tips and advice

Hi Jadetho74 and welcome! We're so glad you found our online community. This is a good question - thanks for posting it!
This is a good topic for you to begin discussing with your (new) physician. Circumstances can vary considerably from patient to patient and the doctor (and you), will know your condition and other aspects of oxygen therapy best.
In general, this may depend on whether you need oxygen throughout the day and night or, just for certain parts of the day. It can also depend on insurance. For some, insurance may pick up the expense.
Then, as you pointed out, the type of oxygen source / delivery method will need to be determined. This can vary from large stationary cylinders, to lightweight portable cylinders, to oxygen concentrators and everything in between.
I do hope this brief reply will provide you with sufficient information to get you started.
If we can assist you in any way, please let me or any other moderator /team member know.
Please know, you are always welcome here!
All the best,
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)

Thanks so much Leon .. As i said I new at this and I see there are many things to consider before deciding on things Its good to know i have you all in my corner.. Ill be around reading all ....

Thanks for your question! It looks like Leon was able to give you some good advice - all which I agree with. I would lean toward renting for a while, as you really have nothing to lose. You could decide in the future to buy if you decide to go that route. In the meantime, be insistent on what you need. The company that provides the portable oxygen has a lot of choices. Sometimes, in order to get exactly what you want/need, your doctor has to get involved by writing a letter and stating why you need something besides the large tanks they initially provide.


Let us know how you make out and what you decide to do. It's always helpful for others in the community to hear.


Be Well,
Lyn (site moderator)

Hi, Jadetho74, I have been very happy renting equipment for almost five years. Haven't really stopped to analyze cost differentials, but I like having someone to call if I need help with it. Also, my Medicare advantage policy pays for almost all of it, so that is helpful. Initially I had the big concentrator with a tank filler on top. Huge, loud, and unwieldy. I also had big portable tanks which I refilled. They were heavy and awkward. After reading about the small portable concentrator, I called around until I found a local company to rent one from. Now, my life is much easier. When I go out, I use a small, 5lb. mini-concentrator which goes over my shoulder. It only lasts about 3 hours on low, but it came with an extra battery, and they easily snap in and out. You can also charge it at home and in the car, while you're using it. At home I use a small, molded plastic concentrator the size of a suitcase, which rolls around and has a handle on top. I don't think I would change the arrangement. At this point it's second nature, which takes some practice, but fewer bumps in the road is the goal. Hope you figure it out, if you haven't already. I'm available to ask questions, if you need to.