Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in San Antonio, TX

San Antonio is one of the few U.S. cities with a substantial military medical infrastructure alongside a full civilian hospital market. That combination makes it a notable location for HBOT, particularly for active duty military, retired service members, and veterans who may have access to care through channels not available elsewhere in Texas.

Finding HBOT Providers in San Antonio

On the civilian side, UT Health San Antonio, Christus Health, and Baptist Health System all operate hospital campuses in the area with wound care programs. If your doctor has recommended HBOT for a diagnosed condition, a referral to a wound care center affiliated with one of these systems is the right starting point.

The military presence in San Antonio is significant. Joint Base San Antonio — which includes Lackland Air Force Base, Fort Sam Houston, and Randolph Air Force Base — is one of the largest military installations in the country. Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) at Fort Sam Houston is a major military hospital and has historically maintained hyperbaric capabilities. Active duty service members, military retirees, and TRICARE-covered dependents should contact BAMC or their military primary care manager to understand what HBOT services are available to them.

Veterans in San Antonio may be able to access HBOT through the South Texas Veterans Health Care System, which is part of the VA network. The VA covers HBOT for certain FDA-approved conditions. Eligibility and coverage depend on service-connected disability status and diagnosis. Contact the VA system directly for current information — don’t rely on secondhand accounts of what the VA will or won’t cover, as policies change.

For civilian patients, the UHMS provider directory is the most reliable way to find accredited HBOT programs in San Antonio. Ask your primary care doctor or specialist for a referral if you’re not sure where to start.

Insurance and Medicare Coverage in San Antonio

Medicare Part B may cover HBOT in San Antonio for FDA-approved indications. Covered conditions include diabetic foot ulcers that haven’t healed after 30 days of standard wound care, chronic refractory osteomyelitis, osteoradionecrosis, soft tissue radionecrosis, arterial insufficiency ulcers, and several other diagnoses. You need a physician order, and treatment must occur at a Medicare-certified facility.

Medicare reimbursement rates change each year. Confirm current amounts with your facility’s billing team.

TRICARE covers HBOT for active duty military and eligible dependents for FDA-approved conditions. Coverage rules can differ from Medicare — ask your military primary care manager or TRICARE representative for specifics on your plan.

Texas Medicaid coverage for HBOT varies by eligibility and diagnosis. Contact your treating facility to confirm whether they accept Texas Medicaid and what the prior authorization process involves.

Commercial insurers in San Antonio — including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Aetna, UnitedHealthcare, and others — generally follow Medicare guidelines. Prior authorization is standard. Your care team should manage this before your first session.

Off-label HBOT uses aren’t covered by Medicare, TRICARE, or commercial insurance. See our insurance guide for full coverage details and estimated out-of-pocket costs.

What to Expect at Your First Session

At your first clinical HBOT session, you’ll go through a medical evaluation before entering the chamber. The care team reviews your diagnosis, medical history, and any contraindications. The session itself runs about 90 to 120 minutes in a pressurized chamber while breathing 100% oxygen. Mild ear pressure during pressurization is normal — most patients adjust quickly.

Our first session guide has a full walkthrough of the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do military members access HBOT at BAMC in San Antonio? Active duty service members should contact their unit’s medical support or their military primary care manager. Eligibility for HBOT at BAMC depends on your duty status, diagnosis, and referral through the military healthcare system. Retired military and TRICARE-covered dependents should ask their primary care manager about referral options.

Can I get HBOT in San Antonio for a non-wound-related condition? Hospital-based HBOT programs primarily treat FDA-approved conditions — wound care, radiation injuries, and bone infections. Off-label uses aren’t typically available through hospital programs. Standalone wellness clinics may offer mild HBOT, but those aren’t covered by insurance and aren’t appropriate for treating active medical conditions.

How do I find out if my condition qualifies for HBOT coverage? Ask your doctor to review the FDA-approved indications list. Your care team can also contact your insurer directly to verify coverage before you start treatment. Pre-authorization protects you from surprise bills.

See more providers in Texas: Texas HBOT Providers

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.