Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fort Lauderdale sits at the center of one of Florida’s most active diving communities. Broward County’s proximity to the Florida Keys reef system means dive-related injuries are a regular part of the local medical picture. The area also has a large retiree and diabetic population, making wound care HBOT a common need.

Finding HBOT Providers in Fort Lauderdale

Broward Health and Cleveland Clinic Florida are the two major health systems serving the Fort Lauderdale metro. Cleveland Clinic Florida, based in Weston, is an affiliate of the Cleveland Clinic health system and operates specialty programs across Broward and Palm Beach counties.

Fort Lauderdale’s location is an advantage. Miami’s academic medical centers are less than an hour south, which gives Broward County patients access to a wider network of hospital-based hyperbaric programs than a city of comparable size might otherwise have.

To find a verified, accredited provider, use the UHMS directory at uhms.org. That’s the most reliable source for confirming that a facility meets professional standards. Your referring physician can also point you to a program within your insurance network.

For help knowing what questions to ask when you contact a center, read our guide to choosing a hyperbaric clinic.

Insurance and Medicare Coverage in Fort Lauderdale

Medicare Part B may cover HBOT for 14 FDA-approved conditions. In Fort Lauderdale’s patient population, common covered indications include diabetic foot ulcers that haven’t responded to standard wound care, chronic refractory osteomyelitis, radiation tissue damage, and compromised skin grafts and flaps.

Decompression sickness from diving is also a covered indication. If a covered dive emergency occurs and treatment is medically necessary, Medicare and most commercial insurers may cover it. Coverage depends on documentation and the specific plan.

Medicare reimbursement rates change each year. Confirm current amounts with your facility before starting a treatment course. Florida Medicaid coverage varies by plan. Commercial insurers typically require prior authorization for FDA-approved indications and won’t cover off-label uses.

Our insurance guide and cost guide break this down further.

What to Expect at Your First Session

Hospital-based HBOT starts with a physician evaluation. Before any treatment, your hyperbaric doctor reviews your condition, medical history, and medications. That first appointment is important. Some health conditions and medications affect whether HBOT is safe or appropriate.

Sessions inside the chamber run 90 minutes to two hours, typically at 2.0 to 2.4 atmospheres. Most medical treatment courses are 20 to 40 sessions, five days a week. You can drive yourself and carry on normal activities before and after.

For dive-related emergencies, the process is different. Decompression sickness requires immediate treatment, not a scheduled evaluation. Call 911 and DAN (1-919-684-9111) first. The DAN emergency line operates around the clock.

Our first session guide covers the standard process for non-emergency HBOT.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the DAN emergency number for diving accidents near Fort Lauderdale?

Call DAN at 1-919-684-9111 any time, day or night, for diving emergencies. They can help locate the nearest available hyperbaric chamber and advise on immediate steps. Always call 911 first.

Can Fort Lauderdale patients access hyperbaric centers in Miami?

Yes. Miami is about 30 miles south of Fort Lauderdale, and many Broward County patients travel to Miami for specialty care. If a Miami hospital-based center is in your insurance network, a referral there is a reasonable option.

How does Cleveland Clinic Florida compare to Broward Health for HBOT?

Both are established health systems. The right choice depends on your insurance network, location, and the specific condition being treated. Verify that either facility has an active hyperbaric program with a board-certified hyperbaric physician. The UHMS directory is the best place to confirm current accreditation.

See more providers in Florida: /providers/florida/

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.