Michigan Boy’s Death Highlights Dangers of Unregulated Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Following the death of a 5-year-old boy in a hyperbaric chamber fire at an unlicensed Michigan clinic, four employees face charges. The tragedy highlights the lack of state oversight for hyperbaric oxygen therapy outside of traditional healthcare settings, despite the therapy’s inherent fire risks and widespread use in unregulated wellness facilities. This lack of regulation allows clinics to offer unproven treatments for various conditions, raising safety concerns and prompting calls for legislation to mandate accreditation and improve safety standards. The absence of federal or state-level regulations mirrors a national issue, with thousands of facilities operating without accreditation, increasing the potential for future incidents.
John Q. Hosedrinker