Understanding Wilderness EMS

Wilderness EMS systems serve unique environments that present different challenges compared to urban EMS operations. As illustrated through a case involving a patient experiencing a STEMI at a ski resort, the transition from an urban setting to wilderness can be immediate and complex, particularly when unforeseen circumstances arise, such as an avalanche blocking access. Emergency medical services must adapt rapidly to the changing landscape, providing care under conditions that may lack resources and impose significant risks. This necessitates strong coordination among various agencies involved, including local ski patrols, clinics, and law enforcement, highlighting the critical nature of collaboration in wilderness EMS scenarios.