Re: Back up oxygen systems

[Guest guest]

Sue

Rather typical battle with oxygen supplier and insurance company.

First, you should not have to pay for backup when out. I would try

diplomatically but the ultimate question would be to the insurer " do you

want to be liable for what might happen if the Companion freezes or

fails when I'm out? " Getting backups to portables is a common problem.

Others might provide more insight of what they've done if you provided

the name of your insurer and oxygen supplier. Unless your insurer is one

like Cigna insisting on a supplier like Apria, if a supplier won't meet

your needs it is always possible to switch. However, it sounds like

overall your supplier is coming very close.

Second, the amounts insurers are billed and patients and doctors and

hospitals for some items is absurd. A Nonin 9500 oximeter is sold online

for $239.95. Apria was going to bill Aetna either $1580 for a sale or

$280 per month for rental and Aetna was going to pay their 80%. Of

course my 20% at that time was still more than the cost outright.

Doctors and nurses still think oximeters are very expensive because they

pay over $1000 for Nonin 9500's. Then they are really shocked to find

out there is an FDA approved oximeter for $65 which checks out

completely beside theirs. So you are being charged an exhorbitant rate

on the cart even if their cart is especially high quality. On the other

hand what you're charged on the cylinder doesn't seem bad at all.

I applaud a couple of things which you're doing. Unfortunately many

can't afford to. But you got the E cart and cylinder whether you had to

pay or not. I've also made some purchases on my own and may add to my

inventory of items in the future. However, one can still insist on more

from your insurer and provider.

As to the concentrator, at least they were honest in saying it was for

their convenience. Its also for their cost savings. But I like that they

didn't give you some story about it being all the insurer would pay for

or better for you in some way or anything else.

One thing too for anyone having trouble getting what they need and want.

Have your doctor write a very specific prescription. My current

prescription specifies liquid reservoir at home and Helios Marathon

portable by name. So one might try getting specified Companion T

portable with two E tanks and cart for backup. Who knows if that will

help.

Also when you're looking for backup equipment or spares there are many

purveyors of used and rebuilt equipment online (some of which may have

come from oxygen providers but also your oxygen providers buy rebuilt

equipment too sometimes). There is also equipment sold regularly on

craigslist and occasionally on ebay.

To those of you looking for other things like Scooters or Powerchairs I

would highly recommend craigslist or any local penny pincher or that

type newspaper. Because most wait for insurance or medicare to pay for

such there is a horrible resale market. Not that medicare will not pay

for a chair until you need it to get around indoors. They don't

recognize any need for you to be mobile outdoors. I purchased a chair

which retails for over $5000 and sells online for over $4000 from a very

nice private individual through craigslist. I paid $500 and it had fewer

than 350 hours on it and the diagnostics I got run on it by The Scooter

Store showed it to be in perfect shape.

Just keep your eyes open. Just looked out of curiosity today on local

craigslist. Chairs 850-1500 but some probably negotiable. When I bought

a few months ago there were many from $400-700. Oxygen concentrators

$150-365. Well, a used concentrator for $365, no way. You can buy

rebuilt with warranty from reputable firms for $250-325. Or you can buy

new for as low as $499 online with warranty.

>

> Hi list friends

>

> My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system

> with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2

> dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter

> concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the

> concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and

> refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.

> I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails

> (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).

> For my own peace of mind, my other " back up " (for which I am

> billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at

> Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is

> charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I

> order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for

> under $30. i feel I am getting " ripped off " by the o2 supplier on

> what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to

> pay for this other system.

> Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate

> your insight.

> Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA

>

[Guest guest]

Sue

Rather typical battle with oxygen supplier and insurance company.

First, you should not have to pay for backup when out. I would try

diplomatically but the ultimate question would be to the insurer " do you

want to be liable for what might happen if the Companion freezes or

fails when I'm out? " Getting backups to portables is a common problem.

Others might provide more insight of what they've done if you provided

the name of your insurer and oxygen supplier. Unless your insurer is one

like Cigna insisting on a supplier like Apria, if a supplier won't meet

your needs it is always possible to switch. However, it sounds like

overall your supplier is coming very close.

Second, the amounts insurers are billed and patients and doctors and

hospitals for some items is absurd. A Nonin 9500 oximeter is sold online

for $239.95. Apria was going to bill Aetna either $1580 for a sale or

$280 per month for rental and Aetna was going to pay their 80%. Of

course my 20% at that time was still more than the cost outright.

Doctors and nurses still think oximeters are very expensive because they

pay over $1000 for Nonin 9500's. Then they are really shocked to find

out there is an FDA approved oximeter for $65 which checks out

completely beside theirs. So you are being charged an exhorbitant rate

on the cart even if their cart is especially high quality. On the other

hand what you're charged on the cylinder doesn't seem bad at all.

