Wilderness Paramedic Upgrade (005) - Nepal

Wilderness Paramedic Upgrade

Dates: 9-16 March 2026

Course Price: $2,800

Location: Kathmandu - Namche Bazaar, Nepal

Course Description:

The Wilderness Paramedic Upgrade Course is an intensive 56-hour program designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide advanced medical care in remote and challenging wilderness environments. This comprehensive course covers a wide range of topics, blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on practical skills and immersive scenarios. It is ideal for healthcare professionals, Advanced EMTs, and Paramedics seeking to enhance their ability to respond effectively to medical emergencies in remote settings.

This is a Hybrid program where participants will need to complete several training modules online within 30 days prior to the main training event. An email with link and access information will be sent via email to the participants 30-45 days prior to the start of the course. Online course material must be completed prior to the in-person scenario sessions. Individuals that do not complete the online materials will not be able to continue in the course.

The asynchronous portion is then followed by the epic adventure of completing your hands on training in the historic Khumbu Region of Nepal! Our trip will begin in Kathmandu where you will meet your guides, training staff, and Sherpa escorts. We will talk about the trail and the epic adventure you are about to undertake. The next morning we will then fly to Lukla, the most dangerous airport on the planet, and start our trek! Along the way, you'll traverse rugged trails, cross swaying suspension bridges over roaring rivers, and ascend into the thin mountain air, where every step tests your endurance and resilience. As you trek through this breathtaking landscape, you'll have the opportunity to complete the SRTC Wilderness Paramedic Upgrade Course, gaining critical skills in austere medicine, altitude illness management, and remote patient care while also preparing you for the IBSC Wilderness Paramedic Certification Exam. Or if you are looking for a more adventurous refresher course, this is also the trip and program for you!

There will be hours of hiking, some relaxing lectures, and some amazing views of Everest and it's surrounding mountain peaks. This adventure stands to be the highlight of your career and experiences in expeditionary medicine!  The journey is physically demanding, with unpredictable weather, challenging terrain, and the ever-present effects of altitude, but it offers an unparalleled opportunity to refine your medical expertise in one of the most awe-inspiring environments on Earth. Join us for this unforgettable experience, where adventure meets education, and every challenge conquered makes you a stronger, more capable medical provider in the chaos of the austere care world!

Course Highlights:

• Comprehensive Wilderness Medical Training: Participants will gain a deep understanding of wilderness medicine, encompassing patient assessment, treatment of medical and trauma emergencies, and considerations specific to the remote environment
• Patient Assessment and Decision Making: Learn to perform systematic patient assessments, document findings, and make crucial medical decisions in resource-limited wilderness settings.
• Medical and Trauma Emergencies: Explore a wide range of medical emergencies, including cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, gastrointestinal, and environmental conditions. In-depth trauma training covers musculoskeletal injuries, head and spinal injuries, and wound management.
• Obstetrics, Pediatrics, and Special Populations: Understand how to handle childbirth in remote environments, pediatric medical emergencies, and considerations for geriatric and chronic care patients in the wilderness.
• Medications and Medical Kits: Gain knowledge of wilderness pharmacology, drug administration, and the use of medical kits in remote environments. Learn improvisation techniques when resources are limited.
• Patient Evacuation and Communication: Develop the skills necessary to coordinate evacuations and communicate with rescue services, whether by air or ground. Learn about wilderness navigation, weather considerations, and survival skills.
• Practical Skills and Scenarios: Engage in hands-on training, simulated medical emergencies, and scenario-based exercises that provide opportunities to apply learned skills in realistic situations.
• Ethics and Leave No Trace Principles: Discuss the importance of ethical conduct in wilderness areas and explore the principles of Leave No Trace and environmental stewardship.

Course Benefits:

• Certification: Successful completion of the course prepares participants for the Wilderness Paramedic Certification examination and provides a strong foundation for becoming a certified Wilderness Paramedic.
• Hands-On Experience: Extensive practical training and scenario-based exercises enhance participants' confidence and competence in managing real-life wilderness emergencies.
• Safety and Preparedness: Equip yourself with the knowledge and skills to stay safe and make informed decisions when venturing into remote outdoor environments.
• Team Collaboration: Develop teamwork and communication skills that are critical in wilderness emergencies where effective coordination is essential.
• Continuing Education: The course offers a stepping stone for further education in wilderness medicine, search and rescue, and emergency medical services.

