Patient Guide

Clear, practical information to help you understand your oxygen equipment, prepare your order, and know what happens next.

Before you order a portable oxygen concentrator

A prescription is required. You may place your order and submit your prescription during checkout. If you do not have the prescription ready, your order will remain under review. Americare will review the prescription and release your order after the required information is received and accepted.

Please make sure the document is readable and includes the prescriber’s instructions for the oxygen equipment and settings being ordered. If information is missing or unclear, we may need to contact you before we can release your order.

Browse portable oxygen concentrators

Choosing an oxygen device with your prescriber

Oxygen is prescribed care. The right equipment and settings depend on the instructions from your healthcare provider. Before ordering, confirm that the specific device can provide the delivery type and settings written in your prescription.

  • Pulse-dose delivery gives oxygen in pulses triggered by breathing. A device’s pulse setting numbers are not the same as liters per minute (LPM).
  • Continuous-flow delivery provides a steady flow measured in LPM.

These delivery types are not interchangeable for every person or situation. Ask your prescriber to confirm the exact device and settings for your needs, including activity and sleep if those are part of your prescribed use. Do not change your prescribed setting or substitute a device based on this page.

Before using your equipment

  • Read the user manual for your exact make and model before use.
  • Follow the prescriber’s instructions and the manufacturer’s safety directions.
  • Keep oxygen equipment away from smoking, open flames, sparks, and heat sources.
  • For battery-powered equipment, review the manual for charging, runtime, and travel guidance.

Traveling with a portable oxygen concentrator

Airline requirements vary. Contact your airline before travel to confirm that your exact device is accepted and to learn its battery and documentation rules. The FAA publishes information about portable oxygen concentrators and air travel.

Read the FAA’s portable oxygen concentrator information

What happens after checkout?

  1. Order received / under review: We receive your order and check the required prescription information.
  2. Order released: Once the prescription is received and accepted, we release your order for fulfillment.
  3. Tracking provided: After the order ships, tracking information is made available through the order updates.

If we need a clearer or corrected document, we will contact you before releasing your order.

Payment and insurance

Americare is a cash-pay retailer. We do not bill Medicare or other insurance for purchases made through this store. Please contact your insurer directly if you have questions about possible reimbursement.

Need help?

Call Americare at (757) 470-5661 before ordering if you need help checking a device’s published specifications against the settings written on your prescription. For medical advice or help deciding what oxygen settings are right for you, contact your prescriber.

Visit our frequently asked questions

This guide is for general product and order information. It does not provide medical advice and does not replace instructions from your healthcare provider or the device manufacturer.