How Much Does an Oxygen Concentrator Cost?
Oxygen concentrators deliver essential oxygen-enriched air to people living with respiratory conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, and pulmonary hypertension.
But how much do these life-saving machines cost?
The cost of an oxygen concentrator can vary greatly depending on the type of machine, its features, and whether or not it's a new or used model. Recent data suggests that a new oxygen concentrator can cost anywhere between $595-$4,000.
But there are ways to save on purchasing an oxygen concentrator, including looking for deals and discounts from brands and retailers, considering renting a concentrator covered by Medicare, or purchasing a used or refurbished model.
In this article, we’ll cover the different types of oxygen concentrators and their features, which factors influence their cost, and how to find oxygen concentrators for less.
Key takeaways:
Oxygen concentrators deliver a safe and continuous flow of oxygen-enriched air to support people with chronic respiratory conditions.
The cost of a new oxygen concentrator can vary between $595-$4,000 depending on the type of concentrator and its features.
To find an oxygen concentrator for less, you can search for discounts, consider renting a unit covered by Medicare, or buying a refurbished or used model as opposed to a new one.
How much does an oxygen concentrator cost?
There are several factors that can affect the cost of an oxygen concentrator, including whether or not the model is new.
Data from 2019 suggests that the cost of new oxygen concentrators can start at $595, while other models can cost up to $4,000, depending on the type of machine and its features.
Note: Keep in mind that oxygen therapy should be provided on the basis of a healthcare provider’s prescription, indicating the oxygen flow and duration of use required. All oxygen concentrators approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) require a prescription.
Portable oxygen concentrator
Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) enable people receiving oxygen therapy to leave their home and continue their therapy on-the-go. These devices are lighter so that they can be carried or pulled around while the patient is mobile.
POCs can be powered by a battery source, car charger, or wall outlet. Some POCs are even allowed onboard airplanes, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
The cost of a new portable oxygen concentrator can range between $2,000-$4,000, though the type of battery and accessories can increase this cost.
Stationary oxygen concentrator
Unlike a POC, stationary oxygen concentrators are not designed for mobile use. Stationary oxygen concentrators deliver oxygen to the patient at-home. Typically, they have higher oxygen output and lower costs than POCs.
Pulse dose vs. continuous flow
Pulse dose (also referred to as pulse flow) and continuous flow (also referred to as steady flow) are two methods of oxygen delivery provided by oxygen concentrators.
The pulse dose method delivers customized doses of oxygen depending on your inhalation patterns and breath rate while continuous flow delivers oxygen at a steady (albeit adjustable) rate.
Pulse flow oxygen concentrators tend to be less expensive and more energy efficient, since they require a simpler design and deliver less oxygen on average than a continuous flow machine. However, it’s important to consult with your provider to determine which type of oxygen concentrator is best for your medical needs and lifestyle.
What determines oxygen concentrator costs
Factors that can impact the cost of an oxygen concentrator include:
Type of system
Accessories and features
Model year
Device weight
Oxygen output
Ways to reduce oxygen concentrator costs
There are several ways to reduce the cost of your oxygen concentrator, including finding deals and discounts, renting rather than buying, and looking at refurbished and used models.
Finding deals and discounts
Some medical device suppliers offer deals and discounts on their products, including oxygen concentrators. Searching online and contacting the retailers directly can help you determine whether the device you need is available with a discount.
Rental vs. purchase
Renting is a common strategy to save on a portable or stationary oxygen concentrator. Plus, Medicare recipients receive financial assistance for the cost of their oxygen therapy.
Specifically, Medicare Part B will cover 80% of the cost of oxygen equipment and accessories after the cost of your deductible for up to a five-year rental period through the same supplier.
If you continue to need oxygen therapy for more than five years, you can get replacement equipment from a new supplier, which will start another 5-year supplier obligation period.
Refurbished and used options
If you decide to purchase an oxygen concentrator, looking for refurbished or used models can help to reduce your cost. Just be sure to purchase your device from a reputable source. Asking your healthcare provider for recommended retailers is a great place to start.
Bottom line
Oxygen concentrators can vary widely in cost, depending on the type of machine and flow method you require.
Thankfully, there are several ways you can save money on an oxygen concentrator, including finding deals and discounts through retailers, renting a unit covered by Medicare insurance, or purchasing a refurbished or used model.
Regardless of whether you purchase or rent your machine, be sure to consult with your provider about the best type of concentrator for your needs.
And if you’re curious to learn more about how Medicare covers the cost of oxygen concentrators or any kind of durable medical equipment, call us at 855-900-2427 or book time to talk today.
FAQs
What is the average cost of an oxygen concentrator?
The cost of an oxygen concentrator can vary between $595-$4,000 depending on the type of system, year of manufacture, weight, battery life, oxygen output, and other features.
What are the best ways to save money on an oxygen concentrator?
To reduce the cost of an oxygen concentrator you can look for deals and discounts from brands and retailers, consider renting an oxygen concentrator covered by Medicare, or look for refurbished and used options.
Sources
Hardavella, G., Karampinis, I., Frille, A., Sreter, K., & Rousalova, I. (2019). Oxygen devices and delivery systems. Breathe. doi: 10.1183/20734735.0204-2019
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Oxygen equipment & accessories. Medicare.gov. https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/oxygen-equipment-accessories