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Committee backs HBOT pilot for veterans with TBI and PTSD

3205730 · May 7, 2025

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Summary

The committee approved a pilot at VA to provide hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for veterans with traumatic brain injury and treatment‑resistant PTSD, advancing HR 1336 after sponsors cited early evidence and veteran testimonials.

The House Committee on Veterans' Affairs adopted the amendment in the nature of a substitute for HR 1336 to authorize a Department of Veterans Affairs pilot to evaluate hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for veterans with traumatic brain injury (TBI) or post‑traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Representative Murphy, the bill sponsor, described HBOT as a promising therapy supported by mounting evidence in the United States and abroad and recounted constituent testimony that the therapy had meaningful benefits. Supporters said a VA pilot would let the department examine HBOT’s safety and effectiveness at scale and provide options for veterans with treatment‑resistant conditions.

Opponents and some committee members urged careful evaluation and reiterated that the pilot must be evidence‑based. The committee nevertheless approved the substitute and voted to report HR 1336 favorably to the House. Members said the pilot will produce data for VA decision‑makers about whether to expand HBOT access. The committee requested follow‑up oversight and reporting on pilot design and outcomes.