Survival MD Review: Is This Survival Medicine Handbook Right for You?

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As someone who’s spent over a decade guiding trips in the backcountry and writing about outdoor preparedness, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly a minor injury or illness can become a serious problem when you’re miles from help. That’s why I’m always evaluating resources for wilderness first aid and survival medicine. Recently, I’ve been diving deep into the Survival MD review and the content of the Survival Medical Handbook, created by Dr. Alton Lansley. This isn’t just another first aid guide; it’s a comprehensive approach to medical self-reliance in austere environments. In this article, I’ll break down what the Survival MD reviews are saying, what’s included in the handbook, who it’s best suited for, and whether it’s worth the investment for your outdoor adventures.

What is the Survival MD Handbook?

The Survival MD system, at its core, is a collection of resources designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to handle medical emergencies when professional medical care is unavailable. Dr. Lansley, a retired physician, created the handbook and accompanying videos to address a gap he saw in traditional wilderness first aid training. While standard courses focus on stabilization and evacuation, Survival MD aims to empower you to diagnose, treat, and even perform minor surgical procedures in a true survival situation. The primary component is the survival medicine handbook itself, a hefty, detailed manual covering a vast range of medical topics.

Key Components of the Survival MD System

The Survival Medical Handbook: The core of the system, a 600+ page manual.
Video Library: Demonstrations of procedures, from wound closure to splinting.
Quick Reference Guides: Condensed information for rapid access in the field.
Online Community: A forum for questions, discussions, and shared learning.

A Deep Dive into the Handbook’s Content

I spent several weeks thoroughly reviewing the Survival MD handbook, and I was impressed by the sheer breadth of information. It’s not just a rehash of basic first aid. It delves into topics like:

Advanced Wound Care: Beyond bandaging, it covers wound irrigation, debridement, and suture techniques.
Infection Management: Identifying and treating infections without antibiotics (a critical skill in a long-term survival scenario).
Fracture and Dislocation Reduction: Step-by-step instructions for resetting broken bones and dislocated joints.
Dental Emergencies: Dealing with toothaches, broken teeth, and even extractions.
Common Illnesses: Managing conditions like pneumonia, dehydration, and allergic reactions.
Herbal Remedies: Identifying and utilizing medicinal plants (with strong cautions about proper identification – see USDA Forest Service Wildflowers for plant identification resources).

The handbook also includes detailed sections on building a medical kit, understanding pharmacology (what medications to stock and how to use them), and maintaining hygiene in austere conditions. It’s important to note that the handbook emphasizes that this knowledge is for situations where professional medical care is unavailable, and it strongly encourages seeking qualified medical attention whenever possible. This aligns with the principles of responsible backcountry travel advocated by organizations like the National Park Service.

What Do Other Survival MD Reviews Say?

I’ve spent considerable time scouring online forums, reading customer testimonials, and comparing notes with other outdoor professionals to get a comprehensive picture of what people think of Survival MD. The general consensus is overwhelmingly positive, particularly among those who are serious about self-reliance and preparedness. Here’s a breakdown of common themes in Survival MD reviews:

Comprehensive Coverage: Many reviewers praise the depth and breadth of the information provided.
Practical Focus: The handbook is written in a clear, concise style, with a strong emphasis on practical application.
Excellent Value: Considering the amount of content, many reviewers feel the price is reasonable.
Empowering: Several reviewers report feeling more confident in their ability to handle medical emergencies after studying the handbook.

However, some criticisms do surface. A few reviewers found the sheer volume of information overwhelming, and others cautioned that the procedures described require significant practice and skill to perform effectively. It’s also important to acknowledge that this isn’t a substitute for formal medical training. As REI Expert Advice consistently emphasizes, hands-on training is crucial for developing the skills and confidence needed to respond to emergencies in the backcountry.

Who is the Survival MD Handbook For?

This isn’t a handbook for the casual day hiker. It’s geared towards individuals who:

Spend significant time in remote areas: Backcountry adventurers, long-distance hikers, and those who live off-grid.
Are interested in self-reliance: Individuals who want to be prepared to handle medical emergencies on their own.
Have a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology: While not required, some prior medical knowledge is helpful.
Are willing to invest the time and effort to learn the material: This handbook requires serious study and practice.

Specifically, I think this resource would be incredibly valuable for:

Outdoor Guides: Enhancing their ability to respond to emergencies in the field.
Camp Owners/Staff: Providing a higher level of medical care for guests.
Search and Rescue Teams: Supplementing their existing training.
Individuals Planning Extended Wilderness Trips: Preparing for situations where evacuation may be delayed or impossible.

Comparing Survival MD to Traditional Wilderness First Aid Courses

It’s important to understand how Survival MD differs from traditional Wilderness First Aid (WFA) or Wilderness First Responder (WFR) courses. WFA and WFR courses, offered by organizations like NOLS Wilderness Medicine and SOLO Wilderness Medicine, focus on stabilization, evacuation, and providing care until professional medical help arrives. They are excellent courses and highly recommended. Survival MD, on the other hand, goes beyond that, teaching you how to treat conditions when evacuation isn’t an option.

Feature	Wilderness First Aid/Responder	Survival MD
Focus	Stabilization & Evacuation	Diagnosis & Treatment (when evacuation is unavailable)
Training Method	Hands-on, Instructor-led	Self-study (Handbook & Videos)
Scope of Practice	Limited to stabilization and basic care	Expanded to include advanced procedures
Cost	$300 - $800+	$397 (as of Oct 26, 2023)

I recommend taking a WFA or WFR course in addition to studying the Survival MD handbook. The hands-on training provided by these courses is invaluable, and they will give you the confidence and skills to apply the knowledge you gain from the handbook.

Ethical Considerations and Legal Disclaimer

It’s crucial to approach the information in the Survival MD handbook with a sense of responsibility and ethical awareness. Performing medical procedures without proper training can be dangerous, and you should always act within the scope of your knowledge and abilities. Furthermore, be aware of the legal implications of providing medical care in your jurisdiction. The handbook includes a disclaimer emphasizing that it is not a substitute for professional medical advice and that users are responsible for their own actions.

Final Verdict: Is the Survival MD Handbook Worth It?

In my opinion, the Survival MD review concludes with a resounding “yes,” for the right person. If you’re a serious outdoor enthusiast, a professional guide, or someone who wants to be truly prepared for medical emergencies in remote areas, the Survival Medical Handbook is an invaluable resource. It’s a comprehensive, practical, and empowering guide that can give you the knowledge and skills to save a life. However, it’s not a magic bullet. It requires dedication, practice, and a commitment to responsible self-reliance. Combine it with formal wilderness first aid training, and you’ll be well-equipped to handle whatever medical challenges the backcountry throws your way. Remember to always prioritize prevention, practice Leave No Trace principles (leavenotrace.org), and be prepared for the unexpected. For further reading on backcountry preparedness, check out my article on Building the Ultimate Backcountry First Aid Kit.