Oxygen therapy is essential for many patients living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or other respiratory conditions. A portable oxygen concentrator is a medical device a patient may use during oxygen therapy. If you have a lung condition or difficulty breathing, a portable oxygen concentrator helps your body get the oxygen it needs to function.
Portable oxygen concentrators are becoming more common and favored for their ease of use. Unlike traditional oxygen cylinders and stationery concentrators, POCs are small and lightweight. These oxygen machines are ideal for providing oxygen on the go and are FAA-approved.
So, how much does a portable oxygen concentrator cost? Many factors determine the cost of a portable oxygen concentrator. The price will vary depending on whether you're buying or renting, new or refurbished, the brand, oxygen output and flow rates, accompanying accessories, and much more. Let's dive deeper and how much a portable oxygen concentrator costs.
Portable oxygen concentrator prices range from slightly below $1,000 to above $3,000. It is not that cheaper POC models are ineffective. You will only miss capabilities and added functions in high-priced models. Depending on your finances, plenty of portable oxygen concentrator models can fit your budget.
We will classify the price range of portable oxygen concentrators into three categories: Low-end, Mid-range, and high-end models.
The low-end models of portable oxygen concentrators have fewer pulse rate settings and low oxygen output. The devices are ideal for people whose oxygen requirements are not high. Low-end models may also have a shorter warranty, lifespan, and battery life.
Other shortcomings of these models are the lack of accessories and incompatibility with CPAP or BiPAP machines.
Most mid-range model portable oxygen concentrators have up to five pulse rate settings and can output over 1000ml/min of pure oxygen. They also come with extended battery life and a longer warranty.
Mid-range models are also ergonomically designed for back or side carrying. New suppliers in the market are coming up with advanced models in this price range. An example is the ReadyO2 Pro model.
High-end models of portable oxygen concentrators are the most effective for patients who need high oxygen levels. You can continuously use a high-end portable oxygen concentrator 24/7 so long as they have power. The models come with multiple accessories.
They have the most extended battery life, warranty, and lifespan. Most models in this category also support CPAP and BiPAP machines.
Many factors influence a portable oxygen concentrator's cost. Like any other machine, performance, user-friendliness, and machine status affect the buying price. The key factors that influence the cost of a portable oxygen concentrator are:
Buying a new portable oxygen concentrator is the most expensive option. But you will reap the benefits of a full warranty and accessories with a new POC. New portable oxygen concentrators cost range between $800 to above $3,000.
A used portable oxygen concentrator will be slightly more expensive than a new one. The price for a used oxygen concentrator may vary drastically depending on the usage period. Costs for used portable oxygen concentrators rely on the model, accompanying accessories, and device condition. They range from $1,000 to $2,500.
You can also rent a portable oxygen concentrator. It is the best option for short-term needs such as vacations, work events, or short therapy. Rental costs vary depending on the model of the concentrator and the rental period. Rental prices start at $150 per week.
Oxygen machines with high oxygen output volumes and flow rates are more expensive. An example is the Inogen Rove6 model, which outputs 1260ml with six flow rate settings. It costs above $3,000.
Most models that cost less than $2,000 deliver up to 1000ml or lower. They also operate with a maximum of five flow settings.
Battery life is crucial, especially for people who spend long hours outdoors. The longer the battery life, the fewer times you need to charge.
You can get a portable oxygen concentrator costing less than $2,500 with a battery life of over six hours. Some models also support dual batteries, which come with an additional cost during the purchase.
All portable oxygen concentrators are portable. But they come in different sizes and shapes. Caire Freestyle Comfort portable oxygen concentrator is ergonomically designed to ease portability and costs $2,495.
There are also smaller portable devices that cost less but may lack some features or have low oxygen output levels.
Some portable oxygen concentrators cost more due to their brand name and reputation. Brands like Inogen, Caire, and Oxlife are pricey.
These companies' reputation in portable oxygen concentrator innovation and services stems from a prolonged period in the industry. Most of their products cost above $2,000.
The more accessories that come with your portable oxygen concentrator, the more expensive it is. Portable oxygen concentrators with extended warranties also come at higher prices.
However, buying a portable oxygen concentrator with most accessories eliminates the need to source these amenities later. A more extended warranty also shows the manufacturer's confidence in the device.
Portable oxygen concentrators are categorized as durable medical equipment (DME) and thus enjoy insurance coverage.
