High Altitude Simulation Test

People with chronic lung diseases or certain cardiac conditions may need additional oxygen when flying in commercial aircraft. Mease Countryside Hospital now offers High Altitude Simulation Testing (HAST) to help determine if you need extra oxygen when flying and, if so, how much.

During HAST, patients breathe the same oxygen and nitrogen mixture found while flying in a cabin pressurized to 9,000 feet. A licensed, respiratory therapist monitors your vital signs, including oxygen levels, during the test. A drop in oxygen saturation rate indicates that you would need more oxygen when flying.

HAST is only available by physician prescription. Consider asking your physician about HAST if you have one of the following conditions:

  • Emphysema
  • Chronic bronchitis
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
  • Asthma
  • Pulmonary fibrosis
  • Certain cardiac conditions

HAST Location:

Mease Countryside Hospital Pulmonary Lab
3231 McMullen Booth Road
Safety Harbor, FL 34695

To schedule an appointment, please call (727) 843-4563 or fax (727) 533-5954.