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Background

While traveling in Florence, Italy, a Global Rescue member was involved in a low-speed bicycle accident. A helmet prevented critical head injuries and the member was able to continue riding for the rest of the day despite what he perceived to be minor injuries.

Challenges

• Language barriers
• Local physicians’ refusal to discuss the member’s case
• Member refuses transport

Mission Summary

After visiting an Italian hospital, x-rays revealed a fractured wrist and several fractured ribs. The Italian physicians recommended immediate surgery. The member contacted the Global Rescue Boston Operations Center for medical information, guidance and further assistance. After taking a detailed history of the accident, Global Rescue obtained digitized versions of the x-rays from the Italian hospital for evaluation. Global Rescue and Johns Hopkins orthopedists reviewed the x-rays and determined that surgery was not immediately necessary but that the patient should return to the U.S. for treatment. If the injury was casted and he abstained from vigorous activity, he would be able to continue with his vacation as planned and delay his surgery until he returned to the U.S.

Despite Global Rescue’s recommendation to transport the member home immediately, he declined in order to continue with his vacation. To alleviate the member’s stress and reduce the risk of further aggravating his injuries, Global Rescue arranged for the member’s baggage to be shipped back to his home in the U.S. Global Rescue continued to monitor the member’s condition throughout the remainder of his vacation.

Outcome

Global Rescue successfully provided medical information for a member traveling in Italy. As a result, the member was able to continue his vacation as planned.

Doug Gulleson loves to scuba dive overseas and makes sure he has his U.S. health care and overseas health care, www.gninsurance.com/extreme-sports, information with him at all times when he travels.