Didactics are often, and for good reason, held in the classroom. Learners, however, have a difficult time absorbing 8 hours of lecture, so most programs do a great job incorporating simulation sessions, outdoor field medicine, or interactive lecture in their didactics schedule. Allegheny General Hospital (AGH) Emergency Medicine residency program took this a step further with “Wilderness Medicine on the Trail,” an experiential learning initiative.
Two residents and one faculty member set out on a 5-day, 350-mile bike packing adventure from Pittsburgh to Washington, D.C., with the goal of learning through their environment in wilderness medicine. Along the trail, toxic plants were identified, snakes were distinguished between venomous and non-venomous, and evening discussions were held regarding up-to-date guidelines, field toxicology, and austere prehospital medicine.
By way of the Great Allegheny Passage Trail and the Chesapeake and Ohio Towpath Trail the trio experienced the environment, learned about the endeavors of early pioneers, and faced their own (mostly mechanical) challenges. Adventuring together strengthened their team building and leadership skills, adding a valuable and intangible educational component.
The final miles of the trail became bittersweet and all three highly recommend other residency programs to consider outdoor wilderness medicine learning. This trip took the format of a wilderness medicine elective for AGH with a faculty lead. It would also be possible to organize shorter or day-long adventures through backpacking, hiking, cycling, or water sports with similar educational value.
If you are considering organizing a wilderness medicine trip and would like advice, please reach out!