The proposed bill establishes a "hyperbaric oxygen therapy pilot program" aimed at providing treatment to veterans diagnosed with traumatic brain injuries or post-traumatic stress disorder. The program will be administered by the Department of Health and Human Services, which will create a hyperbaric oxygen therapy grant program to assist approved providers in delivering therapy and related diagnostic testing to eligible veterans at no cost. The bill outlines specific definitions, including terms such as "eligible veteran," "hyperbaric oxygen therapy," and "provider," and mandates that the department promulgate rules to implement the program, including application procedures, eligibility criteria, and oversight measures.
Additionally, the bill specifies requirements for providers participating in the pilot program, including the need for medical oversight, safety protocols, and accreditation from recognized organizations. It establishes a framework for treatment plans, billing procedures, and reporting requirements, ensuring that veterans are not charged for services rendered under the program. The bill also includes provisions for a comprehensive evaluation of the pilot program's effectiveness and participation rates, which must be reported to the governor and legislative committees after the program concludes.