The Hyperbaric Treatment Center (HTC), a clinical program of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s John A. Burns School of Medicine (JABSOM), is celebrating four decades of life-saving care in Hawaiʻi. As the only 24/7 emergency hyperbaric facility in the Pacific, HTC has been a vital lifeline for divers, carbon monoxide poisoning victims, and patients with complex medical conditions requiring hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
“The HTC is an essential emergency service and training site for future medical professionals,” said JABSOM Dean Sam Shomaker. “For 40 years, it has helped cancer survivors manage radiation therapy’s long-term effects, supported diabetic patients in avoiding amputations, and treated patients with decompression sickness, or “the bends.’ “As we celebrate this milestone, we remain committed to expanding research, education, and access to hyperbaric medicine for the people of Hawaiʻi.”
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy delivers pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, enhancing healing and improving patient outcomes. The increased pressure allows oxygen to dissolve more efficiently into the bloodstream, accelerating the recovery process.
Established in 1984 at Kewalo Basin, HTC relocated to Kuakini Medical Center in 1994. Today, HTC features state-of-the-art electronic systems that enhance treatment precision and streamline care.
“As we celebrate 40 years of hyperbaric medicine in Hawaiʻi, we recognize HTC’s role in saving lives and advancing medical training,” said Steven Hankins, HTC medical director and JABSOM assistant professor. Hankins, named medical director in February, added, “Through JABSOM, we continue to train future doctors while providing 24/7 emergency care to our community.”
Advancing care and education
A $1.6 million state-funded renovation in 2021 modernized HTC with upgraded cameras, lighting, environmental controls, and a revamped control panel, improving efficiency and patient care.
HTC now treats 15 Medicare-approved conditions beyond decompression sickness and carbon monoxide poisoning, including radiation therapy, diabetic foot wounds, gas embolisms, traumatic injuries and sudden hearing loss. With advancements in hyperbaric oxygen therapy, the center has also become a crucial resource for complex cases such as failed surgical grafts and chronic wounds.
As part of JABSOM, it provides hands-on training for medical students, residents and fellows. “Hyperbaric medicine remains an under-recognized but essential therapy,” said Hankins. “By increasing training opportunities, HTC aims to raise awareness among future healthcare providers about the benefits of hyperbaric medicine and its role in patient care.”
In 2024 alone, HTC provided 2,132 hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions to patients suffering from tissue damage due to radiation and other causes, highlighting the increasing demand for specialized care.
Future growth
For 40 years, it has been our kuleana to provide these critical services, and we are committed to continuing this mission.
—Steven Hankins
HTC operates under JABSOM in collaboration with University Health Partners of Hawaiʻi, JABSOM‘s faculty practice. While clinical revenue supports operations, it does not fully cover costs.
Looking ahead, HTC aims to expand research—including participation in a national clinical outcomes database—and further integrate hyperbaric medicine into UH’s medical and nursing curricula. Hankins encourages community support through philanthropic contributions to the UH Foundation and advocacy for state funding.
“For 40 years, it has been our kuleana to provide these critical services, and we are committed to continuing this mission,” he said.
