Medical hazards at sea.

With the advances in the conservative management of surgical emergencies over the last 20 years medical hazards at sea are relatively few and do not differ significantly from those experienced ashore. A modern luxury linear is a safe place in which to fall ill provided that adequate medical services are available. Most British shipping companies maintain comprehensive medical services both ashore and afloat which are concerned with not only treatment but also preventive medicine. It is essential that passengers discharged from hospital or under treatment are provided with full medical documentation and details of current medication so that the ship's physician or an overseas doctor is aware of the diagnosis and treatment. Many companies can arrange special facilities for invalid passengers provided adequate notice is given in advance. It is advisable to contact the medical services of the company concerned if medical problems are anticipated during the course of a sea voyage.