I applaud a couple of things which you're doing. Unfortunately many

can't afford to. But you got the E cart and cylinder whether you had to

pay or not. I've also made some purchases on my own and may add to my

inventory of items in the future. However, one can still insist on more

from your insurer and provider.

As to the concentrator, at least they were honest in saying it was for

their convenience. Its also for their cost savings. But I like that they

didn't give you some story about it being all the insurer would pay for

or better for you in some way or anything else.

One thing too for anyone having trouble getting what they need and want.

Have your doctor write a very specific prescription. My current

prescription specifies liquid reservoir at home and Helios Marathon

portable by name. So one might try getting specified Companion T

portable with two E tanks and cart for backup. Who knows if that will

help.

Also when you're looking for backup equipment or spares there are many

purveyors of used and rebuilt equipment online (some of which may have

come from oxygen providers but also your oxygen providers buy rebuilt

equipment too sometimes). There is also equipment sold regularly on

craigslist and occasionally on ebay.

To those of you looking for other things like Scooters or Powerchairs I

would highly recommend craigslist or any local penny pincher or that

type newspaper. Because most wait for insurance or medicare to pay for

such there is a horrible resale market. Not that medicare will not pay

for a chair until you need it to get around indoors. They don't

recognize any need for you to be mobile outdoors. I purchased a chair

which retails for over $5000 and sells online for over $4000 from a very

nice private individual through craigslist. I paid $500 and it had fewer

than 350 hours on it and the diagnostics I got run on it by The Scooter

Store showed it to be in perfect shape.

Just keep your eyes open. Just looked out of curiosity today on local

craigslist. Chairs 850-1500 but some probably negotiable. When I bought

a few months ago there were many from $400-700. Oxygen concentrators

$150-365. Well, a used concentrator for $365, no way. You can buy

rebuilt with warranty from reputable firms for $250-325. Or you can buy

new for as low as $499 online with warranty.

>

> Hi list friends

>

> My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system

> with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2

> dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter

> concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the

> concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and

> refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.

> I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails

> (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).

> For my own peace of mind, my other " back up " (for which I am

> billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at

> Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is

> charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I

> order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for

> under $30. i feel I am getting " ripped off " by the o2 supplier on

> what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to

> pay for this other system.

> Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate

> your insight.

> Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA

>

[Guest guest]

Sue

Rather typical battle with oxygen supplier and insurance company.

First, you should not have to pay for backup when out. I would try

diplomatically but the ultimate question would be to the insurer " do you

want to be liable for what might happen if the Companion freezes or

fails when I'm out? " Getting backups to portables is a common problem.

Others might provide more insight of what they've done if you provided

the name of your insurer and oxygen supplier. Unless your insurer is one

like Cigna insisting on a supplier like Apria, if a supplier won't meet

your needs it is always possible to switch. However, it sounds like

overall your supplier is coming very close.

Second, the amounts insurers are billed and patients and doctors and

hospitals for some items is absurd. A Nonin 9500 oximeter is sold online

for $239.95. Apria was going to bill Aetna either $1580 for a sale or

$280 per month for rental and Aetna was going to pay their 80%. Of

course my 20% at that time was still more than the cost outright.

Doctors and nurses still think oximeters are very expensive because they

pay over $1000 for Nonin 9500's. Then they are really shocked to find

out there is an FDA approved oximeter for $65 which checks out

completely beside theirs. So you are being charged an exhorbitant rate

on the cart even if their cart is especially high quality. On the other

hand what you're charged on the cylinder doesn't seem bad at all.

I applaud a couple of things which you're doing. Unfortunately many

can't afford to. But you got the E cart and cylinder whether you had to

pay or not. I've also made some purchases on my own and may add to my

inventory of items in the future. However, one can still insist on more

from your insurer and provider.

As to the concentrator, at least they were honest in saying it was for

their convenience. Its also for their cost savings. But I like that they

didn't give you some story about it being all the insurer would pay for

or better for you in some way or anything else.

One thing too for anyone having trouble getting what they need and want.

Have your doctor write a very specific prescription. My current

prescription specifies liquid reservoir at home and Helios Marathon

portable by name. So one might try getting specified Companion T

portable with two E tanks and cart for backup. Who knows if that will

help.

Also when you're looking for backup equipment or spares there are many

purveyors of used and rebuilt equipment online (some of which may have

come from oxygen providers but also your oxygen providers buy rebuilt

equipment too sometimes). There is also equipment sold regularly on

craigslist and occasionally on ebay.

To those of you looking for other things like Scooters or Powerchairs I

would highly recommend craigslist or any local penny pincher or that

type newspaper. Because most wait for insurance or medicare to pay for

such there is a horrible resale market. Not that medicare will not pay

for a chair until you need it to get around indoors. They don't

recognize any need for you to be mobile outdoors. I purchased a chair

which retails for over $5000 and sells online for over $4000 from a very

nice private individual through craigslist. I paid $500 and it had fewer

than 350 hours on it and the diagnostics I got run on it by The Scooter

Store showed it to be in perfect shape.

Just keep your eyes open. Just looked out of curiosity today on local

craigslist. Chairs 850-1500 but some probably negotiable. When I bought

a few months ago there were many from $400-700. Oxygen concentrators

$150-365. Well, a used concentrator for $365, no way. You can buy

rebuilt with warranty from reputable firms for $250-325. Or you can buy

new for as low as $499 online with warranty.

>

> Hi list friends

>

> My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system

> with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2

> dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter

> concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the

> concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and

> refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.

> I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails

> (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).

> For my own peace of mind, my other " back up " (for which I am

> billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at

> Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is

> charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I

> order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for

> under $30. i feel I am getting " ripped off " by the o2 supplier on

> what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to

> pay for this other system.

> Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate

> your insight.

> Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA

>

[Guest guest]

Sue,

I had a couple of thoughts to add to Bruce's advice on dealing with the insurance. (Having your doctor write a super specific prescription is excellent advice. That has worked every time for me when I had private insurance)

My first thought is yes $45 monthly rental for a cart is ridiculous. It would have to be made of platinum with mink tips on the feet to be worth that price and I'm quite sure it's not. If it were me, I'd buy my own and then that would limit your out of pocket expense to the tank refills. Even if you had to replace the cart once a year, you'd still be WAY ahead of the game. As a matter of fact I did purchase my own cart for about $30. I limit what I need to get from the suppliers since I'm in the 2 year waiting period for Medicare and no longer have private insurance. I'm certainly not going to pay to rent a cart when I can buy my own for less than one months rental.

The other thing that strikes me as odd is that you have to use your own oxygen at pulmonary rehab. Is this the formal rehab program or the after care maintanance program? Most rehab programs that I know of have you use their oxygen while you're there. If you have no choice but to use your own so be it but it might be a question to ask.

I totally understand your desire for redundancy in your O2 systems. To me it's just common sense and a safety consideration.

Good luck with everything!

Beth

Age 48 Fibrotic NSIP 06/06

Change everything. Love and Forgive

Back up oxygen systems

Hi list friendsMy insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2 dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks. I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).For my own peace of mind, my other "back up" (for which I am billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for under $30. i feel I am getting "ripped off" by the o2 supplier on

what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to pay for this other system. Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate your insight.Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA

[Guest guest]

Sue,

I had a couple of thoughts to add to Bruce's advice on dealing with the insurance. (Having your doctor write a super specific prescription is excellent advice. That has worked every time for me when I had private insurance)

My first thought is yes $45 monthly rental for a cart is ridiculous. It would have to be made of platinum with mink tips on the feet to be worth that price and I'm quite sure it's not. If it were me, I'd buy my own and then that would limit your out of pocket expense to the tank refills. Even if you had to replace the cart once a year, you'd still be WAY ahead of the game. As a matter of fact I did purchase my own cart for about $30. I limit what I need to get from the suppliers since I'm in the 2 year waiting period for Medicare and no longer have private insurance. I'm certainly not going to pay to rent a cart when I can buy my own for less than one months rental.

The other thing that strikes me as odd is that you have to use your own oxygen at pulmonary rehab. Is this the formal rehab program or the after care maintanance program? Most rehab programs that I know of have you use their oxygen while you're there. If you have no choice but to use your own so be it but it might be a question to ask.

I totally understand your desire for redundancy in your O2 systems. To me it's just common sense and a safety consideration.

Good luck with everything!

Beth

Age 48 Fibrotic NSIP 06/06

Change everything. Love and Forgive

Back up oxygen systems

Hi list friendsMy insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2 dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks. I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).For my own peace of mind, my other "back up" (for which I am billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for under $30. i feel I am getting "ripped off" by the o2 supplier on

what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to pay for this other system. Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate your insight.Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA

[Guest guest]

Sue,

I had a couple of thoughts to add to Bruce's advice on dealing with the insurance. (Having your doctor write a super specific prescription is excellent advice. That has worked every time for me when I had private insurance)

My first thought is yes $45 monthly rental for a cart is ridiculous. It would have to be made of platinum with mink tips on the feet to be worth that price and I'm quite sure it's not. If it were me, I'd buy my own and then that would limit your out of pocket expense to the tank refills. Even if you had to replace the cart once a year, you'd still be WAY ahead of the game. As a matter of fact I did purchase my own cart for about $30. I limit what I need to get from the suppliers since I'm in the 2 year waiting period for Medicare and no longer have private insurance. I'm certainly not going to pay to rent a cart when I can buy my own for less than one months rental.

