Current opinion in critical care
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Curr Opin Crit Care · Aug 2004
ReviewIntensive care in developing countries in the Western Pacific.
The rapid economic, scientific, and technologic development in Asia probably is the most important in the world today. Eventually, the development of health care and critical care medicine in the Western Pacific will be affected. Even with the problems that have to be faced, the future of critical care medicine in the region looks promising. ⋯ Simple ventilators with inexpensive monitors and defibrillators are the technology that is most needed. Good referral systems and greater use of physician extenders, such as nurse practitioners, to provide enhanced access to specialist care for critical illness should be promoted. A few high-standard ICUs with good facilities for education and training should be organized on a regional basis in each country.
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Critical care in India has grown very rapidly in the past decade. The Indian Society of Critical Care Medicine has developed into a strong national body that has established its own journal, academic program, and Web site. Its annual national congresses are well organized and very well attended and have a high degree of academic content. ⋯ Development of guidelines, starting formal training through a certificate course, and formation of a resuscitation council have been some of the other achievements of Indian Society of Critical Care Medicine. A number of problems still exist in the field of critical care in India. Considering that India as a portal for medical tourism, growth of this field is expected in the next decade.