If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a chronic respiratory condition like COPD, a Portable Oxygen Concentrator (POC) can be a lifeline for maintaining independence. But these devices are expensive, often costing $2,000 to $3,000 out of pocket.

The most common question we hear is, “Will Medicare pay for my portable oxygen concentrator?”

The short answer is yes, but with strict conditions. Medicare generally does not buy the device for you; instead, it covers a long-term rental. In this guide, we break down exactly how coverage works, the eligibility requirements for 2025/2026, and how to minimize your out-of-pocket costs.

What is a portable oxygen concentrator?

Unlike heavy oxygen tanks that require constant refilling, a portable oxygen concentrator is a battery-powered device that draws room air, filters out nitrogen, and delivers concentrated oxygen to the user. Because they are lightweight and refill-free, they allow patients to travel, run errands, and remain active outside the home.

How Medicare Coverage Works: Rent vs. Buy

It is a common myth that Medicare will “buy” you a machine. Under Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance), oxygen equipment is classified as Durable Medical Equipment (DME).

• The Rental Model: Medicare pays the supplier a monthly rental fee for your equipment for 36 months.
• The 5-Year Rule: After you make rental payments for 36 months, the supplier must continue to provide the equipment (plus supplies and maintenance) for another 24 months without charging you a rental fee.
• Ownership: You usually do not own the equipment at the end of the 5 years; the supplier retains ownership.

Eligibility: Who Qualifies for Coverage?

To get Medicare to pay for your POC, you must meet specific medical criteria outlined in a face-to-face exam with your doctor.

The 3 Main Requirements:

1. Severe Lung Disease: You must have a diagnosis (such as COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, or cystic fibrosis) where oxygen therapy improves your health.
2. Blood Gas Levels: Your doctor must document that your arterial blood gas levels fall within a defined range (typically PaO2 < 55 mmHg or oxygen saturation < 88%) at rest or during exercise.
3. Mobility Needs: Specifically for a portable unit, your medical records must show that you are mobile within your home and that standard stationary oxygen equipment limits your ability to move around.

Cost Breakdown: What Will You Pay?

Even with coverage, Medicare is not free. Here is what you can expect to pay in 2026:

Note: If you have a Medigap (Medicare Supplement) plan, it will typically cover your 20% coinsurance, leaving you with $0 out-of-pocket costs for the rental.

How to Find a Medicare-Approved Provider

You cannot simply purchase a device from Amazon or any other website and submit the bill to Medicare. You must use a Medicare-approved supplier.

1. Use the Official Tool: Go to Medicare.gov/medical-equipment-suppliers to find suppliers in your zip code.
2. Ask About “Assignment”: rigorous Confirm the supplier accepts “assignment,” which means they agree to charge only the Medicare-approved amount.
3. Check for Competitive Bidding: In some areas of the country, Medicare uses a “Competitive Bidding Program.” If you live in one of these zones, you must use a specific contract supplier to get coverage.

Conclusion

Medicare coverage for portable oxygen concentrators is a vital benefit that ensures mobility for seniors, but it is complex. Remember that Medicare covers a rental, not a purchase, and you must meet strict blood oxygen levels to qualify.

Next Steps:

If you are denied, remember you have the right to appeal the decision.

Schedule a face-to-face appointment with your doctor to discuss your oxygen levels.

Ask your doctor to submit a “Certificate of Medical Necessity” to a local medical supply company.

If you qualify for Medicare but don’t know where to start, we have licensed insurance agents ready to answer your questions and help you enroll in Final Expense, Medicare Advantage, Medicare Supplement Insurance, and Prescription PartD plans.