Recompression Chamber Utilization at Naval Base Guam: An Update

Area of Science:

• Hyperbaric medicine
• Diving medicine
• Naval healthcare operations

Background:

• The U.S. Naval Base Guam recompression chamber (NBGRC) has provided hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO2) since 1971, primarily for decompression sickness (DCS).
• This study updates NBGRC utilization from 2017-2024, analyzing diagnoses, demographics, and costs, including pre- and post-COVID-19 data.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report diagnoses, treatments, demographics, and estimated costs of HBO2 services at NBGRC.
• To inform the Defense Policy Review Initiative for future resource allocation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 176 HBO2 treatments from January 2017 to November 2024.
• Abstraction of medical records for diagnoses, treatments, and eligibility.
• Determination of charges for non-Tricare beneficiaries using Medicare/Medicaid billing codes.

Main Results:

• 66 patients received 176 HBO2 treatments; 47% were civilians, 44% active duty, and 9% retirees.
• Non-dive diagnoses (59%) were the primary indication, followed by decompression illness (DCI) (35%).
• DCI indications significantly decreased post-COVID-19 (3 vs. 14 pre-COVID), with total reimbursements for non-Tricare beneficiaries at $102,274.94.

Conclusions:

• Civilian dive injuries are the major use of the NBGRC, despite its primary purpose to support active duty personnel.
• Billing and fee collection from non-Tricare patients for HBO2 services require emphasis.
• Increased HBO2 treatments are anticipated due to improving tourism and Marine relocation, necessitating policy and resource adjustments.