Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy in Virginia: How to Find a Provider

Virginia has major HBOT programs spread across the state, from Hampton Roads on the coast to Northern Virginia near Washington DC. Most large health systems in the state operate wound care centers where HBOT is available for FDA-approved conditions.

Where to Find HBOT in Virginia

There are three main types of providers to look for:

• Hospital-based wound care centers. The most common setting. Insurance is most likely to cover treatment here for FDA-approved conditions.
• Academic medical centers. VCU Health in Richmond and UVA Health in Charlottesville are the two major academic systems in the state.
• Standalone clinics. These exist in Virginia. Check credentials carefully. Ask whether a credentialed hyperbaric physician is on staff.

Start your search with the UHMS provider directory at uhms.org/find-a-hyperbaric-facility.html. It shows accredited facilities only.

Major Areas in Virginia Where HBOT Is Available

Hampton Roads (Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake). Sentara Health is the dominant health system in this region with multiple hospitals and outpatient facilities throughout the area. Their wound care programs serve a large regional population.

Richmond. VCU Health is Richmond’s primary academic medical center and handles complex wound care cases. The Richmond metro also has community hospitals within the larger Bon Secours Mercy Health and HCA Virginia networks.

Northern Virginia (Arlington, Alexandria, Falls Church). Inova Health System serves this region directly. Because Northern Virginia is part of the DC metro, some patients also choose to access providers in Washington DC or Maryland depending on their insurance network and proximity.

Charlottesville. UVA Health is the primary academic medical center for central Virginia. It serves a large geographic area including patients from rural parts of the state.

Roanoke and Southwest Virginia. Carilion Clinic is the dominant health system in this part of the state and operates a regional network with wound care programs.

What to Ask a Potential Provider

Before starting treatment, ask each facility these 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?

Our guide to questions to ask a provider explains what to listen for in each answer.

Insurance Coverage for HBOT in Virginia

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

Virginia Medicaid may cover HBOT for eligible patients with qualifying conditions. Coverage varies. Ask the facility’s billing coordinator to check your Medicaid status before scheduling.

Major commercial insurers in Virginia include Anthem, which has a large presence in the state, plus Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield. These plans generally follow Medicare criteria for HBOT. That means they’ll consider coverage for FDA-approved indications and won’t cover off-label uses. Prior authorization is almost always required.

Off-label conditions are not covered by any insurer. See our insurance guide for a complete breakdown.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find hyperbaric oxygen therapy in Virginia?

Use the UHMS provider search at uhms.org to find accredited facilities in Virginia. Major health systems with wound care programs across the state include Sentara Health, VCU Health, Inova Health System, Carilion Clinic, and UVA Health.

Does Medicare cover HBOT in Virginia?

Yes. Medicare Part B covers HBOT for 14 FDA-approved conditions at hospital outpatient facilities. Coverage rules are federal and apply the same way in Virginia as in every other state. Off-label uses are not covered. Rates change annually, so verify current amounts with your facility’s billing team.

Can Northern Virginia residents access HBOT providers in Washington DC or Maryland?

Yes. Northern Virginia is part of the DC metro area, and many residents choose providers in DC or Maryland depending on location and insurance network. Inova Health System serves Northern Virginia directly. MedStar Health and major DC hospitals are accessible for many NoVA residents.

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.