Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, Explained Clearly.

Post-Surgery · Injury Recovery · Tissue Repair · HBOT · 8 Min Read HBOT for Post-Surgery & Injury Recovery: Why Oxygen Matters After surgery or injury, the body has a demanding job to do: repair damaged tissue, manage inflammation, restore blood supply and gradually rebuild strength and function. All of that requires energy — and oxygen is fundamental to many of the biological processes involved. That is why Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) has a long-standing role in selected wound-healing settings and why it is also attracting wider interest around surgical, soft-tissue and injury recovery. Why Oxygen Matters ↓ In This Article Why oxygen matters in recovery What HBOT changes What does the research show? Where the evidence is strongest When people consider HBOT Try, Rent or Own Guided by Davitt Common questions The Recovery Process Healing Places a High Demand on the Body Surgery and injury set a complex repair process in motion. Damaged tissue needs to be stabilised and rebuilt. Blood vessels need to deliver oxygen and nutrients. New tissue has to form. Collagen is produced and remodelled. Inflammatory responses need to be coordinated rather than simply switched off. Over time, the goal is not only for tissue to close or pain to settle, but for strength, movement and function to return. 01 Inflammatory Response The body responds to tissue damage and begins the repair process. 02 New Tissue Fibroblasts and other cells contribute to rebuilding damaged tissue. 03 Blood Supply New microvascular networks help support recovering tissue. 04 Remodelling Tissue gradually strengthens and function is rebuilt. Oxygen plays an important role throughout this process. This is what makes increased tissue oxygen availability an interesting area in surgical and injury recovery. The Science What Does HBOT Change? Normally, most oxygen in the blood is carried by haemoglobin inside red blood cells. Inside a hyperbaric chamber, increased atmospheric pressure allows considerably more oxygen to dissolve directly into blood plasma. The HBOT Effect Increased Pressure + Oxygen↓More Oxygen Dissolved in Plasma↓Increased Oxygen Availability↓Support for Biological Processes Involved in Tissue Repair This temporary increase in oxygen availability is relevant because research into wound and surgical recovery describes effects across several important repair processes. Fibroblast Activity Fibroblasts play an important role in producing the extracellular matrix involved in rebuilding damaged tissue. Collagen Formation Oxygen is important to collagen synthesis and cross-linking, which contribute to tissue strength during repair. Angiogenesis HBOT has been studied for its influence on signalling involved in the formation of new blood vessels and microvascular recovery. Host Defence Hyperbaric oxygen can also influence immune and antimicrobial processes that become particularly relevant in compromised wound environments. This does not mean every surgical recovery requires HBOT. It explains why oxygen under pressure is relevant to the biology of tissue repair and why HBOT continues to be investigated across surgical and injury settings. The Research What Does the Surgical Research Tell Us? HBOT has an established history in selected wound-healing and compromised-tissue settings. More recently, researchers have also been examining its wider role across surgical specialties. 2026 Review · Modern Surgical Practice From Wound Healing to Surgical Recovery A 2026 review examined the mechanisms and clinical applications of HBOT across modern surgical practice. The researchers reviewed evidence across areas including diabetic and vascular wounds, reconstructive and plastic surgery, burns, trauma, orthopaedic injuries and radiation-related tissue damage. The review describes how increased dissolved plasma oxygen creates a temporary high-oxygen environment that can support fibroblast activity, collagen cross-linking, angiogenesis and host antimicrobial defence. It also describes effects on inflammatory and redox signalling and microvascular integrity — all processes relevant to how damaged tissue responds and repairs. View the 2026 surgical review on PubMed → Wound Healing · Clinical Reference Why Tissue Oxygenation Matters in Difficult Wounds Clinical wound-healing literature provides some of the clearest examples of why HBOT can matter when tissue oxygenation is compromised. StatPearls describes increased plasma oxygen as one of HBOT's most pronounced physiological effects and notes effects including increased oxygen delivery to ischaemic tissue and increased neovascularity. HBOT is used clinically for selected complicated wounds and other recognised hyperbaric indications, where it forms part of a wider treatment pathway rather than replacing appropriate wound care. Read the StatPearls clinical reference → Oxygen is not simply something the body needs to survive. It is an active part of many of the processes involved in rebuilding damaged tissue. Understanding the Evidence Problem Wound Care and Routine Recovery Are