Referrals
WHY A PRESCRIPTION REQUIRED
FOR OXYGEN THERAPY?
Oxygen therapy involves administering oxygen at concentrations higher than those found in ambient air, and it is considered a form of medical treatment. Therefore, it requires a prescription from a licensed healthcare professional for several important reasons:
Medical Diagnosis
Oxygen therapy is typically recommended for individuals with certain medical conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), cystic fibrosis, sleep apnea, or other respiratory or heart diseases that cause low oxygen levels in the blood. A healthcare professional will diagnose these conditions based on clinical evaluations and tests.
Determining Oxygen Concentration
The amount of oxygen a patient needs – known as the flow rate – varies depending on their medical condition, and sometimes even depending on the time of day or specific activities. Too much or too little oxygen can lead to serious health complications. Therefore, it is essential that a Respiratory or suitably qualified Physician determine the correct oxygen concentration for each individual.
Monitoring and Adjusting Treatment
Oxygen therapy often requires ongoing monitoring and adjustment. Regular check-ups with your Respiratory Physician and Oxygen West team ensure the therapy is effective and that adjustments can be made as the patient’s condition changes.
Regulation and Safety
Medical-grade oxygen and the devices that deliver it, like oxygen concentrators, are regulated by health authorities such as the FDA in the United States and the TGA in Australia. These agencies require a prescription to ensure the safe and effective use of these medical devices.
Insurance
Some insurance companies may contribute to or cover the cost of oxygen therapy but generally only if a prescription is provided.
At Oxygen West, we adhere to these regulations to ensure the health and safety of our clients. We work in close conjunction with healthcare providers to facilitate the prescription process and ensure our clients receive the most effective and appropriate oxygen therapy.
