The Safety of MD Hyperbaric: Why Our Chambers and Approach Make All the Difference
At MD Hyperbaric, patient safety is our top priority. We understand that hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a powerful and effective treatment for a wide range of conditions, from promoting wound healing to enhancing recovery and overall wellness. However, we also know that safety must come first in every aspect of our operations.
With the recent concerns surrounding HBOT following tragic incidents in the industry, we want to take a moment to explain why MD Hyperbaric is committed to the highest standards of safety. Our centers follows strict operational and compliance guidelines, utilize the safest chamber technology available, and ensure that every member of our staff is highly trained and certified to provide the safest and most effective treatments possible.
Why Chamber Safety Matters: The OxyHealth Fortius420 Advantage
One of the biggest factors in HBOT safety is the type of chamber used. At MD Hyperbaric, we use the OxyHealth Fortius420, one of the safest, most advanced, and FDA-cleared hyperbaric chambers on the market.
Pressurized with Air, Not Oxygen
One of the key safety distinctions between the Fortius420 chamber and other types of hyperbaric chambers is that our chamber is pressurized with filtered air, not oxygen. This is critical because some hyperbaric centers use monoplace chambers that fill entirely with oxygen, which significantly increases the risk of combustion or fire hazards.
Instead, our chambers use a much safer method: they are filled with filtered air, and patients receive medical-grade oxygen through a mask or hood. This approach minimizes fire risk while still delivering the therapeutic benefits of HBOT.
Built for Strength and Security
The OxyHealth Fortius420 is a hard-sided chamber built with medical-grade steel, designed to withstand high pressures safely, and complies with the fire code requirements of ASME PVHO-1. Unlike soft-sided (mild) hyperbaric chambers, which operate at lower pressures and may lack the structural integrity for medical-grade treatment, the Fortius420 allows us to deliver full-pressure treatments with the highest level of safety.
With its transparent viewing panels, the chamber also provides a comfortable experience for patients while allowing our trained staff to monitor every session closely.
Expertise and Certification: The Foundation of Our Safe Operations
Technology alone does not ensure safety—expertise does. At MD Hyperbaric, we have built a team of highly trained professionals who are certified, experienced, and dedicated to patient care.
IBUM-Certified Hyperbaric Technicians
All of our technicians are certified by the International Board of Undersea Medicine (IBUM). This means they have undergone rigorous training in hyperbaric chamber operation, patient safety, and emergency protocols. Their expertise ensures that every session is conducted safely, with precise control over chamber pressurization, oxygen delivery, and patient comfort.
Our staff is trained to:
- Educate patients on the benefits and risks of HBOT before treatment.
- Carefully monitor patients throughout their session.
- Ensure compliance with all safety regulations.
- Respond swiftly in case of an emergency.
Medical Oversight by UHMS-Certified Directors
In addition to our certified technicians, our hyperbaric medicine program is overseen by medical directors who are certified by the Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society (UHMS).
This certification ensures that our medical team has extensive knowledge of hyperbaric medicine, treatment protocols, and safety standards. Their expertise is critical in patient evaluation, determining the appropriate treatment plans, and ensuring that every patient receives HBOT in a medically responsible manner.
Comprehensive Patient Monitoring and Support
At MD Hyperbaric, safety doesn’t stop at equipment and certifications—it extends to the entire patient experience.
Before starting HBOT, every patient undergoes a thorough evaluation to ensure they are a good candidate for treatment. Our trained staff takes the time to educate each patient about the process, the benefits, and any potential risks. We believe that informed patients are empowered patients.
During every session:
- Our trained technicians monitor the chamber’s pressure, oxygen levels, and patient condition in real-time.
- Patients receive ongoing support and reassurance throughout their treatment.
- Our team is always on hand to assist with ear equalization, pressure adjustments, or any discomfort patients may experience.
This high level of hands-on care ensures that each session is not only safe but also comfortable and stress-free.
Strict Compliance with Federal, State, and Local Safety Standards
Safety is not just about best practices—it’s also about compliance. MD Hyperbaric is fully compliant with all federal, state, and local regulations governing hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
We strictly adhere to:
- FDA regulations for hyperbaric medical devices.
- OSHA safety standards for workplace safety.
- NFPA 99 Fire and building codes specific to hyperbaric facilities.
- Regular inspections and maintenance to ensure that all equipment is in optimal condition.
Our commitment to compliance ensures that we not only meet industry standards but exceed them, setting the gold standard for safety in HBOT.
Why Our Approach to HBOT is the Safest Choice
With recent events bringing attention to the risks of hyperbaric therapy in certain facilities, we want our patients to understand why MD Hyperbaric is different.
1. We Use the Safest Chamber Technology
The OxyHealth Fortius420 is pressurized with air, not oxygen, significantly reducing fire risk.
It is built for strength and safety, ensuring a secure environment.
2. Our Staff is Highly Trained and Certified
All technicians are IBUM-certified in hyperbaric operations.
Medical directors are UHMS-certified, providing expert oversight.
3. We Provide Hands-On Patient Support
Every session is monitored in real-time by trained professionals.
Patients are educated on risks and benefits before treatment.
4. We Uphold the Highest Safety Standards
We comply with all federal, state, and local safety regulations.
We perform routine inspections and maintenance to keep our facility in top condition.
We regulate what is permitted within the chamber and what clothing patients are permitted to wear during sessions.
