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What's the Cost for Oxygen?

Most hospitalized COVID patients who are on home care require supplemental oxygen 24/7. The length of time they will supplemental oxygen is dependent on the status of their lungs and heart, and the bodies ability to heal. Several companies specialize in providing products and services to support recovering covid patients.


The estimated average cost per patient, per month, for home oxygen therapy is $201.20, with $55.81 of that for equipment and the rest for services. My equipment and services costs exceed $200 a month based on monthly contract. This included the home oxygen concentrator and a start up supply of 4 large tanks and the oxygen regulator that attaches to the tanks to regulate flow.


The tanks are cumbersome but essential for the patient to participate in follow up medical appointments. The oxygen industry, however, has evolved to meet patient needs. Lightweight battery operated oxygen concentrators weighing less than 5 lbs. are available. The costs for these can exceed $2,000. These costs may not be covered by all insurances including Medicare.


Another option, which is covered by insurance are smaller lightweight tanks that come with an on demand oxygen regulator. This picture shows both versions of the tanks. The smaller tank in the blue carry bag is equipped with a regulator. Based on size and volume alone the large tanks can provide more use time; typically 5-7 hours of oxygen. However, the on demand regulator on the small tanks can provide the user with 3-5 hours based on body oxygen demand.


I tested the regulator prior to adopting it for my use and found it a welcome relief from the large tanks. The regulator can also be used on the large tanks. The lightweight weight tanks work well for short walks and outings as I work to restore my lung capacity. Depending on my recovery, we may investigate purchasing a lightweight personal oxygen concentrator. A number of used concentrators are available on line. But, before we make a purchase we will do our homework.




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