Welcome to WEMS Belgium

We are the Wilderness and Expedition Medicine Society of Belgium, based in Leuven, focused on providing high-quality educational content on medical care during expeditions in remote environments, from the highest mountains to the sea and desert, for all interested medical students and individuals with a love for the outdoors.

Our blog posts

Survival Kit for Adventurous Hikers

Exploring the great outdoors offers unparalleled freedom, breath- taking views, and the thrill of adventure. But with that thrill comes the responsibility of being prepared for the unexpected. Whether you’re planning a day hike in the local mountains or embarking on a multi-day trek through remote wilderness, having a well-equipped survival kit is essential. 

First Aid in the Wilderness - Practicals

Venturing into the wilderness is an exhilarating experience, offering a sense of freedom and connection with nature that’s hard to find anywhere else. However, the beauty and solitude of the wild also come with risks, and when injuries or medical emergencies occur, help is often far away. That’s why knowing how to administer first aid in the wilderness is crucial for every outdoor enthusiast. 

Introduction to Expedition Medicine

Expedition medicine is a fascinating, rapidly evolving field that sits at the intersection of medicine, adventure & survival. It involves the application of medical knowledge and skills in some of the most challenging & remote environments on Earth. From the highest mountains to the sea and deserts, expedition medicine requires a unique blend of expertise, adaptability & resourcefulness. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of expeditions are we talking about ?

When we talk about expeditions at WEMS Belgium, we mean any adventure that takes you into extreme and remote environments where medical support is miles away. Think of high-altitude mountaineering, deep jungle treks, desert crossings, polar expeditions, and even ocean voyages. Whether it’s surviving in the arctic cold, treating injuries in dense rainforests, or handling emergencies in isolated deserts, expedition medicine prepares you for the unique challenges of these environments. From scientific research trips to adventurous explorations, our focus is on providing the skills needed to stay safe and healthy in any setting.

How do you become an expedition medic ?

Becoming an expedition medic requires a combination of medical training, specialized courses, and real-world experience. The most important steps you need to take on your journey to becoming an expedition medic:

  1. Start with Medical Training: You need a background in healthcare, such as being a doctor, nurse, paramedic, or even an advanced first responder.

  2. Get Specialized Training: Enroll in wilderness and expedition medicine courses like Wilderness First Responder (WFR), Advanced Wilderness Life Support (AWLS), or a Diploma in Mountain Medicine (DiMM). These courses cover survival skills, trauma management, and environmental medicine.

  3. Gain Field Experience: Join expeditions, volunteer for remote medical assignments, or work as a medic for outdoor adventure companies. Hands-on experience is crucial for learning how to apply your skills in challenging environments.

  4. Build Outdoor Skills: You’ll also need to be proficient in outdoor survival, navigation, and risk management. Understanding how to handle extreme conditions and operate in tough environments is key.

  5. Keep Learning: Expedition medicine is a dynamic field. Stay updated on new techniques, medical advancements, and gear by attending workshops, conferences, and networking with other expedition medics.

By combining medical expertise with specialized training and real-world practice, you can become an effective expedition medic ready to handle emergencies in the world’s most remote and extreme environments.

What is the next event of WEMS Belgium ?

TBA.

“Expedition medicine requires a blend of traditional medical skills and the ability to adapt and innovate in the face of unpredictable and often harsh environments.”

Contact us

For questions or collaborations, do not hesitate to contact us through the form below.

Location

WEMS Belgium
Leuven, Belgium

Who are we ?

WEMS Belgium is a student organization, based in Leuven, dedicated to providing high-quality educational content about Wilderness and Expedition Medicine to medical students, but also other individuals interested in the outdoors!