Frequently Asked Questions About Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Get answers to the most common questions about HBOT treatments, what to expect, costs, insurance, and more.

General Questions

What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a medical treatment where patients breathe 100% pure oxygen inside a pressurized chamber. The increased atmospheric pressure allows your lungs to absorb significantly more oxygen than normal, which is then carried throughout your body via the bloodstream. This oxygen-rich environment accelerates healing, reduces inflammation, and promotes the growth of new blood vessels.

What conditions does HBOT treat?

HBOT is FDA-approved for 14 conditions including diabetic foot ulcers, non-healing wounds, radiation injury, carbon monoxide poisoning, decompression sickness, and certain infections. It is also used off-label for conditions such as Long COVID, traumatic brain injury, stroke recovery, and sports injuries. Our physicians evaluate each patient individually to determine if HBOT is appropriate.

Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy safe?

Yes, HBOT is considered very safe when administered by trained medical professionals in a clinical setting. It has been used for decades with an excellent safety record. Minor side effects may include temporary ear pressure similar to flying and mild fatigue. Our board-certified physicians and trained technicians monitor every session to ensure patient safety.

How is HBOT different from breathing oxygen at home?

Home oxygen concentrators deliver oxygen at normal atmospheric pressure. Medical-grade HBOT delivers 100% oxygen at 2.0 to 3.0 ATA, dramatically increasing the amount of dissolved oxygen in your blood plasma and reaching tissues that red blood cells cannot access.

Treatment Experience

What happens during an HBOT session?

You will enter the hyperbaric chamber and lie down comfortably. The chamber is gradually pressurized over about 10 minutes. Once at treatment pressure, you simply relax and breathe normally for the duration of the session. Many patients read, watch videos, or nap. After treatment, the chamber is slowly depressurized before you exit.

How long does each treatment session last?

A typical HBOT session lasts approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours, including pressurization and depressurization time. The actual oxygen breathing time at treatment pressure is usually 60 to 90 minutes, depending on your specific treatment protocol.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies based on your condition and treatment goals. Most protocols range from 20 to 40 sessions, typically scheduled 5 days per week. Wound care patients often require 30 to 40 sessions, while other conditions may respond in fewer treatments. Your physician will create a personalized treatment plan during your consultation.

Will I feel claustrophobic in the chamber?

Our monoplace chambers are transparent, allowing you to see outside at all times. The chambers are also equipped with communication systems so you can speak with our technicians throughout your session. Most patients adjust comfortably within the first session. If you have concerns about claustrophobia, please let us know during your consultation and we will work with you.

Cost and Insurance

Does insurance cover hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Yes, most major insurance plans, including Medicare, cover HBOT for FDA-approved indications. Coverage typically requires a physician referral and documentation of medical necessity. Our insurance specialists will verify your benefits and obtain prior authorization before treatment begins, so you know your coverage before your first session.

How much does HBOT cost without insurance?

Out-of-pocket costs vary depending on the number of sessions and treatment protocol. We offer competitive self-pay rates and flexible payment options. During your initial consultation, we will provide a detailed cost estimate based on your specific treatment plan. Contact us to discuss pricing and payment arrangements.

What if my condition is not FDA-approved for HBOT?

Many patients seek HBOT for off-label conditions such as Long COVID, concussions, or anti-aging. While insurance typically does not cover off-label use, we offer self-pay options to make treatment accessible. Our physicians will discuss the evidence supporting HBOT for your specific condition during your consultation.

Preparing for Treatment

How do I prepare for my HBOT session?

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting cotton clothing. Avoid applying lotions, perfumes, deodorant, or hair products before your session, as these can be flammable under high oxygen concentrations. Eat a light meal beforehand and stay hydrated. Our team will provide detailed preparation instructions when you schedule your appointment.

Are there any restrictions after treatment?

Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after their session. Some patients may feel slightly fatigued or lightheaded for a short time. We recommend staying hydrated and avoiding smoking, as tobacco use reduces the effectiveness of HBOT. Your care team will provide personalized post-treatment guidance.

Can I bring items into the chamber?

For safety reasons, electronics, lighters, and certain materials are not permitted inside the chamber. However, we provide entertainment options and blankets for your comfort. Our staff will let you know exactly what you can and cannot bring during your orientation visit.

Still Have Questions?

Our team is here to help. Book a free consultation to discuss your condition and learn how HBOT may benefit you.

