University of Cebu Medical Center (UCMed) has introduced Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) at its Skin & Wellness Center in Mandaue City, expanding its services in wellness, recovery, and preventive healthcare.
The hospital said HBOT delivers oxygen in a pressurized chamber to help support the body’s natural healing process. The service is now available at UCMed’s Skin & Wellness Center, located on the second floor of the hospital building along Ouano Avenue in Mandaue City.
“HBOT helps the body heal more effectively by delivering a higher concentration of oxygen in a pressurized environment,” Dr. Jennifer Tan, chairman of the UCMed Skin and Wellness Center, said in a statement.
According to UCMed, the increased oxygen supply can stimulate cell repair, promote the formation of new blood vessels, and reduce inflammation—processes that are important in recovery. The therapy may benefit people recovering from surgery or injury, as well as patients managing infections, diabetes, and respiratory or circulatory concerns.
The hospital said HBOT sessions may also support muscular tissue rehabilitation, ulcer care, and recovery related to several conditions. UCMed also cited possible applications in beauty care, anti-aging, and skin-related conditions such as atopic dermatitis, gangrene, and burns.
Inside the hyperbaric chamber, patients sit comfortably as air pressure is gradually raised to up to twice normal atmospheric pressure. This allows the body to absorb more oxygen than usual, which UCMed said may help tissues recover faster and function more efficiently.
Each session typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. Patients may relax, read, or rest during the procedure while oxygen circulates through their system.
“When tissues receive more oxygen, the body can repair itself faster, strengthen its immune response against bacteria, and support tissue regeneration,” Tan said. “It enhances the body’s ability to recover from certain injuries and conditions while supporting overall wellness.”
UCMed said the therapy is non-invasive and medically supervised. Its chamber can accommodate two persons, allowing a patient to be joined by a companion for added comfort. The facility also includes clear viewing panels and a two-way communication system to help patients feel at ease during the session.
For UCMed medical director Dr. Armando V. Tan, the addition of HBOT reflects a broader shift in healthcare, where hospitals are combining treatment with prevention and wellness.
“Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy has long been recognized for its role in improving healing and tissue recovery,” he said. “By bringing this technology to UCMed, we are expanding how we care for patients, not just when they are ill, but as they work to stay well.”
The hospital advised patients to consult a physician at the UCMed Skin & Wellness Center to determine whether HBOT is appropriate for their needs.
Cebu Business News
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