Oxygen Certification/Recertification

Do you have symptoms of low blood oxygen levels and need oxygen therapy? At Midwest Respiratory, Ltd. in Joliet and New Lenox, Illinois, the board-certified pulmonologists provide oxygen certification/recertification exams, which are necessary before home oxygen therapy use. Schedule an evaluation at Midwest Respiratory, Ltd. by phone or request one online today to get started.

What is an oxygen certification/recertification exam?

An oxygen certification/recertification exam at Midwest Respiratory, Ltd. is a medical exam needed in order to receive home oxygen therapy (supplemental oxygen), a treatment in which you use home oxygen equipment to breathe in more oxygen and increase blood oxygen levels. Insurance claims for oxygen therapy must have documentation of a medical need.

Is an oxygen certification/recertification exam right for me?

You could be a candidate for oxygen therapy if you have low oxygen (hypoxemia) in your body due to one or more of the following lung conditions:

• Cystic fibrosis
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
• Pulmonary hypertension 
• Recurring congestive heart failure
• Diffuse interstitial lung disease
• Bronchiectasis
• Sarcoidosis
• Cancer
• Lung infections

Symptoms of such conditions or hypoxemia include shortness of breath, a rapid heart rate, confusion or other cognitive changes, wheezing, restlessness while sleeping, and morning headaches.

Depending on your condition and lifestyle, you might be a candidate for oxygen treatment for short periods throughout the day or during physical activity. Some people require oxygen therapy for longer periods during the day or at night. 

What should I expect during oxygen certification/recertification exams?

During oxygen certification/recertification assessments, your Midwest Respiratory, Ltd. provider discusses your medical history, symptoms, lifestyle, medications, and goals. They check your vital signs, complete a physical exam, listen to your heart rate and breathing, measure the amount of oxygen in your blood, and may complete lung function tests.

During spirometry, your provider measures the total amount of air you breathe out and how fast you’re able to exhale. Pulse oximetry is a test that detects oxygen levels using a sensor attached to your finger. You may also complete tests that involve walking on a treadmill.

If the test results show low blood oxygen levels, you may be a candidate for oxygen therapy. 

Your provider determines how much oxygen you need during home therapy. They complete the documentation needed for insurance, if you have health insurance, to help cover the costs of oxygen therapy. Your pulmonologist explains how your treatment works and reviews the safety aspects of oxygen use. 

Schedule an oxygen certification/recertification exam at Midwest Respiratory, Ltd. by phone or request one online today.