Not the Same Thing There is an important distinction when looking at research into HBOT after surgery. Some of the strongest clinical evidence for HBOT comes from selected problem wounds, compromised grafts and flaps, radiation tissue injury and other situations where tissue oxygenation or healing is significantly challenged. An athlete recovering from a soft-tissue injury or someone healing normally after an uncomplicated operation is a different clinical situation. That does not make increased oxygen availability irrelevant to broader recovery. It simply means the evidence needs to be applied to the right situation. For routine post-surgical and musculoskeletal recovery, HBOT is better understood as a recovery option being explored around the body's existing repair processes — alongside the rehabilitation, nutrition, movement and medical care already required. In Practice When Do People Consider HBOT After Surgery or Injury? People come to ReWell at different stages of recovery and for different reasons. Some are preparing for a planned recovery period and want to understand HBOT before surgery. Others are already rehabilitating after an operation, sporting injury or soft-tissue injury and are looking at what else could support the recovery process. The useful question is not simply “Is HBOT good after surgery?” It is: what are you recovering from, where are you in that recovery, and how could HBOT fit around the plan already in place? Recovery Planning Where Could HBOT Fit? Planned Recovery Periods Some people explore HBOT around a planned surgery where recovery time and regular support are important considerations. Soft-Tissue & Musculoskeletal Injury HBOT may be explored alongside physiotherapy and progressive rehabilitation after muscle, tendon or other soft-tissue injury. Repeated Recovery Access Where regular sessions are being considered, home access can remove the need to travel repeatedly during a period when mobility or energy may already be limited. Working With Your Medical Team Following recent surgery, HBOT should fit around the existing medical plan rather than operate separately from it. Timing matters. Anyone recently undergoing surgery should discuss HBOT with the relevant medical team, particularly where there are wounds, drains, implanted devices or other clinical considerations. Explore Post-Surgery & Injury Recovery at ReWell → If HBOT could have a place in your recovery, the next question is how regularly you want to access it. HBOT Access in Ireland Try HBOT. Continue at Home. Or Explore Long-Term Access. ReWell gives you different ways to access HBOT depending on your recovery plan, how frequently you want to use it and what is most practical for you. Try Start With a Clinic Session New to HBOT? Experience a session at ReWell in Naas, Co. Kildare and understand what the process involves before deciding whether you want more regular access. 60 minute session €85 incl. VAT Book an HBOT Session → Rent Recover With HBOT at Home For people considering repeated sessions during a recovery period, a home chamber can make regular HBOT easier to fit around rehabilitation and everyday life. From €1,229/month incl. VAT Explore Home HBOT Rental → Own Long-Term HBOT Access ReWell also supplies soft-shell and hard-shell hyperbaric chambers for people who want long-term access at home or within a professional setting. From €9,999 excl. VAT Explore HBOT Chambers → If you decide to purchase later, up to six months of eligible ReWell rental payments can be credited towards your chamber purchase. ReWell provides home HBOT rental with delivery, setup and ongoing support across all 32 counties. Guided Recovery Access Your HBOT Programme, Guided by Davitt Meenaghan ReWell's HBOT programmes are guided by Davitt Meenaghan, IBUM-certified Hyperbaric Safety Officer. “Recovery is individual. The important thing is understanding where someone is in that process and how HBOT can fit safely and practically around the care already in place.” Davitt helps ReWell clients understand screening, chamber options, pressure, frequency and safe operation. For people recovering from surgery or injury, that also means looking at the practical picture — what you are recovering from, the medical or rehabilitation plan already in place and whether clinic or home access makes the most sense. Talk to Davitt — Book a Free Discovery Call → Keep Exploring Recovery, Tissue Repair & HBOT Post-Surgery & Injury Recovery Explore how ReWell approaches HBOT around surgery, soft-tissue injury and rehabilitation. Explore Post-Surgery & Injury Recovery → HBOT Research Explore published research into tissue repair, recovery and other areas being investigated in hyperbaric medicine. Visit the Research Hub → Home HBOT Rental Learn about ReWell's home chamber options, nationwide delivery and guided access across Ireland. Explore Home HBOT Rental → Common Questions HBOT After Surgery & Injury FAQs Why is oxygen important after surgery or injury? Oxygen is involved in multiple biological processes needed for tissue repair, including cellular energy production, collagen formation, fibroblast activity and the