Course Objectives/Take Aways:

A medical emergency is among the most demanding events that any of us ever experiences, but those demands increase dramatically when the emergency occurs during a flight into the backcountry. Even a 45-minute flight can put aviation enthusiasts days away from the emergency medical system. That's why it's critical that anyone who flies into remote areas is able to act as an effective first responder.

The class is divided into 4 scenario-based modules:

1. General strategies in emergency response - assessing situation, effective communication, utilizing available resources, seeking assistance.

2. Aviation trauma responses - medical assessment, triaging, offering care.

3. Non-trauma/medical responses - addressing cardiac events, strokes, rapid onset infections and more.

4. Hands-on skill practice - an opportunity to use emergency response items in practice situations. Coaching for how to stabilize a spine, protect an airway, etc. 

The class will include many non-intuitive pearls that will help attendees bring these concepts and skills into real life.


Course instructors:

Dr. Chet Stringham - Chet has been the medical director of an EMS service in a large mountainous county for decades. He is also an experienced pilot and an FAA-designated senior aviation medical examiner. 

Gretchen Roth - Gretchen has years of experience as both a ground-based and flight paramedic. She's also a pilot and has worked as an advanced aviation ground instructor. 

The Backcountry First-aid Course is a pre-convention activity.  You do not need to register for the convention to participate in this course. Course materials, snacks and beverages will be provided. 

Registration fee is $60 through July 2nd.  Late registration fee of $70 will be charged effective July 3rd. 

This course is sponsored by AeroLEDS.