FAQ-6

6) What is NOT HBOT?

Breathing 100% oxygen even at sea level (1 Atmosphere [1 ATA]) is not hyperbaric oxygen therapy; although, it can be therapeutic for headaches and diabetic retinal edema (plus a host of other issues). The body must be pressurized to receive the benefits of HBOT. Furthermore, exposing parts of the body to 100% oxygen, also called topical oxygen, is not HBOT, is not covered by Medicare, and has never been shown to be effective in a controlled study (that is, topical oxygen therapy or oxygen bag therapy is total marketing hype).

When selecting any HBOT facility you should confirm the following points (as a minimum): a) HBOT Chamber System must be ASME PVHO-1 certified; b) Medical Director must be an MD or DO; c) HBOT Chamber Operators must have attended a recognized course approved by the IHMA or the UHMS. It is a positive sign if the facility is licensed by the Department of Health, and the physician is board certified in hyperbaric medicine.

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