Appalachian Center for Wilderness Medicine

Appalachian Center for Wilderness Medicine (ACWM) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving wilderness medicine and outdoor health care in the Appalachian region. The center focuses on education, research, and advocacy to enhance the quality and accessibility of medical care in remote and wilderness settings. The ACWM serves a wide range of individuals and groups, including outdoor enthusiasts, professional guides, emergency responders, and medical professionals.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the Appalachian Center for Wilderness Medicine is to advance wilderness medicine education, practice, and research in the Appalachian region. Its vision encompasses a community where all individuals engaging in outdoor activities have access to high-quality wilderness medical care and education.

History

The Appalachian Center for Wilderness Medicine was established to address the unique challenges of providing medical care in the wilderness settings of the Appalachian region. The rugged terrain, remote locations, and variable weather conditions in this area create specific needs for wilderness medicine education and practice.

Programs and Services

ACWM offers a variety of programs and services aimed at enhancing wilderness medicine capabilities:

• Education and Training: The center provides a range of educational opportunities, including wilderness first aid (WFA), wilderness first responder (WFR), and wilderness advanced life support (WALS) courses. These programs are designed to equip individuals with the skills necessary to provide effective medical care in wilderness settings.

• Research: ACWM supports and conducts research on topics relevant to wilderness medicine. This research helps improve understanding and practices in the field, contributing to safer outdoor activities and better patient outcomes.

• Advocacy: The organization advocates for policies and practices that promote the health and safety of individuals in wilderness areas. This includes working with governmental and non-governmental organizations to improve access to wilderness medicine resources and education.

• Community Engagement: ACWM fosters a community of wilderness medicine practitioners and enthusiasts through events, workshops, and online forums. This network provides support and information sharing among individuals with a shared interest in wilderness health care.

Membership

Membership in the Appalachian Center for Wilderness Medicine is open to anyone with an interest in wilderness medicine. Members receive benefits such as discounts on courses, access to research and resources, and opportunities to participate in community events and advocacy efforts.

Impact

The work of the ACWM has significantly impacted wilderness medicine in the Appalachian region. Through its programs and services, the center has improved the quality of care available in remote areas, increased awareness and knowledge of wilderness health issues, and built a community of informed and prepared individuals.

See Also

• Wilderness Medicine
• Wilderness First Aid
• Wilderness First Responder
• Outdoor Education