For oxygen therapy patients who have been on other types of therapy like liquid oxygen or oxygen tanks, they may want to try out a portable oxygen concentrator for its ease of use, obvious portability, and if it actually works for them over the tanks. On the other hand, they may want to lead a more active lifestyle or do some traveling, but the tanks have prevented them from doing so due to their cumbersome nature.
However, patients may not want to make the major leap into owning a POC right away. They do have another option: renting a portable oxygen concentrator. This way they can get acquainted with the model they're interested in and if it fits into their needs and lifestyle.
Renting is Easy
Renting a portable oxygen concentrator is an easy option. The first thing they need to do is to talk with their doctor and obtain a copy of their oxygen prescription. They also need to know their specific flow rate.
From there, they should call and speak with a respiratory specialist at their chosen supplier about which POC they're interested in. The specialist will help determine if that unit is the best concentrator for them.
The POC rental reservation should be made at least one week in advance of when the patient actually needs the unit. Patients then fill out, sign, and initial the emailed rental agreement. They should then email or fax the signed copy back to their supplier. The unit is then reserved. Portable oxygen concentrators are rented by the week or the month depending on the patient's situation.
The POCs batteries are then charged in preparation for shipping. The unit will arrive one or two days before the rental date.
When the rental dates are completed, all a patient has to do is call their oxygen supplier. The oxygen supplier will schedule UPS to come to any specified address to pick up the portable oxygen machine.
Advantages of Renting
One of the main reasons that oxygen therapy patients rent a POC is for airline travel. The FAA only allows patients to fly with POCs as liquid oxygen or tanks are not allowed on flights. They can obtain a continuous flow POC with extra batteries and be completely covered, especially since these units are also CPAP and BiPAP compatible. Patients can then enjoy a trip that is hassle-free.
Patients can literally "try-before-you-buy" to see if a POC suits their everyday needs. If they want to increase their activities outside of their home, the POC is ideal, and renting one can prove to be a valuable process in order to become acquainted with any unit they choose.
We currently have a full rental fleet including the brand new SeQual eQuinox and the 1.75 pound AirSep Focus. One of our respiratory specialists will be able to recommend a portable oxygen concentrator that will suit your oxygen and lifestyle needs.
