For certain chronic lung conditions where insufficient oxygen is absorbed, it may be necessary to administer supplemental oxygen. Chronic oxygen therapy can offer a solution. 

Reimbursement for oxygen administration at home requires an application from the consulting physician with the mutual health fund. An application can be submitted under certain conditions, which are determined by the NIHDI. 

During a consultation or an admission, the following prior examinations may occur:

  • Blood gas measurement
  • 6 minute walking test (with and/or without oxygen)
  • Pulmonary function test
  • Cardiac ultrasound
  • Saturation measurement

Based on these preliminary tests, the appropriate values will be set for you.

It is important that you follow the medical prescription carefully. Oxygen is not addictive, but if you use too little or too much oxygen, it can cause serious problems. The number of liters of oxygen per minute (flow rate) should therefore only be increased or decreased following the advice of your physician.

Also, follow the safety instructions you will be given when using oxygen. Oxygen is flammable and it can therefore create a fire hazard in certain situations.

Smoking is not allowed. In addition to the safety risks associated with oxygen use, smoking is also a reason to not to grant reimbursement for your oxygen therapy.

 

There are several methods of oxygen administration, depending on the regulations that apply to you.

  • The fixed concentrator is an electrical device that generates oxygen from the ambient air. With the filling compressor connected to the oxygen concentrator you can fill your own gas bottles with oxygen at home. This provides you with an oxygen supply at home. The bottles are a useful tool for people who need oxygen 24 hours a day and can easily go outside with oxygen. 
  • Portable oxygen concentrators. A portable oxygen concentrator is a small device that generates oxygen from ambient air. Thanks to its battery, this device allows you to go outdoors for longer periods of time. However, this therapy is not suited to every patient. In the event of nighttime oxygen shortages, or excessively high flow rates, this unit does not generate enough oxygen.
  • Liquid oxygen

If you need high oxygen flow rates, and a concentrator is not an ideal option therefore, liquid oxygen can be prescribed. This liquid oxygen will be delivered to your home every week by an outside company (larger tank of liquid oxygen and small portable containers, which you can fill yourself at home from the larger tank).

The health insurance fund will cover the cost of treatment using a chronic oxygen therapy device (third-party payer scheme). You do not pay anything yourself (no own contribution). Depending on the type of device and application, you may be charged a small fee for the use of electricity.

For consultations with the physician, you do have to pay a personal share each time.

The conditions you have to meet show that a hospital stay may be required in some cases to perform the required tests. You will have to pay the usual costs associated with your hospital stay in that case.

Travelling while on chronic oxygen therapy

Do you wish to go on a trip (by car or plane)? Always consult with your pulmonologist first. He/she will advise you on the possibilities and the necessary preparations and safety precautions. A good planning is always necessary.

  • Contact your pulmonologist 2 months before your departure to book an appointment. Sometimes additional tests are needed.
  • Contact your health insurance fund at least 1 month before your departure and (if applicable) also contact the airline/tour operator.

You can always contact us with questions about going on a trip with oxygen. You can reach us (social worker) at 02 257 54 61.