Here, we dive into hyperbaric oxygen therapy costs per session and the costs of purchasing a hyperbaric chamber.
How much does hyperbaric oxygen therapy cost?
First, let's distinguish between mild and hard-sided oxygen therapy pressures. The differences in pressures result in significant differences in costs.
- Mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy is 1.3 ATA – 1.5 ATA
- Hard-sided hyperbaric oxygen therapy is Above 1.5 ATA
Mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy can range from $60 - $130 a session, depending on the location in the US. Costs also vary depending on whether you purchase a single oxygen therapy session or a package. Most clinics offer packages that lower the price per session. Purchasing a bundle is anticipated as it typically takes several oxygen therapy sessions to experience the benefits, and doctors will prescribe 40 or 80 sessions, especially for something chronic.
A doctor must screen the patient before the first hyperbaric oxygen therapy session.
There may be a charge for the doctor's time to make sure you are a safe, viable candidate for hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy has lower health risks for patients, but it is always best to consult your doctor.
Here is an example of some of the costs of mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy in clinics that we have worked with across the US so you can gauge the cost.
- Evergreen Center for Integrative Medicine Seattle, Washington - $100 for a 60-minute session
- Glow Wellness Center East Northpoint, New York - $120 for a 60-minute session
- Hbot Clinic in Chandler, Arizona - $105 for a 60-minute session
Hard-sided Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy
Hard-sided Hyperbaric chambers cost between $250 and $600 per oxygen therapy session. They are typically 2.0+ ATA and are mainly found in major hospitals. These higher pressures involve a little more risk than a mild or portable hyperbaric chamber.
Insurance Coverage
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions may be covered by insurance for certain FDA-approved conditions. However, coverage and out-of-pocket costs can vary significantly depending on your insurance plan. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to determine your specific coverage.
How much is a hyperbaric chamber?
Personal, also known as Mild Hyperbaric Chambers
Personal hyperbaric chambers cost anywhere from $4,995 to $20,000, depending on the size, brand, and added features you choose to make your experience more comfortable. The higher cost doesn't necessarily mean more benefits, as the standard portable or mild hyperbaric chambers pressures are 1.3 ATA.
Costs vary depending on whether you want to add air conditioning, more windows to see out, a chair, or other features that may enhance your comfort level.
The most economical hyperbaric chamber we have found is the
Newtowne Hyperbarics C4-27 Hyperbaric Chamber, which starts at $4,495.
This portable hyperbaric chamber price does not include an oxygen concentrator, which most patients typically add supplemental oxygen as it increases the benefits of oxygen therapy. The Drive DeVilbiss 10-liter oxygen concentrator is a popular choice, costing $1450.
When a patient has to do longer-term oxygen therapy sessions, having a personal hyperbaric chamber in one's home can be much more beneficial. It may save money in the long term and be easier to access when it is in one's home.
Hard-Sided Hyperbaric Chambers
Hard-sided hyperbaric chambers start at $44,900 and go up to $80,000. Again, this depends on the size, brand, warranty, and other features.
There are also multi-place hyperbaric chambers. These hyperbaric chambers hold multiple people and are common in major hospitals.
A general rule of thumb with all hyperbaric chambers and why the cost is more is:
Size: Hyperbaric chambers that can accommodate more people are more expensive
Features: Some hyperbaric chambers have features like multiple windows, higher pressures, air cooling, chairs, wheelchair access, or special configurations, which increase costs
New versus used: Used hyperbaric chambers can be cheaper than new ones, but it can be difficult to test them before purchasing them
Insurance Coverage
Personal hyperbaric chambers for home use are not typically covered by insurance, but some HSAs allow this as a medical expense. Check with your insurance provider to determine your specific coverage.
In conclusion, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be a valuable treatment for many conditions. However, the cost can be a significant factor to consider. This article has provided an overview of the expenses associated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy, including clinic sessions, personal hyperbaric chambers, and hard-sided hyperbaric chambers. Understanding these costs lets you decide whether hyperbaric oxygen therapy is right for you.
Additional Considerations
Beyond the cost, there are other factors to consider when deciding about hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Talk to your doctor about the potential benefits and risks of this treatment and whether it is appropriate for your specific condition. If you do not have a doctor who is trained in hyperbaric oxygen therapy, reach out to Healing The Hyperbaric Way, and we will connect you to a telemedicine doctor who can provide a prescription for you to get started or a screening to take to your doctor to discuss your healthcare needs.
With careful planning and consideration, hyperbaric oxygen therapy can be a safe and life-changing treatment!