The Wilderness Paramedic Upgrade Course provides you with the skills and knowledge to ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and others in challenging austere response settings. Join us for this 56-hour adventure in learning and preparedness for responding to austere care environments!

Prerequisite:

     -   NREMT or State Paramedic License or higher certification. 

     -   NREMT or State AEMT - Must of 3 years of field experience.

             (AEMTs are currently ineligible for WP-C examination.)

Certification:
Participants who successfully complete the course will receive a Wilderness Paramedic Upgrade Course certificate, recognized as a significant step toward achieving Wilderness Paramedic Certification. Wilderness Medical Society Fellowship in the Academy of Wilderness Medicine (FAWM) Credits are also available for this course. Contact us for more information about the FAWM credits and requirements.

Be advised: The Austere Medical Adventure to Namche Bazaar is strenuous and you should be in excellent physical condition. This trekking experience does not require that you have any previous trekking or mountaineering experience. All you need is the willingness to endure the stress and potential hardships of the trip, adapt to life on the trail, and be a avid adventurer at heart!

Required Texts:

• COROM Field Guide for Practitioners -  https://corom.org/field-guide/
  
• ​Wilderness EMS - https://www.amazon.com/Wilderness-Hawkins-FACEP-FAEMS-MFAWM/dp/1496349458
  
• Helicopter Rescue Techniques: A Training Handbook for Rescue Practitioners, Thomas

General Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – Kathmandu
Participant will enjoy a lovely lunch meet and greet with the staff and instructors. We will talk about safety during the trek and training evolutions. The team will then visit the Himalayan Rescue Association and learn about their mission in Nepal and the opportunities to work with the HRA. Courses for this day will  take place at the Himalayan Rescue Association's Headquarters. We will discuss preparing for foreign travel, surviving the unexpected night out, and water purification. The main goal is to begin to get to know one another.
{3-4 Hours of Discussion}

Day 2 – Flight to Lukla / Trek to Monjo
We will fly to Lukla which is the official starting point of our journey and one of the most dangerous airports in the world! Once we land in Lukla we will engage in some lectures and we will discuss the Challenges of Helicopters in Mountain Rescue, Aeromedical Physiology, Challenges of Expedition Medicine and Expedition Medical Kit Composition. We will also visit the mountain hospital in Lukla to see the challenges of ED care in the mountains and will make a short visit of the Lukla Mountain Hospital. That visit will be followed by a trek to Monjo for the night! 
(35 Min Flight / 3-4 Hour Trek) {4-5 Hours of Discussion}

Day 3 - Trek to Namche Bazaar
The morning will start with a lovely trek to the famous Namche Bazaar  where we will cross the Hilary Bridge and enter the Sagarmatha National Park which is the gateway to the Khumbu region. The first few hours will be a tough climb and then we will arrive at Namche Bazaar. Upon arrival we will have lunch and start some of the more hands on training lead by a discussion on the Need for Acclimatization and why pre-health and fitness screenings are essential to safe expedition experiences. 
(5 Hour Trek) {4 Hour of Discussion}

Day 4 - Namche Bazaar - Class Day 1
In the morning we will wake up, stretch and have a hefty breakfast at the tea house before making a short trek up to the Tensing Norgay Sherpa Memorial site and engaging in some in-depth hands on training simulations and scenarios. This is also where we will be able to get a fantastic view of Mount Everest down the valley! In the afternoon for a few hours participants will be able to explore the famous Namche Bazaar and partake in some of the cafe's and shops and maybe challenge the local kids to a high altitude game of soccer! Around dinner we will reconvene and discuss a few more topics before ending our day!  
(2 Hour Trek) {5-6 Hours of Discussion}

Day 5 - Namche Bazaar - Class Day 2
We will rest up, stretch, have some fantastic training sessions, and then you will get a final chance to explore Namche Bazaar! First thing in the morning we will trek over to the historic village of Khumjung. We will see some sites and engage in more hands on scenarios. During the trek back to Namche you will experience a few curve balls and challenges along the way. Then late afternoon and all evening you will be free to explore Namche Bazaar and later that evening we will trek up to the city Landing Zone and have a final class session while watching the sunset in the mountains and then getting to see the beauty of Namche at night! 
(2 Hour Trek) {5-6 Hours of Discussion}