The other thing that strikes me as odd is that you have to use your own oxygen at pulmonary rehab. Is this the formal rehab program or the after care maintanance program? Most rehab programs that I know of have you use their oxygen while you're there. If you have no choice but to use your own so be it but it might be a question to ask.

I totally understand your desire for redundancy in your O2 systems. To me it's just common sense and a safety consideration.

Good luck with everything!

Beth

Age 48 Fibrotic NSIP 06/06

Change everything. Love and Forgive

Back up oxygen systems

Hi list friendsMy insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2 dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks. I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).For my own peace of mind, my other "back up" (for which I am billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for under $30. i feel I am getting "ripped off" by the o2 supplier on

what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to pay for this other system. Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate your insight.Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA

[Guest guest]

Sue,

That is how the providers of home health equipment make thier money. I don't understand why insurance companies go along with thier exorbitant pricing. If you are responsible for paying this $45, then yes, I would just buy one for $30.

What liter flow are you on? If you are on low liter flow, you should have a much more convenient portable than the Companion T. That thing is heavy and bulky. I know because it is what I use. But, I am on 10L.

It shouldn't be so costly nor so difficult just to breathe.

Hugs, Joyce D.Pulmonary Fibrosis 1997 Bronchiectasis 2004 Pulmonary Hypertension 2008 Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (Lupus, RA, Sjogren's, etc) Rejected for Transplant 2006 .....I will not forget you. Behold, I have engraved you on the palm of my hands. Isaiah 49: 15-16

>> Hi list friends> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2 > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks. > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).> For my own peace of mind, my other "back up" (for which I am > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for > under $30. i feel I am getting "ripped off" by the o2 supplier on > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to > pay for this other system. > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate > your insight.> Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA>

[Guest guest]

Sue,

That is how the providers of home health equipment make thier money. I don't understand why insurance companies go along with thier exorbitant pricing. If you are responsible for paying this $45, then yes, I would just buy one for $30.

What liter flow are you on? If you are on low liter flow, you should have a much more convenient portable than the Companion T. That thing is heavy and bulky. I know because it is what I use. But, I am on 10L.

It shouldn't be so costly nor so difficult just to breathe.

Hugs, Joyce D.Pulmonary Fibrosis 1997 Bronchiectasis 2004 Pulmonary Hypertension 2008 Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (Lupus, RA, Sjogren's, etc) Rejected for Transplant 2006 .....I will not forget you. Behold, I have engraved you on the palm of my hands. Isaiah 49: 15-16

>> Hi list friends> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2 > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks. > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).> For my own peace of mind, my other "back up" (for which I am > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for > under $30. i feel I am getting "ripped off" by the o2 supplier on > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to > pay for this other system. > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate > your insight.> Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA>

[Guest guest]

Sue,

That is how the providers of home health equipment make thier money. I don't understand why insurance companies go along with thier exorbitant pricing. If you are responsible for paying this $45, then yes, I would just buy one for $30.

What liter flow are you on? If you are on low liter flow, you should have a much more convenient portable than the Companion T. That thing is heavy and bulky. I know because it is what I use. But, I am on 10L.

It shouldn't be so costly nor so difficult just to breathe.

Hugs, Joyce D.Pulmonary Fibrosis 1997 Bronchiectasis 2004 Pulmonary Hypertension 2008 Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (Lupus, RA, Sjogren's, etc) Rejected for Transplant 2006 .....I will not forget you. Behold, I have engraved you on the palm of my hands. Isaiah 49: 15-16

>> Hi list friends> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2 > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks. > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).> For my own peace of mind, my other "back up" (for which I am > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for > under $30. i feel I am getting "ripped off" by the o2 supplier on > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to > pay for this other system. > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate > your insight.> Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA>

[Guest guest]

Peggy

Well, I have a powerchair. Now the differences between a scooter and

powerchair are that a powerchair steers with a joystick and a scooter

with a handlebar. In addition a powerchair has a much shorter turning

radius and is better indoors. Now, traditionally scooters were much

better outdoors but now powerchairs with larger wheels are good

outdoors. An eight inch wheel is too small but twelve inch or larger

does fine.

