Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Massachusetts: How to Find a Provider

Massachusetts has one of the densest concentrations of academic medical centers in the country. That means HBOT is widely available across the state, particularly in and around Boston. Whether you’re in the metro area or western Massachusetts, there are established health systems to start with.

Where to Find HBOT in Massachusetts

Most patients start with their primary care doctor or specialist, who can refer to a hospital-based wound care or hyperbaric program. Here’s where HBOT is typically offered:

• Hospital-based wound care centers. These are the most common setting. Insurance generally covers FDA-approved conditions here.
• Academic medical centers. Massachusetts has several. They handle complex cases and often have dedicated hyperbaric programs.
• Standalone clinics. These exist but require more due diligence. Verify physician credentials and chamber specifications before starting.

The best starting point is the UHMS provider search tool at uhms.org/find-a-hyperbaric-facility.html. It lists accredited facilities only.

Major Areas in Massachusetts Where HBOT Is Available

Boston and Cambridge. The greater Boston area has the highest concentration of HBOT providers in the state. Mass General Brigham, which includes Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital, operates a major academic health system with wound care programs across multiple locations. Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Boston Medical Center are additional large academic hospitals in the city.

Worcester. UMass Memorial Health is the primary academic health system in central Massachusetts. Their network includes wound care programs that may offer HBOT.

Springfield and Western Massachusetts. The Springfield metro is more limited, but large regional hospital systems serve the area. Use the UHMS directory to find the nearest accredited facility.

Lowell and the Merrimack Valley. Several community hospitals in the area are part of larger health networks. Check with Mass General Brigham affiliates and regional systems serving the north of Boston.

Quincy and South Shore. Multiple hospitals south of Boston serve this corridor. Many are affiliated with major Boston health systems.

What to Ask a Potential Provider

Before committing to a program, ask these five questions:

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

Read our guide to questions to ask a provider for more detail on what each answer should tell you.

Insurance Coverage for HBOT in Massachusetts

Medicare Part B covers HBOT for 14 FDA-approved conditions at hospital outpatient facilities. Rates change annually, so verify current amounts with your facility’s billing team. Our cost guide has current session cost estimates.

MassHealth, Massachusetts Medicaid, may cover HBOT for qualifying patients. Coverage varies by condition and enrollment type. Contact MassHealth directly or ask the facility’s billing team to check your eligibility.

Major commercial insurers active in Massachusetts include Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Tufts Health Plan, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, Aetna, and UnitedHealthcare. These plans generally follow Medicare criteria, meaning they may cover FDA-approved indications and won’t cover off-label uses. Prior authorization is almost always required.

Off-label uses, such as TBI, long COVID, or autism, are not covered by any insurance plan. See our insurance guide for a full breakdown of what is and isn’t covered.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find hyperbaric oxygen therapy in Massachusetts?

The best starting point is the UHMS provider search at uhms.org. Most Massachusetts hospital systems with wound care centers offer HBOT. Mass General Brigham, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston Medical Center, and UMass Memorial Health all operate large hospital networks where HBOT may be available.

Does Medicare cover HBOT in Massachusetts?

Yes. Medicare Part B covers HBOT for 14 FDA-approved conditions when treatment is provided at a hospital outpatient facility. Coverage rules are the same in Massachusetts as in every other state. Off-label uses are not covered. Rates change annually, so verify current reimbursement with your facility’s billing team.

Do Boston hospitals offer hyperbaric oxygen therapy?

Yes. Boston is home to some of the largest academic medical centers in the country. Hospitals within the Mass General Brigham system, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Boston Medical Center all operate major wound care programs where HBOT is commonly offered for FDA-approved conditions.

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.