Hyperbaric therapy is widely used to treat illnesses resulting from diving, although it is also effective in treating a variety of other conditions and illnesses. The procedure involves being enclosed in a small room or chamber, and then breathing almost pure oxygen. It’s a proven treatment that is older than you might think; the first chamber was designed and used in the mid 17th century, although it wasn’t widely used in the US until the 1940s. Today, it’s estimated that there are around 1,200 of these chambers located all over the country.
If you’re wondering does Medicare cover hyperbaric therapy, it does, although as with most medical questions, the answer isn’t quite as simple as that. The exact medical condition will determine whether hyperbaric therapy (HBOT) is covered, and that rule also applies to most commercial medical insurance companies, as well as Medicare. You will probably need to have any procedure authorized beforehand, and whether you are going through Medicare or another insurer, you may be responsible for a co-payment or deductible, typically 20 percent.
The good news is that there are many illnesses and conditions that are covered by Medicare and that require hyperbaric therapy to treat them, and many medical conditions can be effectively treated by HBOT. When it comes to Medicare, your part B insurance will cover the treatment, although as pointed out, there may be a deductible due. The exact rules and regulations concerning exactly how Medicare covers the costs vary between states, so it’s definitely recommended to make sure you understand the procedure, whether prior authorization is needed, and what if any costs you are responsible for. Medicare also stipulates that any hyperbaric treatment is considered medically necessary, so verification of that may be required.
As a general rule, Medicare will cover the cost of hyperbaric therapy for the condition that’s dreaded by many divers – decompression syndrome, caused by a rapid decrease in the surrounding pressure. Also covered are various other conditions such as chronic osteomyelitis, carbon monoxide or cyanide poisonings, injuries caused by crushes or a heavy pressure, and some diabetic wounds, as well as gas gangrene, a somewhat rare bacterial infection. Also covered under Medicare is a condition known as soft tissue radionecrosis, in which the body’s soft tissue isn’t able to regenerate normally.
It’s recommended to consult with your doctor as well as contacting Medicare, if you are thinking of undergoing hyperbaric therapy. Most people find the experience to be completely painless and somewhat relaxing, although it is possible to experience a slight discomfort in the ears because of the increased pressure. And spending a couple of hours in a hyperbaric chamber may cause some distress to those who are claustrophobic, although the chamber is roomier than many people think. It’s also possible to take part in a session for several people at once, using a larger chamber. After the session, most people are safely and comfortably able to carry on with their regular routine, although some feel hungry or tired afterwards.
