Education and training in hyperbaric medicine. The Icelandic experience. An example of international scientific cooperation

Abstract

The authors describe their experience in the practice, education and learning in the field of hyperbaric medicine, following a project of international scientific cooperation, first in history, between Italy and Iceland. As a result of this project, the first hyperbaric facility came into use in Iceland in March 1993, initially entirely run and economically supported by the Italian side. Since 1997 the activity has been entirely financed by Icelandic National Health System with a special budget established each year according to an agreement between Icelandic and Italian Health Authorities, leaving the medical and the economical management of the Service to Italian personnel. Hyperbaric medicine is now a reality in the Icelandic medical practice. Moreover, since 1994 young Italian doctors from the University of Trieste, Italy, enrolled in the School of Specialization in Anesthesia, Intensive Care, have received training at the Service of Hyperbaric Medicine of the University of Reykjavik City Hospital, as part of their training. The educational activity, endorsed by the Italian Ministry of University and Research, consists of a theoretical part and of a practical part of operational assistance. At the end of his or her training, the resident has a full knowledge of the indications for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) and of the related diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, is autonomous and is able to safely operate an hyperbaric chamber. An analytical report of the activity in year 2000 is also included.