Greenville Reporter

Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. has introduced the Veterans’ National Traumatic Injury Treatment Act in Washington, D.C. This bipartisan legislation aims to create a pilot program at the Department of Veterans Affairs to provide hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for veterans diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or traumatic brain injury (TBI).

"America tragically loses 17 or more veterans to suicide each day," stated Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. He emphasized that PTSD and TBIs are more common among veterans than widely recognized. According to him, "Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a promising treatment option that offers a lifeline to veterans with PTSD/TBI on whom other treatments have failed." He noted that HBOT has been thoroughly evaluated and is supported by evidence from both the United States and other countries, particularly Israel.

Murphy highlighted the progress made in previous Congress sessions despite opposition from the Biden Administration. "I am proud to continue my fight, which started in the North Carolina House of Representatives, to make this therapy accessible to all of America's veterans," he added.

Research indicates that HBOT effectively treats PTSD and TBI among veterans. However, despite its proven benefits and requests from Members of Congress, the Department of Veterans Affairs does not currently utilize HBOT.

Murphy had previously introduced similar legislation in past Congress sessions and advocated for HBOT during his tenure in the North Carolina House of Representatives.

The proposed legislation is backed by several organizations including The American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, AMVETS, Fleet Reserve Association, Military-Veterans Advocacy, and TreatNOW.

Cosponsors for this bill include Reps. Don Davis (D-NC), Jennifer Kiggans (R-VA), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Rob Wittman (R-VA), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), Sherri Biggs (R-SC), and Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY).