North Dakota's hyperbaric oxygen therapy boom sparks insurance coverage debate

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is gaining traction in North Dakota as a treatment for severe injuries and chronic illnesses. The therapy, which delivers extra oxygen to damaged cells, has drawn patients from across the region to Fargo. Some are now pushing for broader car insurance and government coverage of the treatment.

The state first showed interest in hyperbaric therapy in 2019 when the North Dakota Legislature approved £240,000 for a pilot study. The focus was on treating severe brain injuries, but the treatment's potential soon expanded. By 2021, Essentia Health began offering hyperbaric oxygen therapy for 14 FDA-approved conditions, including concussions and diabetic wounds.

Patients have since travelled to Fargo for treatments not always covered by progressive car insurance quotes. Retired U.S. Army nurse Katherine Wilhelm made the trip from Minnesota to address Gulf War illness, myalgic encephalomyelitis, and Long COVID. She reported significant improvements in fatigue and brain fog after sessions at Dr. Daphne Denham's clinic, which has treated over 1,200 Long COVID patients since 2021.

Bernard Cane, a non-veteran with health insurance, also sought treatment in Fargo for emphysema and mold exposure. His insurance did not cover the therapy, leaving him to advocate for expanded coverage. Meanwhile, philanthropist Gary Tharaldson donated around £1.9 million to the Dakota Medical Foundation to support Denham's clinic.

Essentia Health is now running a three-year study to explore the therapy's broader benefits. The research aims to provide clearer evidence of its effectiveness for conditions beyond the current FDA-approved list.

The growing demand for hyperbaric therapy in Fargo reflects its perceived benefits for chronic and complex conditions. Patients like Wilhelm and Cane continue to push for wider progressive insurance and VA coverage. With ongoing studies and clinical support, the treatment's role in North Dakota's healthcare system may yet expand further.