Now, as to weight, mine weighs over 200 pounds with batteries, seat and

everything. Some weigh much less. But, generally powerchairs weigh more

than scooters. There are small scooters you can even take apart and put

in a car trunk. However, for best mobility you do need some form of a

lift or carrier for the larger ones. you can use a portable ramp into a

pickup but someone has to handle the ramp.

> >

> > Hi list friends

> >

> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system

> > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2

> > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter

> > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the

> > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and

> > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.

> > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails

> > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).

> > For my own peace of mind, my other " back up " (for which I am

> > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at

> > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is

> > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I

> > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for

> > under $30. i feel I am getting " ripped off " by the o2 supplier on

> > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to

> > pay for this other system.

> > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate

> > your insight.

> > Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Peggy

Well, I have a powerchair. Now the differences between a scooter and

powerchair are that a powerchair steers with a joystick and a scooter

with a handlebar. In addition a powerchair has a much shorter turning

radius and is better indoors. Now, traditionally scooters were much

better outdoors but now powerchairs with larger wheels are good

outdoors. An eight inch wheel is too small but twelve inch or larger

does fine.

Now, as to weight, mine weighs over 200 pounds with batteries, seat and

everything. Some weigh much less. But, generally powerchairs weigh more

than scooters. There are small scooters you can even take apart and put

in a car trunk. However, for best mobility you do need some form of a

lift or carrier for the larger ones. you can use a portable ramp into a

pickup but someone has to handle the ramp.

> >

> > Hi list friends

> >

> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system

> > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2

> > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter

> > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the

> > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and

> > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.

> > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails

> > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).

> > For my own peace of mind, my other " back up " (for which I am

> > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at

> > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is

> > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I

> > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for

> > under $30. i feel I am getting " ripped off " by the o2 supplier on

> > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to

> > pay for this other system.

> > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate

> > your insight.

> > Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Peggy,

No, I didn't make church this morning, but I am planning to go to evening services. I am just feeling sick. I can't define one particular thing, but feel awful. There are so many assaults on my poor body, how would I know. They took about a gallon of blood a few days ago, so if something is wrong....they should know.

Guess I should be getting dressed. I wish I could go in my jammies. I know I will be glad that I made the effort.

Hugs, Joyce D.Pulmonary Fibrosis 1997 Bronchiectasis 2004 Pulmonary Hypertension 2008 Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (Lupus, RA, Sjogren's, etc) Rejected for Transplant 2006 .....I will not forget you. Behold, I have engraved you on the palm of my hands. Isaiah 49: 15-16> >> > Hi list friends> >> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system> > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2> > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter> > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the> > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and> > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.> > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails> > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).> > For my own peace of mind, my other "back up" (for which I am> > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at> > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is> > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I> > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for> > under $30. i feel I am getting "ripped off" by the o2 supplier on> > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to> > pay for this other system.> > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate> > your insight.> > Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA> >>

[Guest guest]

Peggy,

No, I didn't make church this morning, but I am planning to go to evening services. I am just feeling sick. I can't define one particular thing, but feel awful. There are so many assaults on my poor body, how would I know. They took about a gallon of blood a few days ago, so if something is wrong....they should know.

Guess I should be getting dressed. I wish I could go in my jammies. I know I will be glad that I made the effort.

Hugs, Joyce D.Pulmonary Fibrosis 1997 Bronchiectasis 2004 Pulmonary Hypertension 2008 Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (Lupus, RA, Sjogren's, etc) Rejected for Transplant 2006 .....I will not forget you. Behold, I have engraved you on the palm of my hands. Isaiah 49: 15-16> >> > Hi list friends> >> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system> > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2> > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter> > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the> > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and> > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.> > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails> > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).> > For my own peace of mind, my other "back up" (for which I am> > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at> > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is> > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I> > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for> > under $30. i feel I am getting "ripped off" by the o2 supplier on> > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to> > pay for this other system.> > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate> > your insight.> > Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA> >>

[Guest guest]

Peggy,

No, I didn't make church this morning, but I am planning to go to evening services. I am just feeling sick. I can't define one particular thing, but feel awful. There are so many assaults on my poor body, how would I know. They took about a gallon of blood a few days ago, so if something is wrong....they should know.

Guess I should be getting dressed. I wish I could go in my jammies. I know I will be glad that I made the effort.

