Are treatments in a hyperbaric chamber covered by the National Health Fund?

Principle of operation of hyperbaric chambers

A hyperbaric chamber is a specialized medical device that allows the patient to be exposed to high atmospheric pressure and high oxygen concentrations. The treatment is performed by breathing pure oxygen.  
This method of therapy allows for better oxygenation of tissues and organs  and acceleration of regeneration processes. Additionally, hyperbaric therapy can help reduce inflammation, increase collagen production and improve microcirculation, which translates into a better quality of life for patients.

Indications for hyperbaric therapy

Hyperbaric therapy is used for many conditions, both acute and chronic. The most important indications include: carbon monoxide poisoning, burns, chronic leg ulcers, soft tissue infections, and some neurological conditions, such as stroke or multiple sclerosis. In addition, hyperbaric therapy can be used to treat chronic fatigue syndrome, decompression sickness, or non-healing wounds. However, it is worth remembering that each case is different and the final decision to use  
an oxygen chamber  should be made by a doctor.

Reimbursement of hyperbaric chamber treatments by the National Health Fund

Currently, in Poland, hyperbaric chamber treatments are reimbursed by the National Health Fund only in strictly defined cases. This mainly applies to people with carbon monoxide poisoning and patients with tissue necrosis or decompression illness.  
In other cases, hyperbaric therapy may not be reimbursed , which means that the costs of treatment must be covered by the patient. However, it is necessary to follow current changes in the regulations regarding reimbursement, as changes in the scope of services financed by the National Health Fund are possible.