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Hyperbaric Chambers

The three groups of the Azores Archipelago are equipped with three hyperbaric chambers, each one of them serving the islands of the respective group.

There is a hyperbaric chamber on São Miguel Island in the Eastern Group, which also serves the island of Santa Maria.

The Central Group features a hyperbaric chamber located on the island of Faial, which also serves the other four islands of that group.

In turn, the island of Flores is equally equipped with a hyperbaric chamber which also serves the other island of the Eastern Group, Corvo.

Emergency procedures in case of decompression sickness

Emergency procedures in case of decompression sickness

If the diver is conscious:

  • Administer fluids (preferably water) orally.
  • Supply 100 per cent oxygen at a flow rate of 15 litres / min.
  • Without interrupting the flow of oxygen, transfer the diver to the nearest hyperbaric chamber in the horizontal position.

If the diver is unconscious:

  • Use basic life support procedures.
  • Supply 100 per cent oxygen at a flow rate of 15 litres / min.
  • Without interrupting the flow of oxygen, transfer the diver to the nearest hyperbaric chamber in the recovery position.

Hyperbaric Chamber of Faial Island
Distance from the hyperbaric chamber of Faial to the other four islands of the Central Group

Horta Hospital
Estrada Príncipe Alberto do Mónaco
9900-038 Horta
Phone – (+351) 292 201 000

Island: 
Pico
Distance: 
4.5 nautical miles
Evacuation by: 
(sea rescue)
Island: 
São Jorge
Distance: 
20 nautical miles
Evacuation by: 
(sea rescue)
Island: 
Graciosa
Distance: 
46 nautical miles
Evacuation by: 
(sea/air rescue)
Island: 
Terceira
Distance: 
70 nautical miles
Evacuation by: 
(sea/air rescue)

Hyperbaric Chamber of São Miguel Island
Distance between the Hyperbaric Chamber of São Miguel and the other island of the Eastern Group

Divino Espírito Santo Hospital
Rua da Grotinha
9500 – 370 Ponta Delgada
Phone – (+351) 292 203 000

Island: 
Santa Maria
Distance: 
57 nautical miles
Evacuation by: 
(sea/air rescue)

Hyperbaric Chamber of Flores Island
Distance between the Hyperbaric Chamber of Flores and the other island of the Western Group

Sta. Cruz das Flores Health Centre
Largo 25 de Abril
9970-312 Sta. Cruz das Flores
Phone – (+351) 292 590 270

Island: 
Corvo
Distance: 
13 nautical miles
Evacuation by: 
(sea rescue)

Emergency number: 112