development of new blood vessels. This is one reason increased oxygen availability through HBOT is studied in wound, surgical and injury recovery. Is HBOT used for wound healing? Yes. HBOT has recognised clinical applications in selected complicated wound and compromised-tissue settings. Its physiological effects include substantially increasing dissolved plasma oxygen and increasing oxygen delivery to tissues while under pressure. Can HBOT be used after routine surgery? HBOT is increasingly being explored around wider surgical recovery, but routine uncomplicated recovery is not the same as treating a compromised wound or another established hyperbaric indication. The relevance of HBOT depends on the individual situation, procedure, timing and wider recovery plan. When can I start HBOT after surgery? There is no single timing rule that applies to every operation. The type of surgery, wounds, drains, implanted devices, medical history and the treating team's recommendations can all affect timing. ReWell recommends discussing HBOT with the relevant medical team following recent surgery. Can HBOT be used alongside physiotherapy? People may explore HBOT alongside physiotherapy and progressive rehabilitation after musculoskeletal or soft-tissue injury. HBOT does not replace the movement, strength and loading work required to restore function after injury. Can I use a hyperbaric chamber at home while recovering? ReWell provides home hyperbaric chamber rental across all 32 counties from €1,229 per month. For people considering repeated sessions, home access can reduce the practical burden of travelling to a clinic during recovery. Screening and suitability should be considered first. Can I try HBOT before renting? Yes. New clients can start with an introductory HBOT session at ReWell in our Naas and Dublin clinics for €85 incl. VAT before deciding whether more regular access is right for them. The Bottom Line Recovery Is Complex. Oxygen Is Part of the Biology Behind It. Whether the body is repairing a surgical incision, recovering damaged soft tissue or rebuilding after injury, tissue repair requires a coordinated series of biological processes. Oxygen is involved throughout that process. HBOT gives us a way to temporarily and substantially increase oxygen availability under pressure. Its role is well established in selected wound and compromised-tissue settings, while research continues to explore its wider application around surgical, musculoskeletal and soft-tissue recovery. For someone considering HBOT, the most useful question is therefore not simply whether HBOT is “good for recovery”. What are you recovering from, where are you in that process, and could increased oxygen availability have a useful place within your wider recovery plan? Explore Your Options Planning Your Recovery? Explore HBOT for post-surgery and injury recovery, start with an introductory clinic session or talk to ReWell about regular HBOT access at home. Explore Recovery & HBOT Try HBOT in Clinic Explore Home Rental This article is for general educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. HBOT may not be suitable for everyone. Following recent surgery, discuss HBOT with your relevant healthcare team, particularly where wounds, drains, implanted devices or other clinical considerations are present. Screening and individual suitability matter before beginning HBOT.

The ReWell Guide to HBOT Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT): A Complete Guide to How It Works, Benefits, Research & Safety What actually happens inside a hyperbaric chamber? Why does pressure matter? And what does the research really tell us? This guide brings together the science, practical considerations and different ways to access Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Ireland. ReWell Ireland Updated September 2026 Evidence-Aware Guide Clinic Sessions in Naas Home Rental Nationwide Own Chambers From €9,999 + VAT 32 Counties Nationwide Support Start Here What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy? At its simplest, hyperbaric therapy combines increased atmospheric pressure with increased oxygen availability. A person sits or lies inside a purpose-built chamber while the pressure inside the chamber is gradually increased above normal atmospheric pressure. Depending on the type of chamber and protocol, oxygen may be delivered at different concentrations. The combination of pressure and oxygen changes the physical behaviour of oxygen in the body. In traditional medical HBOT, breathing high-concentration oxygen under pressure substantially increases the amount of dissolved oxygen carried in the blood plasma, in addition to the oxygen already transported by haemoglobin. HBOT is not simply about “breathing more oxygen”. Pressure is a fundamental part of the process because it changes how oxygen is dissolved and delivered within the body. In This Guide How does HBOT work? What happens in the body? Benefits & research Understanding ATA Soft-shell vs hard-shell What happens during a session? How many sessions? Safety & contraindications Clinic, rental or ownership? Frequently asked questions The Fundamentals How Does HBOT Work? HBOT works through two connected variables: pressure and oxygen. Increasing atmospheric pressure affects gases in the body, while increasing the partial pressure of oxygen changes the amount of oxygen available in blood and tissues. 