Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Alaska: How to Find a Provider

HBOT availability in Alaska is concentrated almost entirely in Anchorage. The state’s geography and small population outside the Anchorage metro mean that most Alaskans needing medical-grade hyperbaric treatment will need to travel. For patients in remote communities, that may mean a trip to Anchorage — or in complex cases, to Seattle or another Pacific Northwest medical center.

Where to Find HBOT in Alaska

Hospital-based programs in Anchorage are the primary source of medical-grade HBOT in the state. Major hospital systems in Anchorage serve the entire Alaska population and handle referrals from rural areas, tribal health programs, and military facilities.

Alaska also has a significant military and diving population. Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) in Anchorage serves active-duty personnel. Military beneficiaries should contact their MTF (Military Treatment Facility) to confirm HBOT availability and referral requirements.

Commercial diving is a real part of Alaska’s economy, particularly in the fishing and oil industries. Diving-related injuries (decompression sickness, arterial gas embolism) require emergency HBOT. Divers Alert Network (DAN) maintains a 24-hour emergency line at 1-919-684-9111 and can help locate the nearest operational hyperbaric chamber for emergencies.

Standalone wellness clinics offering mild HBOT are uncommon in Alaska. If you do encounter one, verify it’s running a medical-grade monoplace or multiplace chamber before scheduling for a diagnosed medical condition.

The best starting point: use the UHMS (Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society) provider search at uhms.org. It lists accredited facilities in Alaska.

Browse our full provider directory for more guidance on what to look for.

Major Areas in Alaska Where HBOT Is Available

Anchorage is the state’s only significant hub for medical-grade HBOT. The major hospital systems here serve patients from across the state. If you’re outside Anchorage, a referral to an Anchorage facility is the expected pathway.

Fairbanks has hospital facilities but HBOT availability is limited. Confirm with specific facilities before making the trip from surrounding areas.

Rural and remote Alaska has essentially no local HBOT access. Alaska Medicaid has a medical travel program (Medicaid Travel) that may help cover transportation and lodging when medically necessary treatment isn’t available within a reasonable distance. Ask your provider or Alaska Medicaid about this program.

Seattle, Washington is a realistic option for complex cases. Several major Seattle-area hospital systems have established hyperbaric programs and regularly treat Alaska patients who travel south for care.

What to Ask a Potential Provider

Before you book, ask every provider these questions.

• Is this a medical-grade hyperbaric chamber (2.0 ATA or higher)?
• Is there a board-certified or credentialed hyperbaric physician on staff?
• Is my condition FDA-approved for HBOT?
• Does your facility work with my insurance for prior authorization?
• Is the facility UHMS-accredited?

If you’re traveling to Anchorage from a remote area, ask about the expected number of treatment sessions upfront. HBOT typically requires 20-40 sessions, and planning for a multi-week stay in Anchorage is realistic.

Read our guide to your first HBOT session before you go.

Insurance Coverage for HBOT in Alaska

Coverage for HBOT in Alaska follows national standards.

Medicare Part B covers HBOT for 14 FDA-approved conditions at hospital outpatient facilities. This applies in Alaska just as it does in every other state.

Alaska Medicaid coverage for HBOT varies by condition and plan. Alaska Medicaid also operates a medical travel assistance program for patients who must leave their community for care. Contact the facility’s billing department to confirm coverage before scheduling.

Commercial insurers like Premera Blue Cross, Moda Health, and Aetna generally follow Medicare coverage criteria. Prior authorization is almost always required.

Off-label uses (including TBI, anti-aging, athletic recovery, and autism) are not covered by any insurance in Alaska or anywhere else.

Check our full guide: Does Insurance Cover HBOT?

Want to know what treatment costs? See our HBOT cost guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find hyperbaric oxygen therapy in Alaska?

The UHMS maintains a searchable provider directory at uhms.org. Search by your zip code. Anchorage is the primary hub for medical-grade HBOT in Alaska. Patients in remote areas often need to travel to Anchorage or, in complex cases, to Seattle for treatment.

Does Medicare cover HBOT in Alaska?

Yes. Medicare coverage rules are federal and apply equally in all states, including Alaska. Medicare Part B covers HBOT for 14 FDA-approved conditions at hospital outpatient facilities. See our insurance guide for full details.

Does Alaska Medicaid cover hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Alaska Medicaid may cover HBOT for FDA-approved conditions depending on your plan and the treating facility. Alaska Medicaid also has a medical travel program that may help cover transportation costs when treatment isn’t available locally. Contact the facility’s billing department and Alaska Medicaid directly to confirm coverage before scheduling.

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Medical Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before pursuing any medical treatment.