The Advanced Wilderness Life Support certification course was originally developed at the University of Utah School of Medicine and has grown significantly since its creation in 1997.  The increasing demand for certification resulted in the creation of a new organization, AdventureMed, to promote the responsible growth of the AWLS program.   AWLS certification is available to anyone with a medical degree or certification including: MD, DO, RN, DDS, DPM, PA, EMT and Paramedic.  AWLS is approved for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit through the Wilderness Medical Society.

AWLS is a practical hands-on certification course that teaches medical professionals how to manage medical emergencies when traditional medical facilities are not readily accessible.  AWLS® was developed to create a standard in treating injuries and illnesses in a wilderness environment.  The AWLS certification gives medical professionals,
and their patients, peace of mind and confidence
in the care given in such situations. 

Course fees and other FAQs

Learn to prevent & Treat Injuries Common to Outdoor Activities. BWLS is a 1-2 day course for individuals without medical training. Developed at the University of Utah, School of Medicine, the BWLS course is taught by medical professionals. See our website at www.bwls.org for more information.

            If you would like to participate in a BWLS course, but do not see one scheduled on the web site, please contact Dr. Phillips about the possibility of taking the basic course during an ongoing AWLS course. 

At this time, there are no programs planned aside from the life support courses listed above.  If you or your group would like to establish a wilderness medicine- related training, we would be happy to help!

            Check back frequently to learn of new course offerings.