Fifteen years ago ambulances did not use capnography.  Now, medical professionals predict that, within the next five years, capnography will become the “staple technology” of an emergency responder’s standard of care.   If true, the legal ramifications are apparent.

by Peter A. Corsale (Gallop, Johnson & Neuman, L.C., St. Louis, Missouri)

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid forecasts that between 2010 and 2020, the average annual health spending growth (5.8%) will outpace the annual growth in the overall economy by 4.7% and comprise 19.8% of the GDP ($4.6 trillion).  With such amounts dedicated to health services, patients expect their physicians and medical care facilities, regardless of their location (urban vs. rural), to keep abreast, adapt, and use new technology.  There is little doubt that patients equate new technology with better and safer service. Continue reading “Breathing Easier with Capnography – A New Standard of Care?” →