Critical Care Medicine

These specialists typically provide care within the hospital ICU, not by outpatient referral. A critical care doctor becomes involved when:

• A patient requires mechanical ventilation
• There is evidence of sepsis, shock, or organ failure
• Complex, unstable vital signs need constant management
• The patient requires sedation, pain management, and close monitoring

Q1: What is the role of a critical care physician?
A1: Critical care physicians manage life-threatening conditions in the ICU, including respiratory failure, sepsis, and organ dysfunction. They work closely with specialists and nurses to stabilize patients and support recovery.

Q2: Can I see a critical care doctor outside the hospital?
A2: These specialists typically treat patients only during an ICU stay. However, BASS providers may be involved in outpatient care coordination and follow-up once a patient is stabilized.

Q3: What’s the difference between Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine?
A3: Pulmonary specialists focus on chronic lung conditions, while critical care physicians handle acute, life-threatening illnesses in the ICU. Many BASS doctors are dual-trained in both.