Book a Free Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions About Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

Get answers to the most common questions about HBOT treatments, what to expect, costs, insurance, and more.

General Questions

What is hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a medical treatment where patients breathe 100% pure oxygen inside a pressurized chamber. The increased atmospheric pressure allows your lungs to absorb significantly more oxygen than normal, which is then carried throughout your body via the bloodstream. This oxygen-rich environment accelerates healing, reduces inflammation, and promotes the growth of new blood vessels.

What conditions does HBOT treat?

HBOT is FDA-approved for 14 conditions including diabetic foot ulcers, non-healing wounds, radiation injury, carbon monoxide poisoning, decompression sickness, and certain infections. It is also used off-label for conditions such as Long COVID, traumatic brain injury, stroke recovery, and sports injuries. Our physicians evaluate each patient individually to determine if HBOT is appropriate.

Is hyperbaric oxygen therapy safe?

Yes, HBOT is considered very safe when administered by trained medical professionals in a clinical setting. It has been used for decades with an excellent safety record. Minor side effects may include temporary ear pressure similar to flying and mild fatigue. Our board-certified physicians and trained technicians monitor every session to ensure patient safety.

How is HBOT different from breathing oxygen at home?

Home oxygen concentrators deliver oxygen at normal atmospheric pressure. Medical-grade HBOT delivers 100% oxygen at 2.0 to 3.0 ATA, dramatically increasing the amount of dissolved oxygen in your blood plasma and reaching tissues that red blood cells cannot access.

Treatment Experience

What happens during an HBOT session?

You will enter the hyperbaric chamber and lie down comfortably. The chamber is gradually pressurized over about 10 minutes. Once at treatment pressure, you simply relax and breathe normally for the duration of the session. Many patients read, watch videos, or nap. After treatment, the chamber is slowly depressurized before you exit.

How long does each treatment session last?

A typical HBOT session lasts approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours, including pressurization and depressurization time. The actual oxygen breathing time at treatment pressure is usually 60 to 90 minutes, depending on your specific treatment protocol.

How many sessions will I need?

The number of sessions varies based on your condition and treatment goals. Most protocols range from 20 to 40 sessions, typically scheduled 5 days per week. Wound care patients often require 30 to 40 sessions, while other conditions may respond in fewer treatments. Your physician will create a personalized treatment plan during your consultation.

Will I feel claustrophobic in the chamber?

Our monoplace chambers are transparent, allowing you to see outside at all times. The chambers are also equipped with communication systems so you can speak with our technicians throughout your session. Most patients adjust comfortably within the first session. If you have concerns about claustrophobia, please let us know during your consultation and we will work with you.

Cost and Insurance

Does insurance cover hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Yes, most major insurance plans, including Medicare, cover HBOT for FDA-approved indications. Coverage typically requires a physician referral and documentation of medical necessity. Our insurance specialists will verify your benefits and obtain prior authorization before treatment begins, so you know your coverage before your first session.

How much does HBOT cost without insurance?

Out-of-pocket costs vary depending on the number of sessions and treatment protocol. We offer competitive self-pay rates and flexible payment options. During your initial consultation, we will provide a detailed cost estimate based on your specific treatment plan. Contact us to discuss pricing and payment arrangements.

What if my condition is not FDA-approved for HBOT?

Many patients seek HBOT for off-label conditions such as Long COVID, concussions, or anti-aging. While insurance typically does not cover off-label use, we offer self-pay options to make treatment accessible. Our physicians will discuss the evidence supporting HBOT for your specific condition during your consultation.

Preparing for Treatment

How do I prepare for my HBOT session?

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting cotton clothing. Avoid applying lotions, perfumes, deodorant, or hair products before your session, as these can be flammable under high oxygen concentrations. Eat a light meal beforehand and stay hydrated. Our team will provide detailed preparation instructions when you schedule your appointment.

Are there any restrictions after treatment?

Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after their session. Some patients may feel slightly fatigued or lightheaded for a short time. We recommend staying hydrated and avoiding smoking, as tobacco use reduces the effectiveness of HBOT. Your care team will provide personalized post-treatment guidance.

Can I bring items into the chamber?

For safety reasons, electronics, lighters, and certain materials are not permitted inside the chamber. However, we provide entertainment options and blankets for your comfort. Our staff will let you know exactly what you can and cannot bring during your orientation visit.

Still Have Questions?

Our team is here to help. Book a free consultation to discuss your condition and learn how HBOT may benefit you.

Book a Free Consultation