1 Pressure Increases The chamber is gradually pressurised above normal atmospheric pressure. This controlled increase in pressure is measured in atmospheres absolute, or ATA. 2 Oxygen Availability Rises Under appropriate hyperbaric conditions, more oxygen can dissolve into the liquid component of the blood, increasing oxygen availability beyond that carried by haemoglobin alone. 3 Tissue Oxygen Changes Where blood flow is sufficient to deliver that oxygen, tissue oxygen levels can rise. These changes form part of the physiological basis for established and developing applications of HBOT. Hyperbaric chambers are available in different formats, pressure ranges and configurations. Inside the Body What Happens to the Body During HBOT? The science of HBOT extends beyond simply supplying oxygen. Research into hyperbaric physiology describes several interconnected effects produced by pressure, increased oxygen partial pressure and the body's response to those changes. More Dissolved Oxygen Under hyperbaric conditions, oxygen can dissolve into plasma at higher concentrations. This increases the amount of oxygen available for delivery through the circulation. Higher Tissue Oxygen Increased oxygen availability in the circulation can raise tissue oxygen levels where perfusion is sufficient to deliver it. Cellular Signalling Hyperoxia influences reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. In controlled amounts these molecules also participate in cell-signalling pathways associated with physiological adaptation and repair processes. Repair & Vascular Processes Research has examined HBOT in relation to growth-factor signalling, wound repair and angiogenesis — the formation of new blood vessels — particularly in areas where HBOT already has established medical uses. Benefits & Evidence What Is HBOT Used For? This is where it is important to separate established medical applications from areas where research is still developing. Hyperbaric oxygen has recognised clinical applications in conventional hyperbaric medicine. These include conditions such as decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, selected problem wounds, delayed radiation injury, refractory osteomyelitis and certain other specific conditions. At the same time, researchers continue to investigate HBOT across a much broader range of areas. The strength of evidence varies considerably by condition, treatment pressure, oxygen concentration, protocol and patient population. Recovery & Tissue Repair HBOT research includes wound healing, tissue oxygenation, post-surgical recovery and repair processes. The quality of evidence depends heavily on the particular condition being studied. Explore Recovery → Sport & Performance Recovery Research is examining whether hyperbaric exposure may have a role in exercise recovery, muscle recovery and selected sports-related injuries. It should not be presented as proven to prevent injury or guarantee faster return to play. Explore Athletic Recovery → Brain & Neurological Research HBOT is being studied in areas involving brain metabolism, neuroplasticity, traumatic brain injury and post-concussion symptoms. Findings vary between conditions and study protocols. Explore Brain & Concussion Research → Long COVID & Post-Viral Symptoms Emerging human studies have explored HBOT in relation to cognition, fatigue, quality of life and other persistent symptoms following COVID-19. This remains an evolving area of research. Explore Long COVID → Chronic Pain & Fibromyalgia Research has explored HBOT in fibromyalgia and chronic pain populations, including possible effects involving pain processing, cellular metabolism and inflammatory pathways. Explore Chronic Pain → Healthy Ageing & Longevity HBOT is also being researched in relation to aspects of ageing biology and cognitive function. These findings are interesting, but they should not be interpreted as evidence that HBOT reverses ageing or extends lifespan. Explore the Research → The Science We can explain with reasonable confidence what increased pressure and oxygen do physiologically: they alter oxygen partial pressure, increase dissolved oxygen under appropriate conditions and influence cellular signalling and tissue oxygenation. The Research Whether those mechanisms translate into a meaningful clinical benefit depends on the condition, the individual and the treatment protocol. That is why ReWell looks at condition-specific human research rather than treating every proposed use of HBOT as equally established. Understanding Pressure What Does ATA Mean in Hyperbaric Therapy? Hyperbaric chamber pressure is normally described in ATA — atmospheres absolute. Normal atmospheric pressure at sea level is approximately 1.0 ATA. A chamber operating above this increases the pressure around the body. You may see chambers described as 1.3 ATA, 1.5 ATA, 2.0 ATA or 2.5 ATA. These numbers matter — but a higher number does not automatically mean a better treatment. Pressure Broad Context 1.3 ATA Lower-pressure or mild hyperbaric exposure. 