Who we are
The Isle of Man Hyperbaric Medical Facility has been operated by the Kevin Gray Memorial Trust since 1984 following the donation of a single hyperbaric chamber after the death of Kevin Gray, a local commercial diver.
In 1992 a purpose built unit was opened on the site of the original hyperbaric facility. The Medical Facility comprises two multiplace chambers with equipment for the provision of intensive care, utilising mixed gases and saturation treatments.
Our objectives
To provide:
- A full time operation service
- A 24 hour online information service for divers
- Training and educational programmes in the application and provision of hyperbaric medicine
The work we do
The Medical Facility has two chambers differing in size in terms of occupant capacity and needs. Generally, the treatment programme requires patients to visit the hyperbaric chamber for an hour at a time, several times a week.
The hyperbaric facility has traditionally been used to treat divers for decompression sickness, known as ‘the bends’, however the main use of the chamber is for the treatment of acute and chronic medical conditions. These conditions can benefit from the increased levels of oxygen in the blood during hyperbaric oxygen therapy.
In recent years hyperbaric oxygen has proved effective in the accelerated healing of sports injuries, especially soft tissue wounds and ununited fractures. The improved healing time has proved useful for sports people who are dependant on a rapid return to form.
Divers who require use of the chambers can, in cases or emergency, be referred by themselves or the emergency services 24 hours and day for treatment. In all other cases a referral from a GP or a hospital consultant is required, however, please contact the Hyperbaric Medical Facility with any enquiries you may have.
The Chambers:
Multiplace Hyperbaric Chamber - No 1 The smaller chamber, this has room for up to six seated occupants, or a combination of occupants and attendants. The chamber is pressurised with normal air, or a combination of mixed gases, the oxygen is obtained through breathing apparatus (masks or hoods). On occasions, if the patient requires intensive hyperbaric treatment, the chamber may be pressurised higher than the larger chamber. Patients may stay inside the chamber for longer, on average 90 minutes.
Multiplace Hyperbaric Chamber - No 2 The larger chamber with room for up to 12 patients, depending on the level of injury of the users. This chamber is large enough to accommodate wheelchair users and other less able-bodied users, the ramp up to the entrance ensures easy access. This chamber is also pressurised with air and oxygen is then breathed using apparatus (masks or hoods).
How you can help
The Facility is substantially funded by the Department of Health and Social Security but we do depend upon additional public donations for its operation.
Fundraising and Sponsorship: If you would like to help by organising or sponsoring a fundraising event or nominate us as your charity of the year please contact us.
Legacies: By remembering the Kevin Gray Memorial Charity in your will.
Donations: If you would like to make a donation, please use our donate button.
Regular giving: By setting up a standing order.