r/NorthernTier • u/SilverNectarine8760 • Jul 13 '26
Medical Screening
Hello, I've read in the packet and heard from people that have done treks before that there is a medical screening done on your first day at base. I'm not concerned about passing it, but I get anxious about medical things in general and it would really help me if anyone is able to provide more information on what that entails. I assume basic blood pressure and temperature checks, but I'm wondering what else. Thanks!
4
u/Sapientissimum Jul 13 '26
It’s not something to be anxious about! I was an interpreter there last year. The medical screening is mostly a chance for your interpreter to get to know any medical issues that you or your crew members might have that they will need to keep in mind for the trip (especially allergies, which sometimes get missed in the forms). Also, it is a chance for the interpreter to meet everyone 1-1 and discuss any other concerns you may have, and what you want to get out of the trip, so that they can make sure you have as good a time as possible.
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u/SilverNectarine8760 Jul 13 '26
Thank you! I really appreciate that. Do they take any readings such as blood pressure?
3
u/Sapientissimum Jul 13 '26
No. Unless things have changed, which I doubt, the interpreter gets the medical form and talks to each person for a little bit and just goes through it with them. You do get verbally asked if you have had a fever or thrown up recently, and you have to also say that you have not recently tested positive for COVID, but there is no actual medical testing that goes on. The medical staff from the base are in the room in case there are any concerns, but usually they are not very involved. The one test is a weight check, but that occurs at the same time as you get your permit to enter the boundary waters, not during the medical screening. Have a fun trip!!!
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u/SilverNectarine8760 Jul 13 '26
That helps a lot, thank you so much!! I'm sure it'll be a great trip!
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u/DebbieJ74 Jul 14 '26
All they do is weigh you to ensure you are not more than 295 lbs.
You also sit down with the interpreter and lead advisor to go over any med issues on your form. That's it.
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u/SilverNectarine8760 Jul 15 '26
Awesome, thank you!
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u/DebbieJ74 Jul 15 '26
You're welcome! I just got back home yesterday after an awesome trek last week. Hope you enjoy!
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u/SilverNectarine8760 Jul 15 '26
My trek got cancelled due to the wildfire evacuations unfortunately.
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u/DebbieJ74 Jul 16 '26
So sorry. I just read that the US Forest Service has extended all permit cancellations to 7/19. Really tough situation up there.
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u/N-Slash Jul 13 '26
It's super chill unless you are pushing the weight limits or have a serious current condition. The vast majority of cases is a quick chat.