1.5 ATA Common in some lower-pressure soft-shell and wellness settings. 2.0 ATA Higher-pressure hyperbaric exposure available in suitable hard-shell systems. 2.5 ATA Higher-pressure protocols requiring appropriate equipment, training and safety oversight. Pressure is only one part of a protocol. Oxygen concentration, session duration, frequency, chamber type and the reason for using HBOT all matter. Read our guide to HBOT pressure → Chamber Types Soft-Shell vs Hard-Shell Hyperbaric Chambers Hyperbaric chambers are not all the same. One of the most important practical distinctions is between lower-pressure soft-shell systems and hard-shell chambers capable of operating at higher pressures. Portable chamber formats can make regular home access more practical for suitable users. Soft-Shell Chambers Soft-shell chambers are portable systems generally designed for lower-pressure hyperbaric use. Their size, installation requirements and accessibility make them particularly relevant for home rental and ownership. ReWell offers lying/hybrid, seated and accessible soft-shell options, allowing the chamber format to be matched more closely to the person, household and available space. Hard-Shell Chambers Hard-shell chambers use rigid construction and can operate at higher pressures. Depending on the model, these may be appropriate for private, professional, clinic, sports, recovery or wellness settings where the required installation, operational and safety considerations can be met. The right choice is therefore not simply “soft or hard”. It depends on why you are considering HBOT, how frequently it will be used, required pressure, space, mobility, budget and the level of operational support required. Compare soft-shell and hard-shell chambers → What to Expect What Happens During an HBOT Session? Although chamber types differ, the basic experience follows a similar pattern. You enter the chamber, the pressure is gradually increased, you spend the prescribed period at pressure, and the chamber is then slowly depressurised. During pressurisation, your ears may feel similar to how they feel during take-off or landing in an aircraft. You will normally be shown techniques for equalising pressure in your ears before beginning. Once at pressure, the experience is generally passive. Depending on the chamber, you may sit or lie down and relax for the duration of the session. HBOT protocols are not one-size-fits-all. Session pressure, duration, frequency and total number of sessions should be considered in the context of the individual and the reason HBOT is being used. See what to expect at your first session → Your Programme How Many HBOT Sessions Do You Need? There is no universal number of HBOT sessions that is right for everyone. Some established medical protocols involve defined treatment schedules. Outside those settings, the appropriate frequency and duration depend on the purpose of treatment, chamber pressure, individual circumstances, response and the evidence relevant to the particular condition. This is one reason ReWell places emphasis on a personalised programme rather than simply selling individual chamber sessions or assuming that the same schedule is appropriate for every person. For people who are likely to use HBOT regularly, home rental can also remove some of the practical barriers involved in repeatedly travelling to a clinic. Read the full session guide → Safety First Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Safe? HBOT is generally well tolerated when the person, equipment and protocol are appropriate, but it is not risk-free. Pressure and elevated oxygen exposure create specific safety considerations that should be understood before treatment begins. Ear & Sinus Pressure Pressure-related ear discomfort and barotrauma are among the more common adverse effects. Proper equalisation and controlled pressurisation are important. Oxygen Exposure Higher oxygen exposures can produce oxygen-related adverse effects. Appropriate pressure, duration and protocol selection therefore matter. Suitability Screening Untreated pneumothorax is a recognised absolute contraindication. Medications, respiratory conditions, recent surgery, pregnancy and other medical circumstances may also require individual assessment. Chamber Safety Oxygen and pressurised environments require strict attention to ignition sources, electronics, batteries, clothing, equipment and manufacturer operating procedures. Read ReWell's HBOT Safety & Clinical Standards → Accessing HBOT in Ireland Try It. Rent It. Or Own Your Chamber. ReWell offers three ways to access HBOT, allowing you to start at the level that makes sense for your circumstances rather than committing to one route from the beginning. Try First From €85 incl. VAT Start with an introductory HBOT session at the ReWell clinic in Naas, Co. Kildare and experience a chamber before deciding what comes next. Explore Clinic Sessions → Rent at Home From €1,229 / month