How long does it take Medicare to approve oxygen?

Hi Daisydianne,

I'm sure others will chime in with their experiences, but from the experience I've had with patients here in the hospital, I find it doesn't take long at all. Once the doctor submits all the paperwork (correctly), everything should begin to happen quite quickly. I would wait only a few days and then call the doctor's office for an update.

Also, there are a couple of good websites that have information regarding oxygen approvals, etc. None of them give a time frame, but they do contain good information regarding requirments, coverage, and so forth. This is one of them I like: https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/oxygen-equipment-and-accessories.html

Let us know how you make out.

Regards,
Lyn (moderator)

Hi Daiseydianne, Thank you for posting your question on our Q and A site. As Lyn stated earlier it shouldn't take long to get your oxygen once everything gets rolling. I'm sorry a specific time frame can't be given. I am hoping some of our community members will share some of their personal experiences with to give you an idea. Please remember that every case is different and it can also depend on the speed in which doctors office can get all of their information submitted. I would definitely call and inquire on the status if you haven't heard anything in a couple days. I am sorry I couldn't be more helpful, but please don't hesitate to reach out if you have anymore questions.
Best wishes,
Noel COPD.net Team)

Hi, about all I can tell you is what happened to me. I went to my breathing doctor. She told me I will be using oxygen. She didn't say when I would get it so, like you I had no idea. The next day here came a man in a van with a concentrator, and a tank of oxygen and telling me it was ordered by my doctor and that medicare would be paying for it. You could of knocked me over with a feather. I never expected it that quick. I am sure, a lot of it is up to the doctor and their staff calling the company that brings you the oxygen and up to the company that brings the oxygen to your home, as to how fast you get it. As far as billing medicare or getting the approval if you have a medicare card they do all the paper work and that should have nothing to do with how long it takes to get your oxygen.