A survey of the initial 16 candidates of RPAP's multi-media General Emergency Medical Skills (GEMS) training showed that the four modules and the STARS HPS session offered high educational value to participants (overall mean = 6.4/7.0).

GEMS is a self-study multi-media training program that enables rural physicians to upgrade emergency skills at work or at home. While rural physicians must be able to handle every situation that rolls through the emergency room door, maintaining clinical competency can be a challenge with busy schedules and the long distance from urban training sites.  Interested physicians receive four interactive CD-ROM modules covering Rapid Sequence Intubation, Central Venous Access, C-spine and Head CT, and Preparation for Transport.

Once they complete the modules, STARS staff with their Human Patient Simulator (HPS) travel to the physician�s or a nearby town to allow hands on practice using scenarios developed from the modules. The HPS team provides a one-on-one adult learning experience with the added benefit of immediate feedback and information on equipment and techniques relevant to the individual doctor�s practice and experience.  The rural doctor is encouraged to involve the local ER team in the HPS experience.

Pre- and post-tests are completed as part of the program enabling the assignment of MainPro-C CME credits for the CFPC.  The GEMS program also enables access to the Anatomy lab at the UofC for further skills practice.  Further modules, such as one on emergency surgical techniques, may be developed depending on additional evaluation outcomes.