Portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) can be life-changing for those who use them, but choosing the right one for their needs can be daunting.
Understanding the features and differences of each model can help care providers make informed recommendations to patients and decision makers. Alongside deep product knowledge, the ability to communicate these benefits to elderly or otherwise vulnerable patients is equally important.
In this article, we explore the challenges faced in recommending POCs to patients and what features to expect at a given price point.
The Challenges of Recommending POCs
The POC market is full of choice, with major manufacturers all making feature-packed and cutting-edge machines. However, every patient has different requirements, and the manufacturers’ promotional materials can make it seem like every feature is a must-have.
In reality, a lot of patients want a simple, lightweight and affordable POC from a brand they can trust. In addition, device cost is often the most important factor in decision-making.
What Patients Want From POCs
Affordability: Whether it’s covered by insurance or paid out of pocket, price is often a primary concern. If users are elderly or unable to work, this can be especially important.
Low Weight & Size: Portability is one of the main things users look for, as the smaller and lighter the POC, the easier it is to carry throughout the day.
Battery Capacity: Like size, a larger battery capacity allows people to go about their day more easily, with fewer charges required.
FAA Approval: POCs with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval can safely be used on planes, allowing the user to travel as they wish.
Oxygen Delivery: POCs must deliver the required amount of oxygen for the patient. Some may also offer adjustability and the ability to switch between pulse or continuous flow modes.
Ease of Use: For older patients and those with different needs, POCs need to be simple to operate.
Warranty, Repair & Return Policy: As a large investment, patients need confidence that their POC will meet their needs for a long time. They also need to know they have support should anything malfunction.
Noise: Patients who need to use their POC at night or in public spaces may want a machine that’s quiet and discreet.
Selling the Benefits of POCs at Different Price Points
Communicating the benefits of different POCs doesn’t have to be complicated. Focusing on the features that matter to the user should help guide their decision and ensure they purchase a machine that gives them their life back.
Affordable POCs
Price point: $1,500-$2,500
Perfect for: People with low to moderate needs who value portability
Expected Features: Often pulse mode only, Lower oxygen flow rates (expressed as liters per minute/lpm), Small and lightweight designs, Simple operation, Shorter battery life (typically 2-4 hours)
Portable oxygen concentrators in this category are often the smallest and lightest. They usually offer pulse delivery with three to five different settings, and feature simple controls to keep costs down and make them easy to operate.
They’re ideal for people with temporary or low to moderate oxygen needs who want something simple and portable. While the shorter battery life may be a concern for some, the trade-off in weight and size makes these POCs a good choice for people who value the freedom they can provide for exercise, travel and day-to-day life.
In most cases, these can be carried over the shoulder with a strap or in a small backpack.
Mid-Range POCs
Price point: $2,500-$4,000
Perfect for: The majority; the best all-round choice in most cases
Expected Features: Often pulse mode only, Higher oxygen flow rates (lpm), Still portable but may be larger in size, May come with multiple batteries, May offer additional functionality, app connectivity or smart modes
These portable oxygen concentrators are typically the best choice for most people, providing an excellent balance between therapeutic benefits, portability and functionality.
Although they may be slightly larger than budget models, patients can still benefit from the freedom they provide, and the longer battery life offers even more flexibility. With these POCs, long-distance travel, active lifestyles and daily use are all handled with ease. While more expensive than budget models, they still represent excellent value.
At this price point, users can expect higher levels of oxygen delivery for more complex needs, more usage settings, larger-capacity (albeit heavier) batteries and smart modes that adapt to the user’s breathing. Some may also offer Bluetooth and app connectivity for changing settings and tracking data.
Feature-Packed POCs
Price point: $4,000+
Perfect for: People with complex needs or who prioritize functionality
Expected Features: Pulse and continuous flow modes, Highest oxygen flow rates (lpm), Still portable but may be larger in size, Super-quiet operation, Longest battery life (8+ hours), May come with multiple batteries, outlet power and charging options, Most functionality, including touch screen displays and app connectivity
At the top end of the scale, these POCs are for patients who are able to invest in their health, have complex medical needs or value premium features and build quality. In some cases, these may offer continuous flow as well as multiple pulse modes.
For patients with a prescription that requires continuous flow or who need features like maximum battery life and plenty of customization options, these POCs will be the ideal choice. High-capacity batteries can last for more than 12 hours, and replaceable sieve beds allow for simple home maintenance—something that patients with complex needs can prioritize. If a patient needs to use continuous flow mode, large batteries are a must-have.
Prioritizing Patient Needs
Budget is often the primary decision factor for most people, so that is often the best place to start when advising patients on POCs. However, they all offer variations in size, weight and functionality, so understanding a user’s specific requirements and lifestyle factors is also vital.
Patients value recommendations that prioritize their long-term needs while also catering to their budget, and as a care provider, you’re in a strong position to ensure they invest in the right product for them.
Inogen is a global medical technology company offering innovative respiratory products for use in the homecare setting. This content has undergone internal review to ensure clinical accuracy. Visit inogen.com.