Hugs, Joyce D.Pulmonary Fibrosis 1997 Bronchiectasis 2004 Pulmonary Hypertension 2008 Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (Lupus, RA, Sjogren's, etc) Rejected for Transplant 2006 .....I will not forget you. Behold, I have engraved you on the palm of my hands. Isaiah 49: 15-16> >> > Hi list friends> >> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system> > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2> > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter> > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the> > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and> > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.> > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails> > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).> > For my own peace of mind, my other "back up" (for which I am> > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at> > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is> > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I> > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for> > under $30. i feel I am getting "ripped off" by the o2 supplier on> > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to> > pay for this other system.> > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate> > your insight.> > Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA> >>

[Guest guest]

Joyce

You made two great points. How stupid insurance companies pay ridiculous

prices on things like that and then fight over other things. Of course

the provider says " service and maintenance " . How much maintenance to a

cart? Replace tires every ten years?

Yes, you said low flow concentrator, Sue and Companion T, which is high

flow. Does that mean you have to use the Companion even moving around

the house? Because for low flow the Marathon is much easier and if you

need high flow would seem you would need a high flow concentrator too.

> >

> > Hi list friends

> >

> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system

> > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2

> > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter

> > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the

> > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and

> > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.

> > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails

> > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).

> > For my own peace of mind, my other " back up " (for which I am

> > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at

> > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is

> > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I

> > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for

> > under $30. i feel I am getting " ripped off " by the o2 supplier on

> > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to

> > pay for this other system.

> > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate

> > your insight.

> > Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Joyce

You made two great points. How stupid insurance companies pay ridiculous

prices on things like that and then fight over other things. Of course

the provider says " service and maintenance " . How much maintenance to a

cart? Replace tires every ten years?

Yes, you said low flow concentrator, Sue and Companion T, which is high

flow. Does that mean you have to use the Companion even moving around

the house? Because for low flow the Marathon is much easier and if you

need high flow would seem you would need a high flow concentrator too.

> >

> > Hi list friends

> >

> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system

> > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2

> > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter

> > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the

> > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and

> > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.

> > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails

> > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).

> > For my own peace of mind, my other " back up " (for which I am

> > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at

> > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is

> > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I

> > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for

> > under $30. i feel I am getting " ripped off " by the o2 supplier on

> > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to

> > pay for this other system.

> > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate

> > your insight.

> > Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Joyce

You made two great points. How stupid insurance companies pay ridiculous

prices on things like that and then fight over other things. Of course

the provider says " service and maintenance " . How much maintenance to a

cart? Replace tires every ten years?

Yes, you said low flow concentrator, Sue and Companion T, which is high

flow. Does that mean you have to use the Companion even moving around

the house? Because for low flow the Marathon is much easier and if you

need high flow would seem you would need a high flow concentrator too.

> >

> > Hi list friends

> >

> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system

> > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2

> > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter

> > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the

> > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and

> > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.

> > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails

> > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).

> > For my own peace of mind, my other " back up " (for which I am

> > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at

> > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is

> > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I

> > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for

> > under $30. i feel I am getting " ripped off " by the o2 supplier on

> > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to

> > pay for this other system.

> > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate

> > your insight.

> > Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Joyce

I know you won't but you should be able to go in your jammies if you

wanted. My mother was so traditional in dressing to the hilt for church.

I knew women who sometimes didn't make it just because too much trouble

getting ready. Thats so silly. I remember when we first went to the

church at the lake and my mother was the only one there wearing a hat.

Then when all the kids came down the middle aisle wearing jeans I

thought she was going to lose it. I then pointed out the enormous number

of kids there and reminder her our youth group had nearly died at home

for lack of students in it. So seemed to me the minister there had done

something right to get them all there and I didn't care how they

dressed. I later got to know that minister better and he was great.

Every kid in town knew him whether or not they went to the church

because he attended every sports event, every school function and

befriended them all.

> > >

> > > Hi list friends

> > >

> > > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2

system

> > > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2

> > > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter

> > > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the

> > > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and

> > > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.

> > > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails

> > > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).

> > > For my own peace of mind, my other " back up " (for which I am

> > > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at

> > > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is

> > > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I

> > > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts

for

> > > under $30. i feel I am getting " ripped off " by the o2 supplier on

> > > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co.

to

> > > pay for this other system.

> > > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate

> > > your insight.

> > > Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA

> > >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Joyce

I know you won't but you should be able to go in your jammies if you

wanted. My mother was so traditional in dressing to the hilt for church.

I knew women who sometimes didn't make it just because too much trouble

getting ready. Thats so silly. I remember when we first went to the

church at the lake and my mother was the only one there wearing a hat.

Then when all the kids came down the middle aisle wearing jeans I

thought she was going to lose it. I then pointed out the enormous number

of kids there and reminder her our youth group had nearly died at home

for lack of students in it. So seemed to me the minister there had done

something right to get them all there and I didn't care how they

dressed. I later got to know that minister better and he was great.

Every kid in town knew him whether or not they went to the church

because he attended every sports event, every school function and

befriended them all.

