I think you misunderstood something or need to check your information sources, @A MyCOPDTeam Member.

While the oxygen flow rate varies per equipment specifications, there is a huge difference between “pulse” flow and continuous flow. Additionally, any “portable” unit certified by the FAA is the unit you want to consider. If it doesn’t have FAA approval, it’s probably a piece of junk. I’ve included the latest comparison chart in the first link below, along with other links to help you advocate for yourself.

REF: https://www.ncoa.org/adviser/oxygen-machines/be...

REF: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC68...

REF: Actual Medicare reimbursement policy: https://www.cms.gov/medicare-coverage-database/...

I hope this info helps.

Tuesday night, 19-DEC-23

Mentioned Users

A MyCOPDT...

@A MyCOPDTeam Member I also purchased the Inogen a few years ago, the top of he line one with the 2 large batteries and all that. But after a few days I noticed the Pulse feature was giving me fits. I found it quite aggrivating trying to breath at the same time all the time. I ended up selling it because it was after the 1 year refund clause. I use the (D)Tanks with a Backpack when walking long distances and use my Home Concentrator for what I need at home. The Pulse regulators are a Pain in the Butt for me, Continuous flow works the best for me.🥴

Mentioned Users

A MyCOPDT...

I had a portable concentrator briefly, it did not work right as soon as I got it and then died completely after about a month. I currently use a C tank which dispenses pulse O2 in a backpack. It weighs about ten lbs but is very reliable. Having to trade out the empty tanks for full ones is kind of a hassle but considering the problems with the the POC it's worth the hassle.

On my inogen, I have it set at 3 to 4 so I can breathe. My home concentrator is at 2 liters.

The maximum amount of 02 that Inogen G5 will produce is 1.26 LPM, the most that any of the ones you can carry will produce. There is one in the works that is supposed to produce 1.4LPM. Even on pulse dose, that's not enough for many people, and some folks can't use pulse dose and ust have continuous. As for whether Medicare will pay, that depends to at least some extent how well you, your DME and you doc can work with Medicare. You need people who know what they're doing to help you.