A Groundbreaking Documentary on Veterans' Health
Award-Winning Documentary Calls for Policy Change – "It's deadlier for a soldier to come home from war than it is to go to combat." This powerful statement sets the stage for an urgent conversation about veterans and their healthcare.
The Hyperbaric Institute proudly announces an award-winning documentary screening at the National Press Club, focusing on a critical issue: twenty-two veterans tragically die from suicide every day, many suffering from traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The film employs evidence-based storytelling to unveil a preventable crisis—highlighting the unavailability of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) for veterans through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), despite its potential benefits highlighted in various research studies.
The Impact of VA Policies on Veterans' Lives
This documentary, titled Undeniable Evidence: Clean Medicine. Dirty Politics, has already made waves, winning Best Documentary at the Syracuse International Film Festival and earning a nomination for the same title at the MV Shorts LA Film Festival. The film bravely explores the disconnect between clinical findings and actual policy implementation regarding HBOT for conditions contributing to the alarming rates of veteran suicides.
Since the events of September 11, 2001, over 155,000 veterans have died by suicide—an astonishing rate that is nineteen times higher than the number of combat deaths. Experts like Dr. Paul Harch have provided extensive research backing the effectiveness of HBOT in treating injuries sustained in combat, particularly brain injuries represented through advanced brain imaging techniques. Yet, the VA continues to deny access to this promising treatment.
Challenges in Accessing Alternative Treatments
Inspired by Dr. Harch's influential book The Oxygen Revolution, this compelling documentary shines a spotlight on the obstacles that veterans face when seeking alternative treatment options. At the screening, critical evidence will be presented that supports Congressional review, highlighting two significant bills currently under consideration:
? House Bill: H.R. 1336 – Veterans National Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act (Rep. Dr. Greg Murphy, R-NC)
? Senate Bill: S. 2737 – Veterans National Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment Act (Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-AL)
This advocacy has been successful; fourteen states have passed legislation aimed at improving access to hyperbaric treatment for veterans.
Meet Dr. Paul G. Harch
Dr. Paul Harch is a dedicated physician and researcher based in New Orleans, who has been applying hyperbaric oxygen therapy to treat traumatic brain injuries since 1989. His extensive portfolio includes numerous peer-reviewed studies on the application of HBOT for TBI and PTSD. Notably, he and his senior partner, Keith Van Meter, are poised to introduce the first hyperbaric-equipped ambulance in the United States, set to launch in New Orleans in the near future.
Event Details and Future Implications
THE HYPERBARIC UNIVERSE: EMERGENCY BRIEFING
The screening will include a 45-minute presentation showcasing multiple short documentaries, followed by a Q&A session featuring Dr. Paul Harch, R.N. Juliette Lucarini-Harch, and filmmaker John Salcedo, a U.S. Army veteran.
EVENT DETAILS:
National Press Club
529 14th Street NW, Washington, DC 20045
November 18, 2025 | Doors open 6:00 PM | Screening 7:00 PM
Contact:
The Hyperbaric Institute | John Salcedo | For inquiries, feel free to reach out via email.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the focus of the documentary produced by the Hyperbaric Institute?
The documentary highlights the challenges veterans face in accessing hyperbaric oxygen therapy for treating traumatic brain injuries and PTSD, amidst a crisis of suicides.
Why is hyperbaric oxygen therapy important for veterans?
HBOT has shown promising results in treating brain injuries, offering hope to many veterans suffering from the long-term effects of combat.
What statistics are presented regarding veteran suicide rates?
Since 9/11, it is reported that over 155,000 veterans have died by suicide, which is significantly higher than combat-related deaths.
Who is Dr. Paul Harch?
Dr. Paul Harch is a physician and researcher who has dedicated his career to using HBOT for treating severe brain injuries in veterans since 1989.
What upcoming events are associated with the documentary?
There will be a screening of the documentary along with a Q&A session involving key figures in the field, providing insight into veterans' health challenges.
