The development of hyperbaric and diving medicine in Singapore

Abstract

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a noninvasive therapy used in the treatment of diving-related medical illnesses. It is an important adjunct in the management of a variety of medical conditions. The Republic of Singapore Navy Medical Service (NMS) is the main driver of the development of hyperbaric and diving medicine in Singapore. The practice of hyperbaric medicine has inherent risks, and unregulated application of this therapy may do more harm than good. NMS and Singapore General Hospital (SGH) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to combine NMS' experience with the clinical expertise of SGH to provide holistic care for diving and clinical hyperbaric treatment patients. This collaboration would increase the profile of this clinical specialty in Singapore, and help to establish safe clinical practice guidelines, training and accreditation requirements for diving and hyperbaric medicine practitioners in Singapore, thus ensuring that the practice of bona fide hyperbaric medicine is safeguarded and patient care is not compromised.