Oxygen Concentrator
Can I use a portable 02 concentrator to fill 02 cylinders?
Do I need a humidifier? What types of humidifiers are there?
What type of mask do I need?
Can I be reimbursed by Medicaid, Medicare, or my insurance company reimburse me for my oxygen concentrator?
Commonly Asked Questions About Oxygen Concentrators
Can I use a portable O2 concentrator to fill O2 cylinders?
No, oxygen cylinders used compressed oxygen, which requires an oxygen concentrator. Vitality Medical does not currently sell compressors.
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Do I need a humidifier? What types of humidifiers are there?
Humidifiers can be very helpful in preventing the nose, mouth, and throat from becoming too dry. If you use a humidifier, be sure to replace the water once a day with distilled water.
There are several different types of humidifiers:
- Evaporative Cool Mist - These humidifiers work by blowing air over a wet wick.
- Impeller - Uses a fan to blow air droplets into the air.
- Ultrasonic - Inaudible sound waves blow water mist into the air. Rarely used currently.
- Vaporizer - Boils water which evaporates in the air.
- Warm Mist - Uses a different method than the vaporizer to boil water.
What type of mask do I need?
The tubing is flexible and can be wrapped around eyeglasses or behind the ear. Many people find the tubing more aesthetically pleasing than the mask. However, the tubing can cause dryness in the nose and cannot be used when you have a stuffy nose. To prevent this dryness, place padding, such as gauze pads or cotton wrap, between the tubing and your skin. The tubing cannot be used while sleeping. The masks can also deliver more oxygen per minute; therefore, tubing may be inappropriate for some patients.
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Can Medicaid, Medicare, or my insurance company reimburse me for my oxygen concentrator?
Many insurance plans reimburse for oxygen concentrators. Typically, you must submit the results of various tests and a diagnosis indicating you need oxygen. Talk with your insurance plan representative to find out if you qualify for oxygen concentrator reimbursement.
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