Portable Oxygen Concentrator Financial Assistance – Overview
Portable oxygen concentrator financial assistance can help many Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) sufferers improve their quality of life. While already struggling with COPD, carrying heavy oxygen tanks along becomes difficult.
Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) are much lighter and smaller than can be carried in a shoulder bag.
Though oxygen tanks are standard care, POC is a luxury item usually not covered under medical insurance.
However, this does not mean you must settle with those clumsy oxygen tanks for a lifetime. There are various options available to receive coverage for POC.
Portable Oxygen Concentrator Financial Assistance – Make your Breathing Easier
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is considered the third leading cause of death in the United States.
Approximately 11 million people have been diagnosed with COPD, causing severe long-term disability. The number of people dying from COPD is increasing, and till now, there is no cure.
COPD patients use multiple inhaler medications, such as Combivent, Advair, and Spiriva. Additionally, they require daily maintenance treatments and emergency rescue inhalers.
POC is a small machine that makes oxygen, reducing the excess strain on the heart and shortness of breath. COPD patients can experience better mental clarity and stay active for the entire day with the help of POC.
Benefits of Portable Oxygen Concentrators
Portable Oxygen Concentrators receive air, purify it, and then distribute it. The air comes out of the portable concentrator as pure oxygen with few traces of nitrogen.
These devices assist many people in maintaining an active and on-the-go lifestyle.
- Better Sleep – POC allows getting a good night’s sleep for those who need help breathing.
- Mobility – Users can enjoy car rides, walk, run errands, and so much more when leveraging a POC.
- Improved Stamina – POC provides the right amount of oxygen that enables the patients to work continuously without taking breaks.
- Mental Alertness – An inappropriate amount of oxygen can cause mental fogginess. Supplemental oxygen through a POC improves the brain’s and other organs’ health.
- Independent Lifestyle – The right amount of oxygen helps a patient to lead an independent life.
The cost of POC without health insurance can fall anywhere between $2,500 to $4,000. It can also be rented for $275 a week. Additionally, there are separate charges for nasal cannulas, filters, tubing, and other consumable accessories.
The machines also require an AC adapter or a battery that adds to the electric bill. Portable Oxygen Concentrator financial assistance can help pay the equipment’s cost.
Portable Oxygen Concentrator Financial Assistance – Where to Apply?
A POC can make life easier if you are struggling with breathing disorders or lung disease. However, this solution does not come at a low cost. Here are some options to look into where one can find Portable Oxygen Concentrator financial assistance.
Medicare or Medicaid
Medicare has always assisted in paying for durable medical equipment (DME). It can cover the rental of oxygen devices. Visit the oxygen equipment section on the Medicare website for all the details and requirements.
Medicare does not cover the costs of purchasing a portable oxygen concentrator. Eligible Medicare recipients will cover the costs of your POC rental.
Take the assistance of your local Social Security office to apply for Medicare. There could be an option for coverage under Medicaid. Apply at the local Department of Social Services.
Payment Plans
There are POC distributors who accept monthly payments. Additionally, medical credit options offer lines of credit to qualified patients such as CareCredit.
Insurance
To maximize the chances of insurance covering your portable oxygen concentrator, ensure that your paperwork is in order.
The documents include a written order for POC from the doctor and relevant medical information, such as the severity of the disease and test results.
In case of denial, one can explain why a POC is needed instead of an oxygen tank. Take enough time and mention all the aspects in which having a POC can maintain quality of life.
The more details are provided, the more chances are to convince your insurance to cover your POC.
Rental Options
Short-term POC rentals are the best option if you do not want to drag your tanks along.
These can be used for special occasions such as work events or vacations. Extra batteries can also be rented for long trips.
Conclusion
Living with breathing disorders can be challenging; however, securing medical equipment can significantly improve your quality of life.
There are various options available to get Portable Oxygen Concentrator financial assistance. So, don’t be discouraged and improve your mobility by addressing health care concerns.
See Also
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