And getting treatment as soon as possible increases the chances of a complete recovery. Research shows that divers who receive treatment within six hours of the incident usually have the best chance of making a full recovery. Equally, victims of DCI who receive 100 per cent oxygen as soon as symptoms are recognised tend to fare a lot better than those who don t. In the UK, all divers should know the telephone numbers of the coast guard and the nearest recompression facility. Seeking treatment for suspected DCI from a local hospital or GP is a waste of your time and theirs.
Diving medicine is a very small and specialised field.
It is your responsibility as a diver to know whom to contact in the case of an emergency. When going abroad, try to find out the location and telephone number of the nearest chamber. Bear in mind that, in exotic destinations, facilities may not exist and emergency evacuation methods can be slow and rudimentary. In such cases, use caution and dive conservatively. Also remember that you have to pay for health care in other countries.