society Fellowship credit. To confirm that these credits are applicable to your specific medical designation, inquire with your governing body. Please note that the CME credit hours differ for traditional in-person courses and hybrid courses.
