Rural physicians’ scope of practice on remote islands: A case report of severe pneumonia that required overnight artificial airway management

Abstract

Objective: To clarify the scope of practice on rural islands of Okinawa.

Patient: A 59-year-old man presented to our clinic with shortness of breath. He was intubated due to acute respiratory failure caused by severe pneumonia. We could not transfer him owing to bad weather, and had to continue patient care in the clinic for more than 24 hours.

Discussion: In remote regions, rural physicians may require a broad scope of practice from primary to tertiary care, in addition to preventive and end-of-life care.

Conclusion: This case illustrates the current state of emergency care and unique scope of practice on rural islands of Okinawa.