A Model For Hyperbaric Referral Instructions

How delighted we'd be if every ProfilePlus page in the HyperbaricLink treatment center directory were linked to such clear and complete information for referring physicians as Virginia Mason Medical Center (Seattle WA) provides on its website. The center's updated Emergency Hyperbaric Referral Instructions page, strictly covering carbon monoxide poisoning, decompression sickness, and arterial gas embolism, neatly summarizes:

• Definitions/Causes
• Diagnosis/Symptoms
• Indications for hyperbaric treatment
• EMS management guidelines
• Patient information to capture

We think this simple format is a model of its kind. But why limit such helpful information to emergency indications? Referring physicians might benefit even more from expert guidance on chronic diseases and conditions.

O2.o is the news blog of HyperbaricLink, the independent web guide to hyperbaric oxygen therapy, at www.hyperbariclink.com