[Omatako]

When we went to te US to fetch our bat two years ago we took out med insurance. It was broken down into 3 rates. One for the US, one for the trip while at sea and one for the assorted South Pacific Islands. The rate for while we wer in the US was double the next lower rate.

Back to injuries. Chopped off fingers happen more often than one would expect. The most common one thought I think is broken ribs. I have had that twice at sea. The solution is actally simple in both these instances because the doc will do the same as what you would do. Strap it up and look after it.

One thing that I suffer from at sea is psoriasis which I got the first time years ago from having my feet constantly wet for long periods without being able to dry them (don't ask). It first appeared on my feet and then spread to around my knees. When treated (easily done) it appears to go away and for long periods you will think it has gone but it comes back with amazing regularity. I have been told that once you have had it you will always have it. Not dangerous but can be really uncomfortable. Its itchy (often confused with athletes foot) but the real discomfort comes from thickening of the skin which can reach alarming proportions. On one voyge I had it so bad on my feet that when I went ashore I couldn't walk.