> > >

> > > Hi list friends

> > >

> > > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2

system

> > > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2

> > > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter

> > > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the

> > > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and

> > > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.

> > > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails

> > > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).

> > > For my own peace of mind, my other " back up " (for which I am

> > > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at

> > > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is

> > > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I

> > > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts

for

> > > under $30. i feel I am getting " ripped off " by the o2 supplier on

> > > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co.

to

> > > pay for this other system.

> > > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate

> > > your insight.

> > > Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA

> > >

> >

>

[Guest guest]

Thanks guys for your responses. To answer some of

your questions –MB: the cart is not made of platinum with

mink tips (too bad) in fact, the wheels are well worn and the screw that

holds the cylinder is almost stripped. When I said Pulmonary

rehab, I actually meant a cardiac and pulmonary maintenance

program at the local wellness center. When I went through the hospital

approved program, they supplied the o2. I am on 4 liters at rest, but I

find 3 is OK too, but I’m on 6-8 on exertion. When I’m

exercising, I also have to use a rebreather mask which I hate to keep the o2

levels up.

I

am going to take Bruce’s advice and “diplomatically”

inquire of the o2 supplier about the cost of the cart rental.

I guess what really got me to thinking about this,

is that I got a bill for over $200 which covered several

months. It’s much easier to pay a smaller amount each month

than be hit with a whopper of a bill.

I

have my 3-month check up coming in a week and I guess I’m

nervous about that. I just have this gnawing feeling that the

disease has progressed. When you have a few bad days, you can’t

help but think it’s the disease, but it could be the

weather or meds too. I have been going to Duke for my care,

and was told that my dr. is going to be taking over the medical aspects

of the transplant program and has to give up his fibrosis

patients. I’ve heard a couple of you mention Dr.

on and a dr. friend also suggested a Dr. Govert. I will

see who Dr. Steele recommends and go from there.

Thanks

for your suggestions.

Sue D, 62 yr old, Fibrotic NSIP dx 9/07, VA

[Guest guest]

Thanks guys for your responses. To answer some of

your questions –MB: the cart is not made of platinum with

mink tips (too bad) in fact, the wheels are well worn and the screw that

holds the cylinder is almost stripped. When I said Pulmonary

rehab, I actually meant a cardiac and pulmonary maintenance

program at the local wellness center. When I went through the hospital

approved program, they supplied the o2. I am on 4 liters at rest, but I

find 3 is OK too, but I’m on 6-8 on exertion. When I’m

exercising, I also have to use a rebreather mask which I hate to keep the o2

levels up.

I

am going to take Bruce’s advice and “diplomatically”

inquire of the o2 supplier about the cost of the cart rental.

I guess what really got me to thinking about this,

is that I got a bill for over $200 which covered several

months. It’s much easier to pay a smaller amount each month

than be hit with a whopper of a bill.

I

have my 3-month check up coming in a week and I guess I’m

nervous about that. I just have this gnawing feeling that the

disease has progressed. When you have a few bad days, you can’t

help but think it’s the disease, but it could be the

weather or meds too. I have been going to Duke for my care,

and was told that my dr. is going to be taking over the medical aspects

of the transplant program and has to give up his fibrosis

patients. I’ve heard a couple of you mention Dr.

on and a dr. friend also suggested a Dr. Govert. I will

see who Dr. Steele recommends and go from there.

Thanks

for your suggestions.

Sue D, 62 yr old, Fibrotic NSIP dx 9/07, VA

[Guest guest]

Thanks guys for your responses. To answer some of

your questions –MB: the cart is not made of platinum with

mink tips (too bad) in fact, the wheels are well worn and the screw that

holds the cylinder is almost stripped. When I said Pulmonary

rehab, I actually meant a cardiac and pulmonary maintenance

program at the local wellness center. When I went through the hospital

approved program, they supplied the o2. I am on 4 liters at rest, but I

find 3 is OK too, but I’m on 6-8 on exertion. When I’m

exercising, I also have to use a rebreather mask which I hate to keep the o2

levels up.

I

am going to take Bruce’s advice and “diplomatically”

inquire of the o2 supplier about the cost of the cart rental.

I guess what really got me to thinking about this,

is that I got a bill for over $200 which covered several

months. It’s much easier to pay a smaller amount each month

than be hit with a whopper of a bill.

I

have my 3-month check up coming in a week and I guess I’m

nervous about that. I just have this gnawing feeling that the

disease has progressed. When you have a few bad days, you can’t

help but think it’s the disease, but it could be the

weather or meds too. I have been going to Duke for my care,

and was told that my dr. is going to be taking over the medical aspects

of the transplant program and has to give up his fibrosis

patients. I’ve heard a couple of you mention Dr.

on and a dr. friend also suggested a Dr. Govert. I will

see who Dr. Steele recommends and go from there.

