Oxygen and Equipment

Oxygen and equipment benefits cover the cost of oxygen tanks, concentrators, and related respiratory equipment for individuals with chronic or temporary breathing difficulties. These devices are considered medically necessary when prescribed by a physician.

Health insurance plans usually reimburse a percentage of eligible costs, up to annual or lifetime limits. Some plans also cover replacement parts or accessories, such as tubing and masks, if listed as eligible expenses.

Example:

If your oxygen concentrator costs $1,200 and the plan covers 80 percent up to $1,000, the insurer reimburses $960 and you pay $240.

What to Watch For:

Pre-authorization and a physician’s prescription are typically required. Always verify frequency limits for replacement or rental equipment.

Related Terms

Occupational Class

Occupational class is the category assigned to an individual based on the type of work they perform and the level of risk associated with their job. Insurers use occupational classes to help determine eligibility, premium rates, and benefit levels for life, disability, and accident insurance. The classification reflects how likely a person is to experience injury, illness, or death related to their occupation.

Optional Benefit / Rider / Add-On

An optional benefit, also called a rider or add-on, is an additional feature that can be purchased to enhance your existing health, dental, life, or disability insurance plan. Optional benefits allow you to customize coverage by adding protection that suits your personal needs, rather than relying only on the base plan design.

Oral Surgery

Oral surgery refers to surgical procedures performed in or around the mouth and jaw by a licensed dentist, oral surgeon, or maxillofacial specialist. It includes both minor procedures, such as tooth extractions, and more complex surgeries involving the jawbone, soft tissue, or dental implants.

Orthodontics

Orthodontics covers the cost of correcting tooth alignment and jaw positioning using braces or aligners. In individual and group dental plans, orthodontic benefits are usually separate from preventive and restorative coverage. Most plans apply a lifetime maximum and a waiting period before orthodontic treatment is eligible.

Orthopedic Shoes / Custom Orthotics

Orthopedic shoes and custom orthotics are specialized footwear and inserts designed to support proper alignment, relieve pain, and improve mobility for individuals with foot, leg, or posture-related conditions. These items are often prescribed to correct biomechanical issues, provide additional cushioning, or accommodate deformities caused by medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or plantar fasciitis.

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