New Elective – Aid Room Module
The Eastern Division of the National Ski Patrol is proud to announce the rollout of the Aid Room Module of the Senior Program (AR-MSP), a dynamic and critical component designed to elevate further the operational knowledge and leadership abilities of Senior Patroller candidates. As we launch this initiative, our first step is to identify passionate and qualified ski patrol members across the division who are ready to lead the charge within their respective regions.
The AR-MSP is not a repetition of the Outdoor Emergency Care (OEC) module—it is a stand-alone educational and evaluative experience focusing specifically on the unique environment and challenges found within ski area aid rooms. This initiative aims to strengthen patroller capabilities in triage, medical intervention, communication, resource management, and leadership skills crucial to providing excellent care in high-pressure scenarios.
Why the AR-MSP Matters
Aid rooms are the operational nerve centers of ski patrol medical response. From managing multiple injured patients during peak hours to coordinating with EMS for critical transports, the complexity of tasks requires skill, efficiency, and calm leadership. The AR-MSP ensures that patrollers operating in these environments possess the specialized knowledge and leadership qualities necessary to handle such responsibilities.
The mission of the AR-MSP is simple: to provide Senior Patroller Candidates the opportunity to demonstrate advanced expertise in managing the aid room and delivering high-quality patient care. This includes not only clinical interventions but also coordination with emergency services, resolving conflicts with patients or visitors, and communicating effectively with area management and fellow patrollers.
What the Module Covers
The program is structured around five key topic areas:
Aid Room Triage and Resource Management
Candidates must demonstrate use of the ID-ME triage system, manage patient and non-patient incidents, deploy resources efficiently, and communicate effectively using radio or phone.
Medical Intervention and Treatment
Emphasis is placed on the primary and secondary surveys, infection control, and delivering appropriate care that aligns with both the standard of training and expected standard of care.
Conflict Resolution
Candidates are trained to manage tense or emotional situations with patients, family members, or colleagues through clear communication and calm demeanor.
Interaction with EMS and Other Agencies
Coordination with external emergency services is vital. Candidates must know when and how to transfer care, communicate infection risks, and manage legal responsibilities, including mandatory reporting.
Interface with Patrollers and Area Management
The module focuses on risk management, behavioral emergencies, and workplace injuries. Candidates must show they can operate as effective liaisons between the patrol, resort management, and external agencies.
The Training and Evaluation Process
The AR-MSP combines written exercises, discussions, scenario-based training, and final evaluations to ensure well-rounded development.
Written Exercises include:
—Aid room design and patient flow
—An assignment checklist covering essential protocols (e.g., missing person reports, ambulance requests, consent for minors)
—Responses to at least two scenarios, exploring real-world challenges
—Training Sessions are led by certified Trainers/Evaluators (T/Es), where candidates review their written assignments and practice scenarios.
Final Evaluation involves two hands-on scenarios designed to test candidate competence under pressure. Each scenario touches on multiple topic areas to simulate real-life situations in aid room settings.
Your Role in the Rollout
As we introduce the AR-MSP throughout the Eastern Division, our immediate goal is to identify enthusiastic and qualified ski patrol members to serve as regional program leaders. These individuals will work with Region OEC Administrators (ROAs) and Senior Training Coordinators (STCs) to:
—Coordinate training and evaluation events
—Support candidates as Trainers/Evaluators
—Promote awareness and participation in the program
If you have completed your OEC-MSP training and are ready to take on a leadership role in your region, we encourage you to step forward. The division will provide guidance, resources, and formal T/E training clinics to ensure that you are fully prepared to mentor candidates and uphold the high standards of the AR-MSP.
Looking Ahead
This program represents a significant step in the evolution of patroller education. By focusing on real-world aid room challenges, we prepare Senior Patrollers to be not just responders, but leaders—professionals who can think critically, act decisively, and communicate effectively during emergencies. The Aid Room Module reinforces what ski patrolling has always been about: readiness, leadership, and the commitment to serving others with excellence. With your support, we will build a stronger, more skilled patrol community across the Eastern Division. To express interest in becoming a regional AR-MSP leader or to learn more about how you or your patrol can get involved, please contact your Region OEC Administrator or Division OEC Supervisor. Together, let’s raise the bar for what it means to be a Senior Patroller in today’s ski environment. The future of our aid rooms—and the quality of care we provide—starts with us.
The central theme of this year’s summit was a full-scale deck collapse simulation—a challenging scenario that required participants to assess and manage patients amid a chaotic and high-stakes environment. With over eight simulated patients suffering from various traumatic injuries, young adult patrollers had to think quickly, collaborate effectively, and rely on their training to triage and treat patients efficiently.
Ski patrol involves more than just assisting injured skiers—it’s about being prepared for any situation. Events like the YAP Summit provide young adult patrollers with hands-on experience in simulated disasters, which enhances their ability to handle real-life emergencies with confidence and precision. By the end of the weekend, participants had not only tested their skills in a high-pressure environment but also built lasting connections with fellow young adult patrollers from across the country.