incl. VAT Access HBOT more regularly at home with chamber rental available across all 32 counties. Eligible rental payments can be credited towards a later purchase for up to six months. Explore Chamber Rental → Own From €9,999 excl. VAT For individuals, families and professional settings wanting longer-term access, ReWell offers a range of soft-shell and hard-shell chamber options with delivery, installation and ongoing guidance. Explore Chamber Ownership → Personally Guided Not Sure Where to Start? Davitt Meenaghan · IBUM-Certified Hyperbaric Safety Officer Choosing HBOT is not just about choosing a chamber. Pressure, oxygen delivery, frequency, chamber type, safety and your reason for considering HBOT all need to make sense together. Davitt can talk you through the available options and help you understand whether clinic sessions, home rental or ownership is the most appropriate place to begin. Speak With Davitt → Selected References Research Behind the Fundamentals This guide is designed as an accessible introduction rather than an exhaustive systematic review. These sources provide useful background on HBOT mechanisms, clinical applications and safety. Camporesi EM, Bosco G. Mechanisms of action of hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Undersea Hyperb Med. 2014;41(3):247–252. PMID 24984320 → Thom SR. Hyperbaric oxygen: its mechanisms and efficacy. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2011. PMID 21200283 → Zhang Y et al. Adverse effects of hyperbaric oxygen therapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Med. 2023. PMID 37275378 → Undersea & Hyperbaric Medical Society. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Indications. View UHMS Indications → Frequently Asked Questions HBOT: The Practical Questions Is HBOT the same as simply breathing oxygen? No. Hyperbaric therapy involves increased atmospheric pressure. The combination of pressure and oxygen exposure changes oxygen partial pressure and, under appropriate conditions, increases the amount of oxygen dissolved in plasma. Does a higher ATA mean better HBOT? No. Higher pressure is not automatically better. The appropriate pressure depends on the chamber, oxygen delivery, intended use, protocol and individual circumstances. Can I have a hyperbaric chamber at home? Yes, suitable hyperbaric chambers can be installed for home use. The right option depends on chamber type, available space, accessibility, oxygen equipment, power requirements, safety and how frequently you plan to use it. ReWell provides home chamber rental across Ireland as well as ownership options. How much does HBOT cost in Ireland? At ReWell, a new-client introductory clinic session starts from €85 incl. VAT. Home chamber rental starts from €1,229 incl. VAT per month, while chamber ownership starts from €9,999 excl. VAT. Pricing varies according to the chamber and access option. How many HBOT sessions will I need? There is no single answer. Session number and frequency depend on the reason for using HBOT, the protocol, chamber pressure, individual circumstances and response. Some people use a defined course, while others are considering more regular access. Is HBOT proven for every condition it is used for? No. HBOT has established medical indications, while many other areas are still being investigated. Evidence quality varies considerably by condition. ReWell separates established physiology from condition-specific research so that emerging evidence is not presented as established fact. Who should not use HBOT? Untreated pneumothorax is a recognised absolute contraindication. Other medical conditions, medications, pregnancy, recent procedures and individual circumstances may require additional assessment before HBOT. Suitability should always be considered before beginning. The Bottom Line HBOT Is Simple in Principle — But the Details Matter Pressure changes oxygen availability. What matters next is how that physiology is applied. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy has established uses within medicine and a growing body of research across recovery, neurological health, persistent symptoms, sports and other areas. But the evidence is not equally strong for every proposed application. Understanding the difference between the mechanism, the research and the practical protocol is the best place to start. At ReWell, that also means looking beyond the chamber itself — at suitability, pressure, oxygen, frequency, safety and whether clinic access, home rental or ownership best fits what you are trying to achieve. Wondering Whether HBOT Is Right for You? Speak with Davitt about your goals, the different chamber options and the most practical way to access HBOT through ReWell. Book a Discovery Call Explore Home Rental This article is for general educational information only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. HBOT has established medical applications as well as areas where research is still developing. Individual suitability, potential benefits and risks vary. Speak with an appropriately qualified healthcare professional regarding medical conditions or treatment decisions.