Abstract
Introduction
Emergency Medicine (EM) training programs attract physicians adept in wilderness medicine. Other medical professionals are also interested in learning about wilderness medicine. It may be possible for EM residency programs to create a wilderness medicine conference that will provide an educational service to both its faculty and the attendees.
Methodology
Senior hospital administration pledged support to an EM resident course director who, with assistance from faculty advisors and fellow residents, created a 3-day wilderness medicine conference. The curriculum included didactics, skill labs, and simulations. Hospital financing, marketing, and the continuing medical education department worked together to implement and evaluate the conference. Cosponsors, vendors, and potential attendees were contacted and invited via mailings, telephone calls, e-mails, and links on various websites. At the conclusion of the conference, a formal survey was provided to each participant in order to gather qualitative and quantitative data.
Results
The conference was approved for 20 hours of continuing education credits. Attendance tallies included 20 faculty, 160 paid participants, and 15 commercial vendors. Attendee evaluations were generally positive, particularly with respect to the hands-on workshops and outdoor labs. Faculty members found the conference to be an engaging and rewarding academic experience. Participating residents felt the weekend improved their medical knowledge, and honed their teaching skills through assisting and leading workshops. The conference achieved modest financial success and was able to cover costs and generate a small profit. Finally, the efforts of the sponsoring hospital gained favorable recognition within the community.
Conclusion and Discussion
Directing a conference can be difficult and time-consuming for directors, faculty, and staff. However, with the support of the sponsoring hospital, faculty, and other residents, organizing a wilderness medicine conference can be rewarding, educational, and fun. Based on the success of this conference, other residency programs should consider similar ventures.