Trouble breathing shouldn’t mean struggling to afford care. Millions of seniors rely on oxygen tanks, concentrators, and respiratory supplies to manage chronic conditions — but understanding Medicare oxygen equipment coverage 2026 is where most get confused. Between rental rules, deductibles, and what Medicare Advantage really adds, knowing the facts can save you hundreds every year.
Skyline Benefit is an independent Medicare broker helping seniors nationwide compare DME (durable medical equipment) benefits — including oxygen therapy — across Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans, so you get the care you need without unexpected costs.
What Does Medicare Cover for Home Oxygen Equipment in 2026?
Medicare Part B covers medically necessary home oxygen therapy for people with chronic lung disease or other conditions that cause low blood oxygen levels. You must meet specific medical criteria and receive a doctor’s order confirming the need for oxygen.
Covered oxygen-related items include:
- Stationary and portable oxygen concentrators
- Oxygen tanks and cylinders
- Tubing, masks, and humidifiers
- Equipment setup, delivery, and maintenance
Medicare also covers the service, labor, and repairs associated with these items as long as you continue to meet medical need requirements.
How Much Does Oxygen Equipment Cost Under Medicare in 2026?
Costs depend on whether you have Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan, but the base rule remains the same:
- Part B deductible: $288 in 2026
- Coinsurance: After the deductible, Medicare pays 80% of the approved amount; you pay 20%.
Example:
If your monthly oxygen rental costs $200, you’ll pay $40 out of pocket after meeting the deductible, and Medicare covers the rest.
Medigap plans, such as Plan G or Plan N, can cover that 20% coinsurance entirely — saving you from ongoing out-of-pocket expenses.
How the 36-Month Rental Rule Works
Medicare doesn’t buy oxygen equipment outright. Instead, it rents it for up to 36 months (3 years) from a Medicare-approved supplier. After that:
- The supplier must continue providing oxygen equipment for up to 5 years total, including maintenance and servicing.
- You continue paying your usual 20% coinsurance during this time.
- After 5 years, a new rental period may begin if you still require oxygen for medical reasons.
This rule prevents overpayment and ensures seniors always receive maintained, functioning equipment without worrying about replacement costs.
Who Qualifies for Medicare Oxygen Equipment Coverage in 2026?
To qualify, you must meet Medicare’s medical necessity criteria, which include:
- A doctor’s prescription stating you need oxygen for a specific condition.
- Blood gas or pulse oximetry tests showing low oxygen levels.
- Use of a Medicare-enrolled supplier that accepts assignment.
Your doctor must also re-certify your need at regular Medicare-required intervals, ensuring your condition still meets the criteria for ongoing coverage.
Does Medicare Advantage Cover Oxygen Equipment Differently?
If you’re enrolled in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, your coverage must be at least equal to Original Medicare — meaning oxygen equipment remains covered. However, costs, supplier networks, and prior authorization requirements can vary.
Many Advantage plans may include extra respiratory benefits such as:
- Reduced or $0 coinsurance for DME
- Home delivery convenience
- Extra support for COPD or sleep apnea management
Always confirm with your plan’s network supplier before renting new equipment, as some carriers restrict DME vendors to specific partners.
Can Medigap Help Pay for Oxygen Equipment Costs?
Yes — if you’re enrolled in Original Medicare with a Medigap plan, your supplemental policy can fill in most of the cost gaps.
For example:
- Plan G: Covers 100% of the 20% coinsurance.
- Plan N: Covers most costs with minor copays for office visits or ER.
- High-Deductible Plan G: Covers all coinsurance after your deductible is met.
These plans make a big difference for seniors using oxygen long-term, removing recurring monthly expenses.
Tips to Avoid Oxygen Coverage Denials
- Always get a doctor’s order before renting equipment.
- Use a Medicare-approved supplier that accepts assignment.
- Ensure your doctor’s testing and documentation meet Medicare standards.
- Avoid switching suppliers mid-rental period — this can complicate billing.
Need Help Understanding Medicare oxygen equipment coverage in 2026?
Skyline Benefit is an independent Medicare insurance broker helping seniors nationwide compare Medicare oxygen equipment coverage 2026, verify their DME eligibility, and find plans that cover oxygen, CPAP, wheelchairs, and other critical equipment — all at no extra cost.
Call us at: (714) 888-5112