Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Maine: How to Find a Provider

Maine is a large, rural state with a relatively small population. HBOT access is concentrated in Portland, with Bangor serving as the northern hub. Outside these two cities, options are limited. Many Maine patients — particularly those in Aroostook County and the western mountains — face long drives for medical-grade HBOT.

Where to Find HBOT in Maine

Maine Medical Center in Portland is the state’s largest and most advanced hospital. As the primary academic hospital in Maine, it handles complex cases and serves as the main referral destination for HBOT across the state. MaineHealth, the system that includes Maine Medical Center, operates across much of southern Maine.

Northern Light Health in Bangor is the major health system serving central and northern Maine. Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center in Bangor is the hub for that system. HBOT availability at Northern Light facilities should be confirmed directly, but it’s the most practical option for patients in Penobscot County and surrounding areas.

Southern Maine has the best access overall. Portland and the surrounding Cumberland County region are within range of Maine Medical Center and affiliated facilities. Patients in York County near the New Hampshire border also have access to Portsmouth, NH area providers if needed.

Rural Maine — including Washington County on the coast, Aroostook County, and the western Oxford Hills — is largely without local HBOT access. The distances involved are real. Caribou to Portland is nearly four hours. Patients in these areas should discuss the logistics with their physician before committing to a treatment course.

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

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

Major Areas in Maine Where HBOT Is Available

Portland is the primary hub. Maine Medical Center is the state’s top referral destination for complex HBOT cases, and it serves patients from across Maine. Southern Maine residents have the best access in the state.

Bangor is the hub for central and northern Maine. Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center serves a large geographic area. Bangor is a more practical option than Portland for patients in Penobscot, Piscataquis, Hancock, and Washington counties.

Augusta is the state capital and has MaineGeneral Medical Center. HBOT availability should be confirmed directly before assuming it’s offered locally.

Rural Maine (Aroostook County, Oxford County, Washington County) has essentially no local HBOT access. Expect a referral to Portland or Bangor depending on your location.

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 from rural Maine for a multi-week HBOT course, ask your insurer whether any lodging benefit or out-of-area care assistance applies. Some plans include this for medically necessary travel.

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

Insurance Coverage for HBOT in Maine

Coverage for HBOT in Maine follows national standards.

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

MaineCare (Maine Medicaid) coverage for HBOT varies by condition. Contact the facility’s billing department to confirm coverage before scheduling.

Commercial insurers like Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Maine, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, 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 Maine 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 Maine?

The UHMS maintains a searchable provider directory at uhms.org. Search by your zip code. Maine Medical Center in Portland is Maine’s primary academic hospital and the best starting point for HBOT in the state. Most rural Maine patients will need to travel to Portland or Bangor for medical-grade hyperbaric treatment.

Does Medicare cover HBOT in Maine?

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

Does Maine Medicaid (MaineCare) cover hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

MaineCare coverage for HBOT varies by condition. 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 whether your specific MaineCare plan covers HBOT and what prior authorization is required.

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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.