All you need to know about portable oxygen concentrators

Oxygen is essential for the human body to function. Oxygen therapy allows your body to receive life-saving air over long periods of time. Conditions that may require the use of an oxygen device include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, and pulmonary hypertension. 

If you need oxygen on the go, portable oxygen can be a good option. Portable oxygen systems are small, lightweight devices that can be brought along during travel, long walks, social events, and more. However, these concentrators can be costly, with new ones starting at about $600. 

 

What is portable oxygen?

Portable oxygen can be delivered through a lightweight and battery-operated mobile device known as a portable oxygen concentrator. These devices provide users with supplemental oxygen. Unlike portable oxygen tanks, concentrators use electrical pumps to extract oxygen from the air. This allows the devices to deliver a continuous and unlimited supply of oxygen. 

All oxygen concentrators approved or cleared by the FDA to be sold or used in the U.S. require a prescription. You may have seen advertisements for portable oxygen concentrators that don’t require a prescription, but they may not meet your oxygen needs. 

Consult with your healthcare providers about the best portable oxygen device for you. 

Portable oxygen concentrators aren’t the only way to receive supplemental air on the go. There are other types of oxygen systems and equipment. The main options are: 

• Portable oxygen concentrators

• Liquid oxygen systems

• Compressed gas systems

Work with your healthcare provider to get the right oxygen equipment to fit your lifestyle and activities.

How much do portable oxygen concentrators cost?

Several factors determine the cost of a portable oxygen concentrator, such as:

• Type of system

• Battery life

• Device weight

• Oxygen output 

• Portability

• Device accessories

• Warranty

Your cost can also vary depending on whether you buy a new portable oxygen concentrator, purchase a used one, or rent your equipment.

Your costs also include other expenses to keep the concentrator running, such as:

• Electricity to power the device

• Electricity to recharge the battery

• Regular maintenance

• Extra batteries or backup power during outages

How can I make my portable oxygen concentrator more affordable?

If you’re paying out of pocket for a portable oxygen device, keep in mind that new concentrators range from about $600 to $4,000. The most affordable options would be lower-cost refurbished concentrator from a reputable supplier or low-cost new ones, which may last longer.

 

Is portable oxygen covered by insurance?

Portable oxygen concentrators are considered durable medical equipment (DME) by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private health insurance plans. If you have original Medicare, Part B will cover the costs of oxygen equipment and accessories prescribed by your doctor for home use. 

Original Medicare will also cover the cost for:

• Tubing or a mouthpiece

• Oxygen contents

• Device repairs

• Device servicing

• Device maintenance

If you own your equipment, Medicare Part B will cover the cost of oxygen and supplies if your need for supplemental oxygen is deemed medically necessary.

Medicare coverage for oxygen equipment and accessories lasts for 5 years, which is deemed a reasonable lifetime for the devices by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). After meeting your deductible, you will be responsible for 20% of the Medicare-approved amount of your oxygen costs for up to 36 months or 3 years. After that, your oxygen supplier must continue to provide the rental device and/or associated services for up to 2 more years. If you have an ongoing need beyond 5 years, you can sign up for replacement equipment and/or supplies and restart the 36-month payment period.

Medicare Advantage plans provide similar coverage for portable oxygen and may offer benefits beyond what original Medicare offers. 

Medicaid coverage for portable oxygen concentrators varies from state to state. Many state Medicaid programs will cover up to 100% of the cost of a portable oxygen concentrator if the treatment is considered medically necessary and fits the state’s DME definition. For coverage amount and requirements, contact your state Medicaid agency.  

Private insurance coverage varies but portable oxygen is a likely benefit. For instance, Aetna offers coverage for medically necessary portable oxygen concentrators for people who meet certain criteria.

How do I choose a portable oxygen concentrator that fits my budget?

Finding a portable oxygen concentrator that fits your budget depends on the supplemental air you need. If you have Medicare or private health insurance, many of your expenses are typically covered.

Without insurance, you may want to select a more affordable option, such as a pre-owned or rental device. If you are paying out of pocket for your device, consider buying a refurbished oxygen concentrator from a reputable supplier.

What is the lifespan of a portable oxygen device?

The typical lifespan of a portable oxygen concentrator is between 4 and 7 years. For all oxygen equipment, the CMS considers 5 years a reasonable lifespan.

How long your device lasts depends on several factors, such as:

• Whether it was purchased new or used (considered 300 hours or more of run time)

• Frequency of use

• Manufacturer and device type

• Upkeep, such as timely service, maintenance, and cleaning

• Damage from water, humidity, and extreme temperatures

How often should you have a portable oxygen concentrator serviced?

Generally, portable oxygen concentrators should be serviced once a year by a professional maintenance technician. Regular checks ensure your device runs properly and may help the device last longer.

In addition to having your concentrator serviced on schedule, you can help extend its life by performing regular home maintenance, such as:

• Changing the air inlet filter, according to the user manual instructions

• Keeping the outside of your device clean

• Changing the nasal cannula and tubing, according to the user manual instructions

• Draining the battery quarterly and fully recharging the power source

• Checking tube connections regularly for leaks