Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Delaware: How to Find a Provider

Delaware is the second-smallest state in the country. That means fewer local HBOT options, but also that no one in Delaware lives far from a major medical center. Wilmington is the state’s primary medical hub, and Philadelphia is a short drive for anyone in northern Delaware who needs a larger academic center.

Where to Find HBOT in Delaware

ChristianaCare Health System (formerly Christiana Care) in Wilmington is Delaware’s largest health system and the most likely location for hospital-based HBOT in the state. As the primary academic medical center, ChristianaCare handles complex cases and serves the entire state population.

Hospital-based wound care centers within ChristianaCare treat the standard set of FDA-approved conditions — diabetic foot ulcers, radiation tissue injury, and chronic non-healing wounds. These programs coordinate with referring physicians and manage insurance authorization directly.

Southern Delaware is more rural. Patients in Kent and Sussex counties may need to travel north to Wilmington for HBOT, or look at facilities across the border in Maryland.

Philadelphia is a realistic option for Delaware patients who need specialist-level care. Several major Philadelphia-area hospital systems — including Temple University Hospital, Penn Medicine, and Jefferson Health — operate hyperbaric programs and regularly treat patients from Delaware.

Wellness clinics offering mild HBOT may exist in the Wilmington and Dover areas. These aren’t equivalent to medical-grade hospital programs. Always confirm chamber pressure (2.0 ATA or higher) and physician oversight before booking 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 Delaware and nearby states.

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

Major Areas in Delaware Where HBOT Is Available

Wilmington is the primary hub. ChristianaCare and the surrounding northern Delaware hospital network are the strongest option for medical-grade HBOT in the state.

Dover is Delaware’s capital and serves central Delaware. Hospital facilities here may have wound care programs, but HBOT availability should be confirmed directly with specific facilities.

Sussex County (Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, Seaford area) is the most rural and southernmost part of the state. Residents here may need to travel to Wilmington or look at facilities in Salisbury, Maryland or elsewhere on the Delmarva Peninsula.

Philadelphia is the natural referral destination for complex cases. The city’s major academic medical centers are 30-45 minutes from Wilmington and routinely serve Delaware patients.

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 considering a Philadelphia-area provider, verify that your Delaware insurance covers out-of-state care before your first appointment. Most plans do, but prior authorization processes may differ.

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

Insurance Coverage for HBOT in Delaware

Coverage for HBOT in Delaware follows national standards.

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

Delaware Medicaid (DMAP) coverage for HBOT varies by condition and managed care plan. Contact the facility’s billing department to confirm coverage before scheduling.

Commercial insurers like Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare 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 Delaware 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 Delaware?

The UHMS maintains a searchable provider directory at uhms.org. Search by your zip code. ChristianaCare Health System in Wilmington is Delaware’s primary academic medical center and the best starting point for HBOT in the state. Delaware’s small size and proximity to Philadelphia also make Pennsylvania-based providers a realistic option for complex cases.

Does Medicare cover HBOT in Delaware?

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

Does Delaware Medicaid cover hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Delaware Medicaid (DMAP) coverage for HBOT varies by condition and managed care plan. Coverage is most likely for FDA-approved indications such as diabetic foot ulcers and chronic non-healing wounds. Contact the facility’s billing department before scheduling to confirm your specific plan’s coverage.

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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.