Patient Guide to Hyperbaric Therapy | Simcoe Hyperbarics
Simcoe Hyperbarics Clinic

Patient Information & Care Guide

Everything you need to know about preparing for, receiving, and recovering from Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Barrie.

100% OHIP Covered

For patients with approved medical indications, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is fully covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). There are no out-of-pocket costs for your treatment.

What is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy involves breathing pure oxygen while inside a specialized chamber where the air pressure is significantly higher than normal. This increased pressure allows your lungs to absorb much higher levels of oxygen, which is then carried by your blood to help repair damaged tissues, fight infections, and stimulate the body's natural healing processes.

Under these conditions, your blood can carry much more oxygen than would be possible breathing pure oxygen at normal air pressure. This helps fight bacteria and stimulate the release of substances called growth factors and stem cells, which promote healing.

How It Works

  1. 1

    Preparation

    Patients wear provided cotton scrubs. For safety, items like makeup, jewelry, and electronics are restricted inside the chamber.

  2. 2

    The Treatment

    You'll relax in the chamber as the pressure gradually increases. You might feel a 'popping' sensation in your ears, similar to flying, which can be relieved by swallowing.

  3. 3

    Duration

    Sessions typically last about two hours. A full course of treatment often involves daily visits over several weeks, depending on your specific medical needs.

Approved Indications Include

Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Idiopathic Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss

Woke up to sudden silence or ringing in one ear? Acting quickly with hyperbaric oxygen therapy can support hearing recovery.

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Compromised Skin Grafts & Flaps

Compromised Skin Grafts & Flaps

Concerned that a recent skin graft or surgical flap is showing signs of poor blood supply? Prompt hyperbaric therapy can provide critical oxygen support.

Learn More
Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Diabetic Foot Ulcers

Managing a chronic, non-healing diabetic foot wound that has not healed with standard wound care? Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can support tissue healing.

Learn More
Chronic Refractory Osteomyelitis (Bone Infection)

Chronic Refractory Osteomyelitis (Bone Infection)

Managing a deep, persistent bone infection that has not responded adequately to antibiotics or surgery? HBOT provides adjunctive support.

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Early to Mid Stage Avascular Necrosis

Early to Mid Stage Avascular Necrosis

Experiencing deep joint pain due to compromised blood flow to the bone? HBOT can help support bone microcirculation and joint preservation.

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Delayed Radiation Injury (Soft Tissue Radionecrosis)

Delayed Radiation Injury (Soft Tissue Radionecrosis)

Experiencing delayed side effects from previous radiation therapy months or years later? HBOT stimulates vascular repair in radiated tissue.

Learn More

References & Literature

Mayo Clinic

Comprehensive overview of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, including why it's done, risks, and what you can expect.

Read Mayo Clinic Overview

Cleveland Clinic

Detailed information on HBOT treatments, conditions treated, and the science behind hyperbaric medicine.

View Cleveland Clinic Guide

Health Canada

Official medical information and regulatory perspective on Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy from Health Canada.

Read Health Canada Information

OHIP Indications

OHIP covers HBOT for specific, evidence-based conditions, including:

View full indication details →

Ready to get started?

A referral from your physician is required to determine eligibility. You can self-refer to initiate the process.

Patient Self-Referral Form

Potential Side Effects

While HBOT is a safe procedure, some patients may experience minor issues. Our clinical staff closely monitors every session to ensure your safety.

  • Ear Pressure: Temporary discomfort or minor injury to the middle ear due to pressure changes (barotrauma).
  • Vision Changes: Some patients notice temporary nearsightedness that resolves after treatment ends.
  • Lung Issues: Extremely rare complications related to air pressure changes.
  • Oxygen Toxicity: Very rare instances of seizures caused by high oxygen levels.

Clinic Location

Address:535 Bayfield Street, Unit A2, Barrie, ON L4M 4Z9

Email:admin@simcoehbot.ca

Phone:(705) 302-6540

Fax:(705) 881-1119

Free parking available on-site for all patients.