Back in 2011, our CEO, Mike Comer, wrote a blog post about whether to rent or buy a hyperbaric chamber for an outpatient wound care program, and that post continues to generate interest to this day.
Since that time, our industry has experienced many changes, but the interest and need for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) remain strong. In 2018, an audit by the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) led to a decrease in HBOT volumes and an increase in the number of used hyperbaric chambers available for sale. As a result, existing centers looking to add HBOT to their service lines now have a very affordable purchasing option. The OIG action shouldn’t dissuade a wound center from adding HBOT, as it remains a key component of any advanced wound care program. However, it’s more important than ever to be cognizant of compliance and fastidious with all documentation. For many chronic wound patients, hyperbaric oxygen therapy offers a lifeline—helping them avoid lower limb amputation and reducing their risk of increased mortality.
How Much Does a Hyperbaric Chamber Cost?
Once our partners decide to add a hyperbaric chamber to their wound care program, they often ask whether to rent or buy. If budget is a concern, purchasing a used chamber can be a cost-effective solution. Used chambers, typically in excellent working condition, cost about half the price of a new one, which can exceed $100,000. Given the importance of capital budget dollars, this savings could be the key to developing a full-service wound center, including hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT). Hyperbaric Clearing House is a great resource for finding used chambers. With a 15-year depreciable lifespan and mostly pneumatic components, these machines require minimal part replacements. However, owners should budget at least $2,000 annually for maintenance per chamber. While the fundamentals of ownership remain the same, opting for a used chamber can significantly reduce costs.
For further insights, check out our CEO Mike Comer’s original blog post, “Hyperbaric Chambers: Should You Buy Your Own?” While the post is a bit dated, it remains a valuable resource for those expanding an existing wound care program or launching a new one. If you need guidance on purchasing a hyperbaric chamber or building a wound care program from the ground up, give us a call at 888-484-3922.
For over 20 years WCA has supported a national network of wound centers focused on reducing costs and improving patient outcomes. WCA empowers these centers by seamlessly transitioning from outsourced management to in-house support, leveraging Luvo – the industry's most powerful business intelligence platform. How can WCA support you?
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