You can get the UVB tubes that will fit in it, but if I remember correctly, the 55 gal is 4 feet long, right? That's a long uvb, and it might cost a lot more than a compact fluorescent. The only thing is that usually the aquarium hoods that are sold with the tank have a layer of glass between the tank and the light, and uvb can't pass through. On my old tank, you could remove the piece of glass.
However, I think your best option is just to not use the hood (or at least not the light, if it's separate from the hood).
It's similar to this type of hood, right?
What I did with mine was removed the light and piece of glass under the light, and shone the uvb and heat lights onto the basking area through the gap. This way it gives you a bit of escape-proofed-ness.