Peace of Mind in Every Session
We understand that patients come to MD Hyperbaric not only seeking healing but also looking for a safe and trustworthy environment. Whether you’re using HBOT for recovery, wellness, or medical treatment, you can rest assured that your safety is our number one priority.
If you have any concerns or questions about hyperbaric oxygen therapy, our chambers, or our safety protocols, our team is always here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we are making HBOT safer, more effective, and more accessible to those who need it.
Experience hyperbaric therapy with confidence—because at MD Hyperbaric, safety comes first.
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What Our Patients Say
Real Patients. Real Results
Post-Surgical Recovery“Getting HBOT helped me a lot with my wound healing. I noticed my scars remarkably lightened. My mood and energy levels improved as well in just three weeks of getting two sessions each week — despite my demanding work schedule, I felt like I had more energy.”Namae
Inflammatory Bowel Disease“I was prescribed HBOT by my specialist to treat a complex and traumatic issue stemming from IBD and reconstructive GI surgeries. I did a full course and absolutely saw improvement right away. The staff are amazing, very professional and caring.”Kathleen
Injury Recovery“I broke my wrist playing tennis and came to MD Hyperbaric Westchester to help speed up my recovery. After a few sessions I have felt a tremendous improvement in energy, sleep — and my doctor says my wrist is healing remarkably well.”John
Cancer Adjunct“I'm a breast cancer survivor, and after radiation near my lungs, I thought this treatment might be useful. I can feel a difference in my breathing and cognition. I definitely recommend it if your body has gone through a traumatic experience.”Aziza
Wellness“I recently began using Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at MD Hyperbaric, and it's been one of the most unique and impactful wellness treatments I've explored. I was drawn in by the potential benefits for anxiety, fatigue, and overall cellular repair, but I didn't expect it to feel this restorative — and my skin is glowing too!”Olesia
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Frequently Asked Questions
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a proven treatment that enhances healing by flooding the body with oxygen. Used for over 100 years, it supports brain health, anti-aging, athletic recovery, and medical conditions by boosting oxygen in blood, tissues, and organs. Patients breathe 100% oxygen in a pressurized chamber, accelerating recovery and promoting cellular repair.
HBOT is FDA-approved for 14 conditions like burns, carbon monoxide poisoning, and non-healing wounds. Emerging research also supports its use for post-surgical recovery, brain injury, fatigue, inflammation, athletic recovery, and anti-aging. Our medical team will assess if HBOT is right for you.
Yes, HBOT is safe when properly supervised. At MD Hyperbaric, treatments are protocol-driven, medically overseen, and administered by certified staff. Our Medical Director and onsite Safety Director ensure every session is carefully monitored, and we continuously update our protocols based on the latest research to prioritize patient safety.
Typically, most treatment sessions are approximately 60 minutes, though some conditions may require up to 90 or 120 minutes. Pressurization and depressurization may add about 20 minutes to the appointment, so you should plan for about 90 minutes for your visit.
The number of sessions depends on the condition being treated. Some patients may benefit from a few sessions, while others may require a more extended treatment plan. A typical protocol will involve 10-40 daily sessions to build up oxygen in the cells. Our Medical Director will recommend a specific treatment plan to address your goals and needs.
Prior to treatment, please try to avoid alcohol or carbonated drinks. It is best to avoid smoking and other tobacco products during your treatment period, as they may interfere with the body's ability to transport oxygen. Otherwise, there are no restrictions for food or activity before or after your treatment. We encourage you to have healthy meals and stay hydrated.
Most patients find HBOT sessions relaxing. You will rest comfortably in a 7.5-foot-long steel chamber, breathing 100% pure oxygen through a mask. During pressurization and depressurization, you may feel pressure changes similar to airplane travel. A trained technician will monitor you throughout the session.
The term "dive" is used because the process simulates the experience of a deep-sea dive in a pressurized environment. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy has deep roots in diving as an important therapy for treating divers experiencing decompression sickness.
At MD Hyperbaric, we use the FDA-cleared OxyHealth Fortius420, a spacious hard-shell chamber delivering 100% medical-grade oxygen via mask. It operates up to 3.0 ATA, allows tailored pressures, supports air breaks, and includes three windows for comfort and safety.
At MD Hyperbaric, we use hard-shell chambers that deliver 100% medical-grade oxygen at higher pressures for superior therapeutic benefits. Soft-shell chambers operate at lower pressures without medical-grade oxygen, making them less effective for medical treatment.
Our team will assess your medical history and specific circumstances through an intake process. An initial evaluation with certified staff and the Medical Director will determine your eligibility for HBOT.
No referral is needed. Our Medical Director will review your intake forms and prescribe HBOT if appropriate. If you have a prescription from a provider, we will coordinate with them. For serious health conditions, we may recommend getting clearance from your physician.
Some MD Hyperbaric centers accept insurance for certain on-label conditions — the FDA-recognized indications for which HBOT is an established standard of care. Whether insurance applies depends on your diagnosis, your plan, and the center you visit, so please contact your local center to confirm. Where insurance does not apply, HBOT is a self-pay treatment: most FSA/HSA plans allow reimbursement, and we can provide a superbill and receipt to help you submit a claim.
It depends on how you pay. For insurance-covered treatment at participating centers, your cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay, and coinsurance — the center verifies your benefits and explains expected costs before treatment begins. For self-pay treatment, we offer a variety of pricing options designed to suit different medical and financial needs, including pay-as-you-go and package options at reduced rates when purchased upfront. Please contact us to discuss pricing and options. We accept cash, credit, or check.