Medicare, Medicaid, and most private health insurance plans cover the costs of POCs. Medical coverage for oxygen machines and accessories lasts 5 years—their set reasonable lifetime for oxygen devices.
Insurance coverage for portable oxygen concentrators is mainly rental. Under Medicare, you must pay 20% of the approved oxygen costs for up to 36 months or three years. After the first 36 months, your supplier must continue the rental services for the next two years.
Private health insurance cover for portable oxygen concentrators depends on the policy document (insurance agreement). Discuss with your insurance agent to discover what the deal entails or how to include a POC in your cover.
All machines have running and hidden costs. When buying, consider the hidden costs of running your portable oxygen concentrator. Here are some hidden costs to consider for a portable oxygen concentrator.
Electricity is the main recurrent cost when using an oxygen concentrator.
Portable oxygen concentrators typically consume less energy. They use 100 to 150 watts.
Stationary oxygen concentrators consume between 300 to 600 watts. Factors affecting a POC wattage are the model or make flow settings and usage frequency.
To calculate an oxygen concentrator's electricity usage and cost, you need the device's power rating (wattage). Convert the wattage into Kilowatt-Hours (kWh) by dividing by 1,000. Multiply the kWh by 24 hours to get daily usage, which you use to calculate monthly consumption.
Understanding your portable concentrator power requirements and the factors influencing its wattage is good.
They will help you to calculate your monthly electric bill. The figures will guide you in effectively and economically managing your portable oxygen concentrator costs.
Long-lasting batteries with shorter charge durations are better. You can also look for models supporting a dual battery for extended outdoor use.
Ensure you carry a backup battery when using your portable oxygen concentrator remotely without primary power sources. However, a battery influences a portable oxygen concentrator's cost.
Their filters may not be interchangeable because of portable oxygen concentrators' varying sizes, shapes, and inner workings. Ensure you use the recommended filter as per the manufacturer's instructions.
Filters of a portable oxygen cost largely depend on the brand and the model. High-end model filters may be more pricey than low-end portable oxygen concentrator models. Patented model filters may also cost more due to a lack of competition.
You should also consider the recommended cleaning supplies. A model that uses home-based cleaning materials is cheaper to maintain.
Buying a machine that needs specialized cleaning materials increases your portable oxygen concentrator cost.
Servicing costs may increase because of logistics during the service. Look for a manufacturer whose service center is near you to reduce logistical costs.
Like other parts of a portable oxygen concentrator, the batteries are not interchangeable among models. Batteries and column designs suit specific device shapes and compensate for size.
So, confirm battery and column replacement recommendations and cost before you buy to make a wise decision. You will likely depend on the same supplier when you need a new battery or columns.
The main factor that can affect your battery lifespan is improper charging. Always use a charger with the correct rating. Safeguard your original charger; it's the best for your battery.
The average lifespan of portable oxygen concentrators is between 4 and 7 years. CMS, on their side, considers 5 years to be a reasonable lifespan for all oxygen equipment.
Several Factors affect your device longevity, such as:
Most portable oxygen concentrator models recommend a once-a-year service by a professional maintenance technician. You should adhere to your device's regular check calendar. They help ensure the machine operates correctly and contribute to the device's lifespan.
In addition to adhering to the device service schedule, you can make it last longer by performing simple home maintenance, such as:
Signs that the concentrator may need to be repaired or replaced.
Many portable oxygen concentrators come with a digital display. They can show variations in output and other problems on the screen. Consult a professional technician if your device does not meet the expected results.
If a physical element accidentally damages your portable oxygen concentrator, you seek repairs or replacement. Another sign that the concentrator may need to be repaired or replaced is the machine output falling far below the lower percentage mark.
You should always thoroughly research different portable oxygen concentrators before making a purchase. Consult your healthcare provider for a prescription for your oxygen requirements. The prescription helps you choose the most appropriate device for your needs.
Even if an oxygen concentrator may seem more expensive than traditional oxygen tanks, it is cheaper in the long term. Oxygen concentrators do not need refills. They will continue to output pure oxygen if there is power. They are easy to handle and transport. Oxygen concentrators are FAA-approved for air transport, while oxygen tanks are not.
We at ReadyO2 have come up with high-end models at very competitive prices. Our ReadyO2 Pro outputs 1000ml at five pulse ratings for 24/7. It also comes with intelligent, user-friendly software for managing the device