Thanks

for your suggestions.

Sue D, 62 yr old, Fibrotic NSIP dx 9/07, VA

[Guest guest]

Fay

A few sources for concentrators.

Craigslist, etc. generally from individuals with no warrantee but may find some with little usage due to deaths.

Dealers with rebuilt concentrators with warrantees.

http://www.hytechrespiratory.com/

http://advantagemedicalsystems.com/health-equipment-discounts.htm

http://www.dotmed.com/equipment/7/10/491/all/ always has a large listing from various sources.

As to new concentrators:

http://www.cpapusa.com/oxygen/search.php?category=O2%20Concentrators & type=machine starting at $735.

http://www.tri-medinc.com/TM/concentrator_index.html starting at $629.95.

https://www.suprememedical.com/pc-282-9-oxygen-concentrators.aspx starting at $499.

http://portablenebs.com/concentrator.htm starting at $657.

I have purchased from Tri-Med and Portable Nebs and had good service.

> >> > Hi list friends> >> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system> > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2> > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter> > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the> > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and> > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.> > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails> > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).> > For my own peace of mind, my other "back up" (for which I am> > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at> > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is> > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I> > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for> > under $30. i feel I am getting "ripped off" by the o2 supplier on> > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to> > pay for this other system.> > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate> > your insight.> > Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA> >>

[Guest guest]

Fay

A few sources for concentrators.

Craigslist, etc. generally from individuals with no warrantee but may find some with little usage due to deaths.

Dealers with rebuilt concentrators with warrantees.

http://www.hytechrespiratory.com/

http://advantagemedicalsystems.com/health-equipment-discounts.htm

http://www.dotmed.com/equipment/7/10/491/all/ always has a large listing from various sources.

As to new concentrators:

http://www.cpapusa.com/oxygen/search.php?category=O2%20Concentrators & type=machine starting at $735.

http://www.tri-medinc.com/TM/concentrator_index.html starting at $629.95.

https://www.suprememedical.com/pc-282-9-oxygen-concentrators.aspx starting at $499.

http://portablenebs.com/concentrator.htm starting at $657.

I have purchased from Tri-Med and Portable Nebs and had good service.

> >> > Hi list friends> >> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system> > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2> > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter> > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the> > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and> > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.> > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails> > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).> > For my own peace of mind, my other "back up" (for which I am> > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at> > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is> > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I> > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for> > under $30. i feel I am getting "ripped off" by the o2 supplier on> > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to> > pay for this other system.> > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate> > your insight.> > Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA> >>

[Guest guest]

Fay

A few sources for concentrators.

Craigslist, etc. generally from individuals with no warrantee but may find some with little usage due to deaths.

Dealers with rebuilt concentrators with warrantees.

http://www.hytechrespiratory.com/

http://advantagemedicalsystems.com/health-equipment-discounts.htm

http://www.dotmed.com/equipment/7/10/491/all/ always has a large listing from various sources.

As to new concentrators:

http://www.cpapusa.com/oxygen/search.php?category=O2%20Concentrators & type=machine starting at $735.

http://www.tri-medinc.com/TM/concentrator_index.html starting at $629.95.

https://www.suprememedical.com/pc-282-9-oxygen-concentrators.aspx starting at $499.

http://portablenebs.com/concentrator.htm starting at $657.

I have purchased from Tri-Med and Portable Nebs and had good service.

> >> > Hi list friends> >> > My insurance company (not medicare) is billed for a liquid o2 system> > with a Companion T(I think that's the name) portable. The o2> > dealer also supplies (they say free of charge) a l0 liter> > concentrator (which I use in the house). The 02 supplier says the> > concentrator is for their convenience as far as scheduling and> > refilling. I get the liquid refilled about every 2 weeks.> > I also have one of those HUGE tanks in case the electricity fails> > (which happened for the first time yesterday for about 2 hrs).> > For my own peace of mind, my other "back up" (for which I am> > billed)is the cart that holds one E-tank. I have to use that at> > Pulmonary rehab to get the proper o2 flow. The o2 supplier is> > charging me $45 a month for cart rental plus $10 for each E-Tank I> > order. I have been online and find I can buy one of those carts for> > under $30. i feel I am getting "ripped off" by the o2 supplier on> > what I have to pay out of pocket. I am not expecting the ins co. to> > pay for this other system.> > Have any of you faced this? What is your solution? Appreciate> > your insight.> > Sue D, 62, fibrotic NSIP, dx. 10/07, VA> >>