Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Covered by Insurance?

The short answer

For FDA-approved indications, hyperbaric oxygen therapy is typically covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most major commercial insurers when medical necessity is documented. Coverage isn't automatic — it depends on your specific diagnosis, that you've met the clinical criteria (such as a wound that hasn't responded to standard care), and that the documentation supports it.

Which conditions usually qualify

Covered, FDA-approved indications commonly include:

• Diabetic lower-extremity wounds that have failed standard care
• Other chronic non-healing and hypoxic wounds meeting criteria
• Late-effect radiation tissue injury, including osteoradionecrosis
• Idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss
• Chronic refractory osteomyelitis and several other recognized indications

Which uses are self-pay

Uses that aren't FDA-approved indications — such as post-COVID recovery, most chronic-pain uses, and wellness uses like athletic recovery or healthy aging — are generally not covered and are provided on a self-pay basis. We're upfront about pricing for these on your consultation call, and we'll never present an off-label use as if it were covered care.

How the paperwork actually works

Documentation is where coverage is won or lost. Our team handles the pre-authorization process: gathering records from your referring physician, documenting medical necessity, and coordinating with your insurer before treatment begins. You don't need a referral just to come in for a consultation — and if your indication is covered, we'll work with your other physicians to support the paperwork.