Murphy Applauds Senate Introduction of Historic HBOT Legislation

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., issued the following statement applauding the introduction of companion legislation to H.R. 1336, the Veterans National Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act, by Senator Tommy Tuberville.

"America tragically loses 17 or more veterans to suicide each day," said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. "Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are far more prevalent among the veteran community than most understand. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a promising treatment option that offers a lifeline to veterans with PTSD/TBI on whom other treatments have failed. HBOT has undergone extensive and rigorous evaluation that enjoys great evidential support, not only in the US but also in other countries, most notably in Israel. Historic progress was made last Congress despite strong opposition by the Biden Administration. I am proud to continue my fight, alongside Senator Tuberville, to make this therapy accessible to all of America's veterans."

"It is past time we offer our vets alternate forms of care," said Senator Tommy Tuberville. "These brave men and women often come home with scars from war that we cannot see. For veterans who have exhausted options, access to HBOT treatment could make a life-changing difference. September is Veteran Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and our service men and women facing mental health challenges should have access to alternative forms of treatment. This bill has had great success in the House of Representatives, and I’m proud to introduce it in the Senate where I hope to see my colleagues prioritize evidence-based treatment options for our vets like HBOT."

Background
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy accelerates the brain’s healing process by providing the bloodstream with elevated oxygen to reach and repair damaged tissue and restore normal function.

Studies demonstrate that HBOT is an effective treatment for veterans suffering from PTSD and TBI. Authors of one such study described HBOT as having "one of the greatest reductions in PTSD symptoms in a four-week period with any reported treatment."

Despite its proven efficacy and requests by Members of Congress, the Department of Veterans Affairs currently does not employ HBOT.

H.R. 1336, the Veterans National Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act, passed the House Veterans' Affairs Committee on May 6th, 2025.

Read the Washington Reporter’s coverage here.