Day 6 - Trek to Phakding
An early morning trek to Phakding will close out our time in Sagarmatha National Park and head up our return to Lukla and ultimately Kathmandu. Upon arrival in Phakding we will discuss Remote Medical Assessment Techniques and Telemedicine as a final topics to this exciting and informational trekking adventure! 
(4-5 Hour Trek) {2 Hours of Discussion}

Day 7 - Trek to Lukla
This is our last day of trekking in the Himalayas as we step off in the morning for the short 3-4 hour slow trek into Lukla. Upon arrival in Lukla we will have a hearty lunch and plan our porter dinner where we will get to celebrate with our porter staff and thank them for their efforts. You will have the day to rest, pack, enjoy some of the local shops and cafe's in Lukla and then can watch the flights coming in and out of the Tenzing-Hillary Airport. That night we party! 

(3-4 hour trek) {0 Hours of Discussion}

Day 8 - Fly to Kathmandu
We will board our flight into Kathmandu. Upon arrival we will be shuttled to the hotel where you can get some lunch, a long shower, and a much needed nap! Or you can explore beautiful Kathmandu and pick up a few keepsakes to bring home! That evening we will have a final dinner together at an amazing local Nepalese restaurant. At dinner we will get a chance to reflect on the trip and allow our instructional team to collect some much needed feedback. At the end of the evening we will bid you farewell and safe travels before allowing you to pack for your return trip home.
(35 Min Flight) {0 Hours of Discussion}

Day 9 - Fly home! Plan your return to join us for the next adventure!
(It is highly encouraged that you make return flight plans for at least a day after this to account for any delays returning from Lukla.) 

Pricing & Inclusions

This is a true trekking experience. There will be limited availability of showers and creature comforts. Participants should know that trekking in Nepal is strenuous! Please come in good physical condition. If you need a conditioning plan please ask us to help you with one. You should come equipped with a great sense of adventure and need to explore!



Trip Cost:  $2800.00 (Per Person) (A Payment Plan is Available)



Additional CME / FAWM Credit Cost:   $250.00 (Required for WLS:MP Certification)  
                                                             

Cost Inclusions:

• Airport transfers
• 2 nights of accommodation in Kathmandu
• Round trip airfare from Kathmandu to Lukla
• 8 day professionally guided trekking adventure
• 6 days of 3 meals a day
• Accommodations while trekking
• Everest trekking permit and TIMS (Traveler Security) Card
• Porter services
• Local and Government Taxes
• NASAR Wilderness First Responder Certification
• Farewell Dinner
• 1 Himalayan Wonders T-Shirt & 1 Trip SRTC T-Shirt

Cost Does Not Include:

• Airfare to and from Kathmandu
• WLS:MP Certificate*
• Any COVID testing and transportation expenses
• Trip cancellations (See cancellation policy)
• Medical, Rescue, and Evacuation Insurances
• Meals in Kathmandu
• Bottled Water ($2-$4 per bottle)* (See Information sheet)
• Expenses should you need to depart early from the Trek
• Entry Visa ($40)
• Tips for Guide & Ported (Typically $150 per person)
• Porter thank you meal in Lukla. 
• Any unforeseen meal, lodging, & travel expenses due to weather delays or flight cancelations.
• Any items or services of a personal nature (Soda, Alcoholic Beverages, Laundry, Etc)

Expedition Terms, Conditions, & Policies

Proof of Travel Insurance:
Each participant must show proof of travel, rescue, and evacuation insurance prior to being committed to the symposium. Standard policies cover evacuation from 4000m of elevation. Be sure that your policy covers evacuation from up to 6000m of elevation. 

Flight Delays, Flight Cancellations, Unforeseen Problems:
Flights in and out of Lukla are generally reliable. However, in the event of a flight cancellation we may attempt to get the team on a chartered helicopter flight. The cost of this helicopter is at your expense. Any extra lodging expenses due to inclement weather are also your responsibility. (Generally $30.00 - $100 a night) It is highly suggested that you allow at least 2 extra days at each end of the expedition to account for any weather possible delays. Rooms before and after the trek are additional expenses and should be booked with us.   

