Respiratory conditions include a range of disorders that affect the lungs and other parts of the respiratory (breathing) system, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchiectasis, sleep apnea, and pulmonary fibrosis. They can involve the airways, the lung tissue, or the blood vessels in the lungs. Some are mild and last for only a short time; others are long-lasting and life-threatening.
Treatment options for respiratory conditions may include medications, pulmonary rehabilitation (education and exercises), surgery, and respiratory therapies. One type of respiratory therapy is heated humidified high-flow therapy (HHHFT), which uses a blend of heated and humidified air and oxygen. HHHFT can provide more precise levels of oxygen, make it easier to breathe, and reduce the discomfort and condensation issues that come with traditional oxygen therapy. HHHFT is already used widely in Ontario hospitals and is considered standard care for people who require it. Recently, home-based devices have also become available. However, the costs of the device and its supplies make it difficult for people to access home-based HHHFT.
This health technology assessment looked at how safe and effective home-based HHHFT is for 2 groups of people: (1) children with obstructive sleep apnea who cannot cope with other types of respiratory therapy at home, and (2) adults and children in hospital with respiratory conditions who will need treatment at home once they are discharged and who have no other at-home options that work as well. It also looked at the budget impact of publicly funding home-based HHHFT and at the experiences, preferences, and values of people and care partners of people with respiratory conditions.
Read the full health technology assessment report for more information.
Home-Based Heated Humidified High-Flow Therapy for Respiratory Conditions : A Health Technology Assessment
November 2025
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