Of the millions of oxygen users in the world, most have what we consider “traditional” set-ups that consist of a stationary oxygen concentrator with some gaseous tanks for when the person wants to leave her home. The major drawback with using traditional tanks is not that they run out, but that they need to be replaced when they do. Frequent visits from your oxygen provider mean you need to be home at specific times and only when they are in your area. Many people don’t realize that there are several other alternatives that can help them come and go as they please with UNLIMITED portable oxygen.
Alternative #1: Liquid Oxygen
Liquid oxygen is not a new technology, but one that not many people think is an option for them. Liquid oxygen is held in a stationary vessel in or around the home that is usually refilled only once a month. The user is given a small portable unit that can be refilled off of the stationary unit whenever they want! Going to the grocery store? Fill ‘er up! Going to the mall? Fill ‘er up! How about the park? You guessed it, just a few seconds and you have a full supply of portable oxygen for your trip and, best of all, the unit is much smaller than a tank and there are no carts to pull!
Alternative #2: Home Transfilling
Why do we use freezers now instead of ice boxes? It’s because we’d rather make our own ice than wait around for an ice truck to deliver it. The same concept can now be applied to oxygen. The technology exists where an oxygen patient can easily fill his own gaseous tanks right at home, over and over. Modern day electronics use rechargeable batteries because they are more convenient for people on the go. As an oxygen user on the go, why not have “rechargeable” tanks?
Alternative #3: Portable Oxygen Concentrator
Most oxygen users receive their therapy from a stationary oxygen concentrator, an electric appliance that converts room air which is 20% oxygen into pure oxygen (98% or more). It’s not feasible for them to take a stationary concentrator with them because it is big, heavy, and requires a power outlet so they use tanks when they need to leave the home. But what if you could shrink a concentrator and put high-tech rechargeable battery inside that could last for hours? Well you can! The industry has several options available that allows an oxygen patient to take a small electronic device with them wherever they go (even on an airplane!). Just charge it when you’re near a power source and go wireless when you’re not… just like a cell phone!
If you or someone you know is an oxygen patient who likes to see the world but “traditional” tanks are making it tough… ask your provider if they offer one of the alternatives above!
