Recompression Chamber Utilization at Naval Base Guam: An Update

The primary purpose of NBGRC is to support AD operations. However, the current study demonstrates that the treatment of civilian dive injuries is actually the major utilizer of the recompression chamber. Meticulous billing and collecting of facility fees and physician fees from non-Tricare patients for HBO2 services should be emphasized. The COVID decline in treatments has not rebounded to pre-COVID levels, in large part, because of the decline in the Guam tourism industry. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatments are expected to increase as Guam tourism improves. In addition, the upcoming relocation of Marines from Okinawa to Guam will also increase HBO2 treatment numbers. The Defense Policy Review initiative needs to factor in the increase in HBO2 treatments because of both these factors. Although the intent of this article is not necessarily to discuss the impact, it should be emphasized that the Navy undersea community and the utilization of recompression chambers and hyperbaric medicine is a life-saving service. Policy changes and resource allotment should always remember this most important mission.