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Does Insurance Cover Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is covered by Medicare and most private insurers for FDA-approved indications only. These include diabetic wounds, decompression illness, carbon monoxide poisoning, and about 12 other specific conditions. Wellness, anti-aging, and off-label uses are not covered.

Partially Covered

Medicare Coverage

Medicare covers HBOT for 15 specified conditions under NCD 20.29. Diabetic wounds require Wagner grade III+, failed 30+ days of standard wound care, and ongoing evaluation every 30 days. Not covered for wellness, anti-aging, TBI, or conditions not on the approved list.

NCD References

NCD 20.29 — Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Coverage Conditions

  • Acute carbon monoxide intoxication
  • Decompression illness
  • Gas embolism / gas gangrene
  • Acute traumatic peripheral ischemia
  • Crush injuries / severed limbs
  • Necrotizing fasciitis
  • Chronic refractory osteomyelitis
  • Osteoradionecrosis / soft tissue radionecrosis
  • Diabetic wounds (Wagner III+, failed 30 days standard care)
  • Cyanide poisoning
  • Actinomycosis (refractory)

Eligible Providers

Physicians (MD/DO)Hospital outpatient departments
Use our Medicare Coverage Checker for instant results →

Private Insurance Coverage

Most private plans follow Medicare's approved conditions list. Coverage requires pre-authorization and documented medical necessity. Treatment at hospital-based or accredited wound care centers is more likely to be covered than freestanding HBOT clinics. Out-of-pocket cost for non-covered uses: $150-400 per session.

What about Medicaid?

Medicaid coverage for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot) varies by state. Some states cover it under managed care plans while others do not. Contact your state Medicaid office or check your plan's benefits guide.

CPT Codes for Billing

If your provider bills insurance for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot), these are the relevant CPT codes:

99183Physician attendance and supervision, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, per session

Tips for Getting Coverage

  1. 1

    Get treatment at a hospital-affiliated wound care center for best insurance coverage

  2. 2

    Ensure your condition is on the FDA-approved list before seeking coverage

  3. 3

    Get pre-authorization before starting treatment

  4. 4

    Document failed conventional treatments to strengthen your case

  5. 5

    For off-label use, ask about clinical trial enrollment — treatment may be free

How to Check Your Coverage

  1. 1

    Call the number on your insurance card

    Ask: "Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot) a covered benefit under my plan?" Get the answer in writing or note the reference number.

  2. 2

    Ask about prior authorization

    Some plans require pre-approval before treatment. Ask if a referral from your primary care doctor is needed.

  3. 3

    Verify provider network status

    In-network providers will cost significantly less. Ask your insurer for a list of covered providers in your area.

  4. 4

    Understand your cost share

    Ask about your copay, coinsurance, and deductible for this service. Out-of-network benefits may still apply.

  5. 5

    Check HSA/FSA eligibility

    Even if insurance doesn't cover hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot), you may be able to use pre-tax HSA or FSA funds. Get a letter of medical necessity from your doctor.

Cost Without Insurance

Low

$100

Average

$250

High

$400

Per

per session

Monthly cost: $400–$8000 (5x per week for acute conditions, 2-3x per week for chronic).

Use our Cost Calculator for detailed pricing →

Find Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) Providers

Browse our verified directory of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot) providers. Filter by insurance accepted, credentials, and location.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Medicare cover hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot)?
Medicare covers HBOT for 15 specified conditions under NCD 20.29. Diabetic wounds require Wagner grade III+, failed 30+ days of standard wound care, and ongoing evaluation every 30 days. Not covered for wellness, anti-aging, TBI, or conditions not on the approved list.
Does private insurance cover hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot)?
Most private plans follow Medicare's approved conditions list. Coverage requires pre-authorization and documented medical necessity. Treatment at hospital-based or accredited wound care centers is more likely to be covered than freestanding HBOT clinics. Out-of-pocket cost for non-covered uses: $150-400 per session.
Which states mandate insurance coverage for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot)?
No states currently mandate insurance coverage for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot). Coverage is at the insurer's discretion.
How much does hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot) cost without insurance?
Without insurance, hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot) typically costs $100-$400 per session (national average: $250). Monthly costs range from $400-$8000.
Can I use HSA or FSA funds for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (hbot)?
In many cases, yes. Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) may be eligible for HSA/FSA reimbursement with a letter of medical necessity from your doctor. Check with your plan administrator for specific eligibility rules.

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Last updated: May 2026. Insurance coverage changes frequently. Always verify with your insurer before starting treatment.