Medicare helps pay for home oxygen therapy when test results confirm the medical need. Here's how it works.
When does Medicare cover home oxygen?
Medicare Part B covers home oxygen equipment as durable medical equipment when your doctor documents a severe lung disease or low blood oxygen levels confirmed by an arterial blood gas or oximetry test, and that oxygen therapy may improve your condition after other measures have failed. Coverage includes the oxygen equipment, contents, tubing, and related accessories. You need a written order and must use a supplier enrolled in Medicare. Re-testing may be required to continue coverage, so keep your doctor's documentation current.
How does oxygen rental and cost work in 2026?
Medicare rents home oxygen equipment for 36 months. After that, the supplier must continue providing the equipment and related supplies for up to an additional 24 months — a total of five years — at no additional rental cost to you, as long as you still need it. After the $283 Part B deductible (2026), Medicare pays 80% of the monthly rental and you pay 20% coinsurance. A Medigap plan can cover that 20%. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP (1-800-633-4427).
How do you get home oxygen approved through Medicare?
Your doctor must order the oxygen and document the qualifying diagnosis and blood-oxygen test results showing medical necessity. You must use a Medicare-enrolled supplier that accepts assignment. Because Medicare requires test results and may require re-testing, staying in touch with your doctor is important. A licensed agent at 1-800-MEDIGAP can help you understand the rental timeline and your costs.