Led by Experience. Backed by Science.
THE HYPERBARIC OXYGEN TREATMENT CENTER
Dr. B. Monte Stewart, MD, FACS, founded Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment Center to provide physician-supervised HBOT and wound-care support for patients in Southern Oregon. The clinic uses medical-grade, hard-sided chambers in an outpatient setting, with evaluation and treatment planning directed by the medical team. Services are connected with Bear Creek Surgery’s surgical and wound-care work in Ashland and are also available in Klamath Falls.
Hard Chambers
Medical Supervision
Frequently asked questions
What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a medical treatment delivered in a pressurized chamber while the patient breathes medical-grade oxygen. Treatment is provided in a controlled clinical environment with patient screening, safety protocols, and medical supervision.
How does HBOT work?
Under increased pressure, oxygen can dissolve more readily into the bloodstream and reach tissues where oxygen delivery is limited. For selected conditions, HBOT may support wound healing, help the body respond to certain infections, decrease inflammation, and assist recovery when used as part of a medical treatment plan.
What conditions can be treated with HBOT?
HBOT may be appropriate for selected recognized indications and may be discussed case by case for some other conditions. Our providers review the diagnosis, medical record, available evidence, risks, and treatment goals before recommending HBOT. Coverage varies by diagnosis, documentation, treatment plan, and payer requirements. To view a list of conditions here.
Is HBOT safe?
Yes, HBOT is generally considered a safe medical treatment when administered in a controlled environment by qualified personnel. Like all medical procedures, it carries some risks, but complications are rare. The most common side effects are temporary ear pressure changes, similar to what you might experience on an airplane.
What are the potential side effects of HBOT?
HBOT is generally well tolerated when prescribed and monitored in a clinical setting, but it is still a medical treatment and is not risk-free. Possible side effects include ear or sinus pressure, temporary vision changes, oxygen-related effects, and rare serious complications. These risks are reviewed with each patient before treatment begins.
Our physicians, physician assistants, and hyperbaric technicians complete role-appropriate training in hyperbaric care through programs approved by the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society.
How long does a typical HBOT session last?
Treatment sessions typically last around two hours. This time includes pressurization and decompression within the chamber.
How many HBOT sessions will be needed?
The number of treatments varies depending on the specific condition and how you respond to treatment. Most patients require between 20 to 60 sessions. For acute conditions such as carbon monoxide poisoning or decompression sickness, fewer treatments may be needed.
What should I wear and how should I prepare for my HBOT session?
Clinic-provided clothing will be given to you prior to your treatment. Wearing 100% cotton clothing is essential to minimize static electricity. Synthetic materials and personal items like jewelry, makeup, and hair products must be removed before entering the chamber. Our staff will take the time to educate and explain these requirements to you in detail.
Can I bring anything into the hyperbaric chamber with me?
It is crucial to refrain from bringing anything into the chamber unless explicitly approved by the staff. This includes items like lighters, matches, electronics, and petroleum-based products. You will be given a list of items allowed and disallowed prior to your first treatment.
What can I expect during an HBOT session?
A typical session will last between 90 and 120 minutes (this includes descent and ascent times) depending on what your physician has prescribed. You will generally feel some sinus pressure which can be relieved by popping your ears (similar to clearing your ears when flying in a plane). If you feel pressure that is normal. Pain is not normal and you should communicate this to the technician immediately. Our technicians will be in the room and monitoring your treatment the entire time. Our chambers have the ability for you to talk to your technician through a speaker system. During all your treatments, an experienced, trained and credentialed hyperbaric physician or P.A will be immediately available on-site and an experienced, trained and credentialed hyperbaric technician will be in the hyperbaric room with you at all times.
Can I make an appointment and start my HBOT treatments immediately?
A physician or P.A. consultation, exam and prescription/treatment plan (based on your condition and medical history) is required prior to beginning hyperbaric treatment. In rare emergent conditions, where time is of the essence, you may be cleared to start treatments immediately.
Is HBOT covered by insurance and what are the costs?
Coverage depends on the diagnosis, medical documentation, treatment plan, and payer requirements. Some plans cover HBOT only for specific indications. Our team can help review insurance requirements and discuss self-pay options or foundation assistance when coverage is not available.
Are there age limits to receive HBOT?
There are no specific age limits that are contraindicated but patient age and conditions may change how the treatment is administered.
What type of hyperbaric chamber do you use?
We use medical-grade, hard-sided chambers operated with patient screening, safety protocols, trained staff, and physician oversight.
