Does Medicare Pay for Portable Oxygen Concentrators? What You Should Know

If you're searching for a portable oxygen concentrator, you've likely wondered whether Medicare will help cover the cost. The short answer is yes—Medicare Part B does offer coverage for a portable oxygen machine under certain conditions, but the reality may not be what you expect.

How Medicare Coverage Works

Medicare classifies portable oxygen concentrators as Durable Medical Equipment (DME). When you qualify, Medicare covers approximately 80% of the rental cost through an approved supplier, and you pay the remaining 20% coinsurance after meeting your Part B deductible ($283 in 2026).

Here's what the rental structure looks like:

• First 36 months: Monthly rental payments covering the device, accessories, and repairs
• Next 24 months: Supplier continues providing equipment at no additional charge
• After 5 years: You can renew or switch suppliers

To qualify, your doctor must document that your arterial blood oxygen level is at or below 55 mmHg, or your oxygen saturation is at or below 88% at rest.

The Real Challenge with Medicare

Here's the catch: back in 2013, Medicare cut reimbursement rates by roughly 50%. This means most DME suppliers lose money providing lightweight portable units. As a result, many beneficiaries end up with heavy oxygen tanks instead of modern portable concentrators.

According to industry data, approximately 1.5 million Americans rely on supplemental oxygen, yet obtaining a quality portable unit through Medicare remains frustrating for many.

Popular Portable Oxygen Concentrator Comparison

Rather than waiting for Medicare approval or settling for bulky tanks, many users choose to purchase their own device directly. Here's a comparison of leading brands:

Note: Continuous flow delivers steady oxygen regardless of breathing pattern, while pulse dose releases oxygen only when you inhale.

Why Consider Direct Purchase?

Don't let Medicare limitations hold you back from enjoying daily freedom. A portable oxygen concentrator can transform your lifestyle—allowing you to travel, shop, visit family, and stay active without being tethered to heavy equipment or worrying about tank refills.

For budget-conscious buyers seeking excellent value, the HIDGEEM SJ-OX1C stands out as a smart choice. Here's why this model deserves attention:

Continuous Flow Technology: Unlike pulse-dose units that only deliver oxygen when you inhale, the SJ-OX1C provides steady, uninterrupted oxygen flow. This feature is especially helpful for users whose breathing may be weak or irregular, and it works well during sleep.

Versatile Power Options: The SJ-OX1C supports three power sources—AC adapter for home use, car charger for road trips, and a built-in 5400mAh lithium battery providing approximately 100 minutes of portable operation. You're never limited by power availability.

User-Friendly Design: The device includes a remote control, carrying bag with multiple strap options (shoulder, chest, backpack-style), and an intuitive interface. Everything you need comes in the box—no extra purchases required.

Replaceable Molecular Sieve: The molecular sieve is a critical component in any oxygen concentrator. HIDGEEM designed the SJ-OX1C with a replaceable sieve, meaning when performance decreases after extended use, you simply swap it out. This extends the machine's lifespan to 5+ years.

Exceptional Value: At $499 with a 2-year warranty and 30-day return policy, the SJ-OX1C costs a fraction of comparable units from premium brands while delivering reliable continuous flow at 1-6 LPM.

Tips for Getting Started

Whether you pursue Medicare coverage or purchase directly, keep these points in mind:

• Consult your doctor: Get a prescription specifying your oxygen flow requirements
• Compare features: Match the device to your lifestyle—travelers may prioritize weight and battery life
• Check warranty terms: Longer warranties provide peace of mind for your investment
• Consider total cost: Factor in accessories, replacement parts, and long-term maintenance

The Bottom Line

Medicare does cover these devices, but the 2013 reimbursement cuts created real barriers for patients wanting modern, lightweight equipment. Many suppliers simply won't provide portable units because the numbers don't work in their favor.

The good news? Quality options now exist at accessible price points. Brands like HIDGEEM offer reliable continuous-flow devices that deliver freedom and mobility without the $2,000+ price tag of premium brands. With the SJ-OX1C, you can go anywhere—whether strolling through the park, visiting friends, or taking a road trip—while breathing easy.

Life shouldn't stop because you need supplemental oxygen. The right portable concentrator gives you independence back.