It's the reckless recreational diver that is really at risk here. As far as "advising those affected by decompression sickness to go to the emergency room and seek alternative treatment," what alternative treatment is there?  You treat the diver for breathing problems or shock, give them oxygen and fluids, and GET THEM TO A HYPERBARIC CENTER!

As far as UH conducting research diving, in the absence of a treatment center, there should be no research diving conducted.  That will light a fire under the state to get the necessary funds to bring a specialist to Hawaii.