ATLS
Advanced Trauma Life Support in Bulgaria
ATLS at a glance
Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS®) was first introduced in 1978. It is a global programme for clinicians all over the world, applying a systematic approach to the evaluation, management, care and treatment of trauma patients.
The goals of ATLS focus on the rapid and accurate assessment of the patient’s condition, and on the recognition, prioritisation and management of life-threatening injuries.
ATLS protocols provide specific guidelines for the evaluation and treatment of trauma patients during the “golden hour”, dramatically improving survival rates.
The clinician who first attends to the injured patient has the greatest opportunity to impact the outcome. Be the one — improve your skills and knowledge by attending an ATLS course.
ATLS Bulgaria is presented exclusively by BESTS. The first recognised course was held in May 2024 at the simulation center of Medical University Plovdiv, led by world-class instructors. The course trained 16 doctors and 6 instructors, globally recognised with a certificate from the ACS.
- 1Pre-test
- 2Interactive lectures
- 3Practical training — 4 trauma cases
- 4Final examination
Who can apply
Doctors, residents, teachers and final-year intern doctors.
Required documents
- Diploma copy (or enrolment document for intern doctors)
Documents must be submitted no later than 6 weeks before the start of each course session to Vessy Kostova, National ATLS Coordinator, at info@bests.bg.
Course preparation
ATLS is a very intensive programme requiring preliminary preparation. The ATLS course manual is made available one month in advance, as a digital or paper copy issued by ACS. The digital version is recommended — it requires no postage and avoids any associated delivery delays.
There are two course types — “Student” and “Instructor”. After completing the student course you may apply for the instructor course.
Course fee
The course fee is 600 EUR, payable after your application is approved. Please transfer it to the BESTS account below, quoting your name and course date as the reference:
- Account holder: BULGARIAN EMERGENCY SURGERY AND TRAUMA SOCIETY (BESTS)
- IBAN: BG29UNCR70001525948937
- BIC: UNCRBGSF
- Payment reference: First and last name – Course date
ATLS certificate
Successful completion of skills on various stations and a minimum test score of 75% is required in order to receive an ATLS certificate issued by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). The certificate course carries a 4-year international validity. Upon expiry, refresher courses are also available to re-certify.
View the full-size certificateApplication
Choose the course type and complete the application form.
Course timetable
Upcoming
Completed
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