Dr. Arthur Islas, M.D., MPH, has been named a Master Fellow of the Academy of Wilderness Medicine, honoring his visionary work in delivering health care in extreme and remote environments.
Driven by a passion for adventure and purpose, Dr. Islas founded the first Wilderness Medicine Fellowship within a Department of Family Medicine, creating new opportunities for primary care professionals in this evolving field. His groundbreaking expedition to Aconcagua, Argentina — the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere — led to a 50% reduction in mountain rescue operations, showcasing his ability to merge medical innovation with real-world impact.
From Nepal to South America, Dr. Islas has provided lifesaving care to underserved, hard-to-reach communities. He also helped establish the Wilderness Medical Society archive at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, preserving the field’s legacy for future generations.
“Our goal is to prepare individuals before, during, and after expeditions,” he said, reflecting his holistic approach to wilderness medicine. He credits his wife’s unwavering support as key to his journey: “You need to have a partner that really supports you.”
Dr. Islas exemplifies how leadership, compassion and vision can transform medicine — even in the world’s most unforgiving places.
NevadaToday
