Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is gaining attention across medical and wellness communities for its potential benefits in areas such as wound healing, tissue repair, and recovery support. As public interest grows, many patients are asking the same question:
“Is HBOT covered by insurance?”
The answer? Sometimes — it depends on the condition being treated.
Coverage varies based on the specific medical diagnosis, your insurance provider, and whether the HBOT facility is hospital-affiliated or operates as a private clinic.
This guide explains how insurance coverage for HBOT works in the U.S., which conditions may qualify, what limitations exist, and what to expect if you’re considering therapy at a private center, hospital, or wound-care facility.
Understanding HBOT: A Quick Overview
HBOT involves breathing 100% medical-grade oxygen in a pressurized chamber, typically between 1.5 and 2.4 ATA (atmospheres absolute). The increased pressure allows your body to absorb more oxygen into your bloodstream, which may help support the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
HBOT is FDA-cleared for a defined list of medical indications and is considered a standard of care in specific clinical scenarios. However, many patients are exploring HBOT for additional applications where insurance coverage may not apply.
When Does Insurance Cover HBOT?
Insurance providers, including Medicare, may cover HBOT for certain conditions. These are typically severe or complex medical issues where the therapy has demonstrated efficacy and is included in national coverage determinations.
Commonly Covered Conditions:
- Chronic non-healing diabetic foot ulcers (meeting specific criteria)
- Osteoradionecrosis or soft tissue radionecrosis (radiation-related tissue damage)
- Chronic refractory osteomyelitis (bone infections not responsive to standard care)
- Compromised skin grafts or flaps
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Decompression sickness (“the bends”)
- Gas embolism
To qualify for coverage, most insurers require documented medical necessity, a prescription from a qualified physician, and preauthorization. HBOT for these conditions is often performed in hospital-based wound care centers or hospital-affiliated outpatient clinics.
When HBOT Is Not Typically Covered
Many individuals seek out HBOT for reasons not included in insurance policies. These are often considered “off-label” or investigational by insurers, even if early research or patient-reported outcomes suggest potential benefit.
Commonly Excluded Use Cases:
- Cognitive support and neuro-recovery (e.g., post-concussion symptoms)
- Post-surgical recovery or general healing support
- Fatigue, inflammation, or immune regulation
- Athletic performance and muscle recovery
- Support during or after infectious illness (e.g., long COVID)
- Adjunctive support for chronic or complex health challenges
While ongoing research explores these and other applications, coverage policies generally do not recognize them as medically necessary under current insurance definitions. As a result, most patients pursuing HBOT for these purposes pay out-of-pocket.
Why Some HBOT Centers Operate on a Cash-Pay Basis
Private HBOT centers, including MD Hyperbaric, are often cash-based providers. This model allows clinics to offer access to therapy without the potential delays and limitations of insurance approvals.
Reasons for operating outside insurance networks include:
- Expanded Use: Providers may serve individuals seeking HBOT for wellness, performance, or recovery support not recognized by insurers.
- Streamlined Access: Patients can begin therapy without waiting weeks for insurance authorization or referral approvals.
- Greater Flexibility: Clinics can offer personalized protocols and scheduling options outside of potential hospital constraints.
It’s important to note that not accepting insurance doesn’t immediately mean a clinic lacks clinical rigor or safe practices. For example, MD Hyperbaric utilizes FDA-cleared, medical-grade hard chambers and follows strict fire safety and patient screening protocols under medical oversight. Not all clinics are equivalent, so it is important to do research on the hyperbaric clinic and speak with a physician before scheduling your first session.
Can You Get Reimbursed by Insurance After Paying Cash?
In some cases, patients may be able to submit claims for out-of-network reimbursement. However, success depends on multiple factors:
- The condition being addressed must be a covered indication
- The prescribing physician must provide documentation of medical necessity
- Your insurance plan must include out-of-network benefits
- The clinic must provide a detailed superbill or invoice
Even when all of these are in place, reimbursement is not guaranteed. For off-label or wellness-based uses, reimbursement is rarely approved.
What to Ask Your Insurance Provider
If you are considering HBOT and want to explore insurance options, ask your insurer:
- Is HBOT covered under my plan?
- What diagnoses qualify for coverage?
- Is prior authorization required?
- What documentation must be submitted?
- Are there limits on the number of sessions?
- Does coverage apply only in hospital-based settings?
- Does my plan include out-of-network reimbursement?
What About FSA, HSA, or Financing?
Even when insurance doesn’t apply, there are ways to make HBOT more accessible:
- FSA/HSA Accounts: Many patients use Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Spending Accounts to pay for HBOT, especially when medically recommended.
- Medical Financing: Clinics may partner with services like CareCredit to allow patients to spread costs over time.
- Introductory Packages: Some centers, including MD Hyperbaric, offer multi-session packages or new patient promotions to reduce per-session costs.
Final Thoughts: Making an Informed Choice
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a powerful tool with established medical uses and growing exploration in wellness, recovery, and regenerative health. Insurance coverage, however, remains narrow and limited to FDA-cleared uses under specific criteria.
If you’re considering HBOT, it’s important to:
- Understand your goals for therapy
- Clarify whether your condition is covered
- Speak with your provider and insurer
- Weigh the benefits of immediate access versus potential reimbursement
Clinics like MD Hyperbaric are committed to transparency and medical integrity. Whether you’re seeking information about traditional indications or exploring HBOT for wellness support, their team can help guide you with clarity and professionalism.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or insurance advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for personal recommendations and check with your insurance company for current policy details.