Until recently, life with oxygen therapy hadn't changed much in 30 years. With the advent of Portable Oxygen Concentrators, many of the old rules regarding traditional oxygen therapy have changed.

Q. Does Medicare cover the Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

Yes. If you have Medicare part B they cover their standard 80%. You will be responsible for the 20% co-pay, which is about $45/month, unless you have supplemental insurance to cover this amount.

Q:  Why do people on oxygen therapy prefer to travel with a Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

Because, unlike traditional or outdated systems, the Portable Oxygen Therapy Concentrator (POC) is specifically designed for the active oxygen user, is welcomed by most commercial airlines (FAA approved), and virtually eliminates all the cost, worry, and hassle of traveling with oxygen. With a POC you are no longer held back by the time and distance limitations of your current oxygen therapy. Now, whether you are traveling around the block or around the world, you'll enjoy the freedom and convenience of unlimited oxygen anywhere - especially on planes.

Q:  Do you rent Portable Oxygen Concentrators?

Yes.  For more information regarding our rental program please click here and fill out our rental form. One of our Respiratory Consultants will contact you shortly.

Q:  Which commercial airlines allow the POCs on board?

Please refer to brochure section and download our "Flying With Portable Oxygen Guide" to find out which airlines allow travelers to bring their EverGo or SeQual Eclipse.

Q:  Can I bring the Oxygen Concentrator on a cruise?

Most cruise lines will accept passengers who require oxygen with advance notice of at least 10 days and you must arrange for your own oxygen equipment.

Q:  Can I use a Portable Oxygen Concentrator while I sleep?

Most patients are able to, but your may want to speak to your doctor and let him/her determine whether or not a POC is appropriate for you while you sleep. An overnight pulse oximetry test may be necessary to measure your oxygen saturation level while using a POC at night. In the event that you cannot, Open-Aire can supply you with additional equipment to meet your need.

Q:  How much is a Portable Oxygen Concentrator? 

Ultimately it will depend on what your current oxygen prescription is. To find out which unit is best for you call 1-866-874-5371 to speak with a Respiratory consultant about your options.

Q:  How long can a Portable Oxygen Concentrator operate on battery power? 

An Open-Aire POC can operate up to 8 hours on a set of fully charged batteries. It is important to remember that battery life varies from unit to unit and depends on the patients' liter flow setting. A Respiratory Consultant can help determine what your own usage time will be based on model and LPM settings.

Q:  Will high altitudes affect my Portable Oxygen Concentrator?

Your concentrator will continue to produce oxygen, but the actual mass flow of oxygen will be reduced by the altitude. At 10,000 feet you would receive approximately two-thirds the oxygen you would at sea level. Therefore, some patients may need to increase their flow settings in higher elevations.

Q:   How do I know which Portable Oxygen Concentrator is right for me?

Ultimately it is a decision for you and your doctor to make. However, please speak with one of our Respiratory Consults first and they will explain the particular benefits of each unit and help you take the first step to deciding which will be clinically efficient and fit your lifestyle.