UHMS Position Statement: Physician's Duties in Hyperbaric Medicine - 99183.

Introduction: The Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS) is at the forefront of advancing medical knowledge and promoting patient safety in the field of hyperbaric medicine. In the dynamic landscape of healthcare, physicians' critical role in overseeing hyperbaric oxygen treatment (HBO₂) cannot be overstated. This position statement aims to underscore the significance of physician involvement in delivering HBO₂ and articulate UHMS's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of care and safety for patients undergoing hyperbaric treatments.

Abstract: Hyperbaric oxygen treatment demands a meticulous approach to patient management. As the complexity of hyperbaric patients continues to evolve, the direct oversight of qualified physicians becomes paramount to ensuring optimal patient outcomes and safeguarding against potential risks. In this statement, we outline the key reasons physician involvement is essential in every facet of HBO₂, addressing the technical intricacies of the treatment and the broader spectrum of patient care.

Rationale: Physician oversight for hyperbaric oxygen treatment is rooted in the technical complexities of the treatment and the broader responsibilities associated with clinical patient care. The responsibilities outlined below delineate services intrinsic to the physician's duties for treating patients undergoing hyperbaric oxygen treatments.