Registration Policy:
Tuition for The Wilderness & Expedition Medicine Symposium is $4,000.00 per person. Airfare to and from Kathmandu is not included in this price. A minimum deposit of $750 is required to hold your spot for the symposium and must be provided upon registration. A monthly payment plan will then be calculated based on length of time until the January 6 2025 payment cut off. Trip must be paid in full by 6 Jan 2025. Confirmation of Travel arrangements and Evacuation Insurance will also be requested for at that time. 

By 30 days out from the trek you must submit your physician waiver to attend. This is a strenuous trek and certain medical ailments may disqualify you or limit your ability to acclimatize. Sergeant Rescue is not obligated to allow anyone to participate.

*To receive the AWLS Certification you must purchase a CME/CEU package for your current level of certification.*

Lodging for the trek dates only are included in the symposium tuition.

CME & FAWM Credits:
Those wishing to receive RN or Physician CME or FAWM credits may purchase this option at the additional cost of $500.00 for PAs, MDs, DOs, RNs. Those that are EMTs, Paramedics or Residents that wish to receive CEUs or FAWM credits may purchase these for $350.00. CME and FAWM credits do not need to be pre-purchased. At any time during the symposium you may purchase CME credits. However, this cost will not be pro-rated, discounted, or refunded once you decide to purchase them. 

Lodging:
Team members will be lodged in pairs throughout the trip. No single lodging option is available due to the nature of trekking in the Nepal and the need to fit the team in the providing lodging arrangements. 

The team will stay in a western style hotel rooms in Kathmandu and then in Tea Houses while on the trail. You are required to lodge with the team during the expedition dates. No COED lodging arrangements will be provided unless you are in relationship or with a family member. Team members will otherwise be partnered male with male and female with female. 

You may book other arrangements for Kathmandu for any extra days at your own expense. If you choose to stay in a hotel other than that associated with the team you will be responsible for all airport and hotel transfers. 

Cancelation & Refund Policies:

• If the participant withdrawals from the symposium:If greater than or equal to 6 months from the symposium final payment date SRTC will retain a $450.00 administrative fee.If less than 6 months from the symposium final payment date, 6 Jan 2025, only 50% of what was paid toward the symposium will be refunded.Himalayan Wonders will also retain a $250.00 cancellation fee for cancellation at anytime.If less than or equal to 90 days from the symposium final payment date, 6 Jan 2025, all tuition is due and is non-refundable and non-transferrable.
• Once CME / FAWM payment is received it is non-transferable and non-refundable.
• If for any reason you become ill, injured, or must return home for any reason, this will be at your own expense and the trip cannot be refunded, pro-rated, and tuition will not be credited to another trek.
• If for any reason Himalayan Wonders or Sergeant Rescue Training & Consulting cancels the trekking symposium prior to the start date, a full refund of all course fees and tuition will be awarded.

Late Payment Policy

Participants that register and choose pay via company check or personal check must submit payment in a timely manner. Payment is due no later than 10 days after your registrations is submitted. If payment is not post marked prior to this date a late fee will be assessed. Late fees will either be invoiced separately or added to any outstanding balance.

• Initial late fee is $25.00..
• An additional fee of $10.00 per day will also be assessed if payment is delayed past 7 days from registration and is retroactive to the date of registration.

General Symposium Policies

• Waivers that will be provided must be signed prior to your participation.
• Team members are required to purchase an evacuation insurance policy, COVID insurance policy, and are highly recommended to purchase a travel insurance policy that will cover any trip postponements or flight cancelation delays. 
• Upon arrival you will also meet with the team medic or physician for a review of your medical document.
• Emergency contact and next of kin information will be provided to the team leader upon check in.
• An emergency contact number in case of an emergency at home will also be provided for you prior to your departure from home.
• At any point during the trek you show signs of acute mountain sickness or signs of high altitude illness you will be evacuated! (Non-Negotiable)
• If you sustain an injury or illness, and it is determined by the team medic or physician that you no longer are fit to travel, you will be returned to Lukla, Kathmandu, or evacuated.
• If you purchase CME/FAWM credit you must be present for all CME courses.
• Misconduct, physical altercations, or harassment of any staff, instructors, porters or guides will result in your immediate dismissal from the trek and you will be sent to Kathmandu at your own expense. All expenses for lodging, meals, flight exchanges will also be at your expense and not provided by the trekking organization or Sergeant Rescue. 
• Have fun, take pictures, and soak up the culture!
• Bring a great sense of adventure!