North Carolina State Representative Gregory F. Murphy has highlighted “Hyperbaric oxygen therapy” as a potential treatment for veterans suffering from PTSD and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). He noted significant progress made in the last Congress despite opposition.
“America tragically loses 17 or more veterans to suicide each day,” said Rep. Gregory F. Murphy. “Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are far more prevalent among the veteran community than most understand. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a promising treatment option that offers a lifeline to veterans with PTSD/TBI on whom other treatments have failed. HBOT has undergone extensive and rigorous evaluation that enjoys great evidential support, not only in the US but also in other countries, most notably in Israel.”
Murphy expressed his support for companion legislation to H.R. 1336, known as the Veterans National Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act, introduced by Senator Tommy Tuberville. This legislation aims to expand access to hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT), which delivers elevated oxygen levels to the bloodstream, aiding in brain tissue repair and function restoration.
According to Murphy, “Historic progress was made last Congress despite strong opposition by the Biden Administration.” He said his commitment to continue advocating for this therapy alongside Senator Tuberville to ensure it becomes accessible to all American veterans.
Studies have suggested that HBOT is effective in treating veterans with PTSD and TBIs, showing significant symptom reductions over four weeks. However, the Department of Veterans Affairs currently does not utilize HBOT. The bill passed the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee on May 6, 2025.
Senator Tuberville emphasized the importance of offering alternative care options for veterans: “It is past time we offer our vets alternate forms of care,” he said. Tuberville noted that many veterans return home with invisible scars from war and that access to HBOT could be life-changing for those who have exhausted other options. He also mentioned September as Veteran Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, stressing the need for alternative treatments.
Murphy is serving his fourth term representing North Carolina’s Third Congressional District and is involved in several committees, including the House Ways and Means Committee and the House Veterans Affairs Committee. He co-chairs the House GOP Doctors Caucus and holds degrees from Davidson College and the University of North Carolina’s School of Medicine. Murphy is recognized as the only practicing surgeon in Congress.
