Home Oxygen
Oxygen Therapy
Ontario Home Health’s commitment is to deliver outstanding care to our clients who use Home Oxygen. Through our team of trained professionals, we strive to enhance the lives of individuals with respiratory conditions through clinical expertise, education, teamwork, and a personalized approach. As your healthcare partner, we are available 24/7/365 to offer peace of mind. When you become an Ontario Home Health client, a Respiratory Therapist will visit your home, set up your equipment, and provide comprehensive support and education for successful therapy. We collaborate with you and your doctor to create a solution to fit your needs, enabling you to breathe more comfortably.
About Home Oxygen Therapy
Home Oxygen therapy is a treatment aimed at increasing blood oxygen levels for those who have lower than normal levels. This therapy enriches the air that a person breathes with additional Oxygen, allowing more of it to enter the bloodstream and reach the body’s tissues. Adequate oxygen in a person’s blood is crucial for cells to function effectively and for overall well-being.
Oxygen therapy is typically prescribed for individuals whose blood Oxygen levels are low and who require more oxygen than what the ambient air provides. This condition is often seen in chronic respiratory diseases, such as:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) – A persistent condition affecting the lungs.
- Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) – A group of disorders characterized by inflammation and scarring of lung tissue. Severe,
- Persistent Asthma – A long-term form of asthma with significant impact.
- Pulmonary Hypertension – A condition where high pressure in the lung arteries adversely affects the heart’s right side.
- Cystic Fibrosis – A genetic disorder leading to thick, sticky mucus build-up in the lungs.
- Heart Failure – A condition where the heart cannot adequately circulate blood throughout the body.
- Neuromuscular Disorders – Conditions that influence the respiratory mechanics.
In Ontario, only authorized prescribers, such as respirologists, family physicians, pediatricians, neurologists, or cardiologists, can prescribe home oxygen therapy. Oxygen should be treated as a medication and used strictly according to your doctor’s prescription.
Home Oxygen has numerous benefits for those who need it. It can significantly improve well-being and potentially extend a person’s lifespan. The advantages of Oxygen therapy include:
- Enhanced quality of life and potential for longer life
- Reduction in shortness of breath
- Better sleep patterns and mood
- Improved brain function and mental alertness.
- Reduced strain on the heart;
- Boosted health and stamina for daily activities.
- Fewer hospital visits;
- Support in managing late-stage and end-stage illnesses.
Ontario Home Health is here to support you through every stage of the journey with your Home Oxygen Therapy.
COPD
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, commonly known as COPD affects nearly 2 million Canadians. It is a progressive lung disease that causes difficulty in breathing. It typically involves two main conditions: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Emphysema gradually damages the air sacs in the lungs, making the person progressively short of breath, while chronic bronchitis causes inflammation and narrowing of the bronchial tubes, leading to mucus build-up and wheezing.
Symptoms of COPD:
- Persistent cough with mucus
- Shortness of breath, especially during physical activities
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
COPD is often caused by long-term exposure to irritants that damage the lungs and airways. The most common irritant is cigarette smoke, but air pollution, chemical fumes, or dust can also contribute.
For individuals with COPD, maintaining the right amount of Oxygen in the blood is crucial but challenging. When COPD progresses, it can lead to a decrease in blood oxygen levels, a condition known as hypoxemia. This is where Home Oxygen Therapy can be beneficial.
Living with COPD and using home Oxygen therapy requires adjustments but can lead to a significantly improved quality of life. It’s essential to follow the prescribed Oxygen therapy regimen strictly and maintain regular check-ups with a respiratory therapist and physician. Ontario Home Health’s team of Respiratory Therapists and Home Oxygen professionals are here to assist and provide a high standard of care for individuals facing challenges with COPD.
Client Centric Care
Our core commitments through our Home Oxygen Program include:
- Prioritizing clients as the central focus of our efforts.
- Providing care that aligns with client requirements and expectations.
- Assisting in maximizing client independence.
- Respecting client preferences by involving them in the planning of care.
Our Respiratory Therapists and professional team collaborate with you and your healthcare providers to formulate a Home Oxygen Therapy care plan, taking into account:
- Your specific requirements and expectations.
- Your doctor’s directives.
- Your doctor’s objectives for your care.
We honour the asks and requirements communicated by you and your family. Throughout the development of your care plan, our professionals schedule regular visits to:
- Conduct clinical assessments.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of your Home Oxygen therapy.
- Establish care goals.
- Assess your progress toward goals.
- Provide support.
- Adjust your care plan to accommodate evolving needs.
Your Ontario Home Health respiratory team will share a copy of your care plan with your doctor and guide you in selecting the respiratory equipment tailored to your requirements. They will provide a comprehensive demonstration and instructions on the proper use and maintenance of the equipment provided.
We provide 24/7/365 emergency Home Oxygen services.
Therapy Equipment
Ontario Home Health’s professional Home Oxygen team is here to ensure that the client has the equipment that suits their needs and works with them at every step so they can confidently use new equipment. The types of equipment used in Home Oxygen Therapy include:
Stationary Oxygen Concentrators
Transfill Oxygen Systems (Home fill)
Transfill (Homefill) Oxygen Systems are a type of oxygen concentrator that has the added capability of refilling small, portable cylinders. Oxygen cylinders, which store oxygen in compressed gas form, offer the flexibility of use in various locations. It’s essential to have an oxygen cylinder as a backup, especially in case of power outages. These cylinders can also be used while traveling short distances to maintain Oxygen needs.
Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC)
Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POC) are compact devices designed to extract and concentrate oxygen from ambient air while out of the home. The smaller portable design, coupled with rechargeable batteries, allows its use while traveling. Typically, the Oxygen output of portable units is lower, making them best suited for temporary use when away from home. These units are only provided if they meet the clinical needs of the user and are often provided temporarily.
Oxygen Cylinders
Oxygen Cylinders are containers filled with oxygen in its compressed gas form. They come in various sizes to accommodate different lifestyles and requirements. For in-home use, larger tanks are available if necessary, while smaller tanks are more suitable for outdoor activities or travel. These oxygen tanks can be used in almost any setting. These can be used with Oxygen Conserving devices to control the flow and make the cylinder last longer.
Oxygen Accessories
Some common Oxygen accessories used include: nasal cannulas, masks, replacement tubing, humidifiers, and a wide range of specialty products as required. Ontario Home Health carries all Oxygen accessories needed for successful therapy.
Oxygen Safety
Ontario Home Health is committed to awareness of the safe use of oxygen at home. To keep safety a priority, we highlight and prioritize the following:
- Safety Orientations
- Equipment Maintenance Guidance
- Home Environment Assessment
- Safety Plans
General Safety
- NEVER smoke or vape when Oxygen is being used! This includes cigarettes, cigars, pipes, cannabis and electronic cigarettes or vaping.
- Keep oxygen equipment away from anything that can easily ignite or catch fire, like lighters, aerosol sprays, candles, and open flames.
- Keep oxygen tubes away from electric outlets.
- Keep oxygen in a well-ventilated place with good airflow.
- Keep the oxygen flow rate as adjusted by the healthcare provider.
- Never adjust that without a supervisor.
- Never try to repair or fix the equipment yourself. Contact Ontario Home Health
Ontario Home Health encourages Oxygen users to quit smoking. However, if this isn’t possible, the following three life-saving steps must be taken before smoking or vaping:
- Always turn off the oxygen supply;
- Always remove the nasal cannula; and,
- Always leave the room.
- Others who wish to smoke around oxygen users must leave the rooms where the oxygen supply is located or being used. Always hang a “No Smoking” sign where oxygen is being used.
Travelling
Travelling while on Home Oxygen is possible, offering a sense of freedom and independence. Careful planning, medical guidance, and selecting the right Oxygen equipment are key to a worry-free journey, whether it’s a short trip to a neighbouring town or an international adventure. Our team is committed to assisting in organizing Oxygen needs for the trip. To ensure a smooth journey:
- Consult with an Ontario Home Health professional as far in advance as possible prior to travelling
- Ensure access to medical services at the destination.
- Secure travel health insurance
- Carry a copy of the Oxygen prescription.
- Make arrangements in advance with an Oxygen supplier at the destination.
Remember, following all general oxygen safety guidelines while travelling is crucial to ensure safety and well-being.
Travel by Car
Follow the safety procedures for travel by car, bus, or any vehicle.
- Maintain the vehicle’s air temperature under 51 degrees Celsius.
- Check equipment for leakage and battery power before travelling.
- Keep the oxygen system in a safe position always.
- Do not store oxygen systems in the trunk of the vehicle.
- Keep the oxygen cylinder away from smoke or flammable substances.
- When the vehicle is idle, keep it well-ventilated.
Travel by Plane
Travel by Train
Rules and restrictions may vary according to the train carrier. Contact the railway before making the reservations.
Funding
We are here to help with obtaining funding through the Ontario Ministry of Health Home Oxygen Program. Residents of Ontario must have a valid Ontario health card and a prescription for Oxygen therapy.
Ontario Home Health is a registered vendor of the Home Oxygen Program. On behalf of the client, we work with the prescribing physician on the application filling and submission process. We directly send the invoice to the Home Oxygen Program upon approval.
Through consistent monitoring of the user’s condition and therapy effectiveness, we are able to renew funding as needed if continued Oxygen therapy is required.
Patients who meet the physiological criteria defined by the Ministry of Health are funded as follows:
Those who are 65 years or older
Those who are 64 years or younger receive any of the following benefits:
- Ontario Works;
- A resident of a long-term care home.
- Assistance to Children with Severe Disabilities;
- Ontario Disability Support Program; or
- Professional services through a Local Health Integration Network (LHIN).
64 years or younger and not receiving any of the above benefits. The remaining 25% is the client’s responsibility
For clients who are not eligible for funding, Ontario Home Health offers Home Oxygen products and services at competitive market rates. Additionally, there may be opportunities to receive funding for oxygen therapy through private insurance plans. Contact Ontario Home Health for more details on the application process.
Physician Oxygen Referrals
Ontario Home Health places the highest priority on patient needs. Our commitment is to deliver top-notch Respiratory care that centres on the patient’s comfort.
We provide same-day set-up of oxygen therapy, equipping your patients with all the essential knowledge and confidence they need for effective and safe therapy management. Our team of Registered Respiratory Therapists is not only well-versed in chronic disease management but also skilled in empowering patients with self-management techniques that enhance their quality of life.
Additionally, our team is proficient in palliative and end-of-life care, providing compassionate, culturally sensitive care that prioritizes comfort. For referrals, please use the prescription form below. Once you have completed the form, it can be faxed directly to us at 1-866-388-7681.
In case of after-hours requirements (Outside of 9 am-5 pm), our on-call team can be reached at 1-800-661-1912. We guarantee same-day service for initiating oxygen therapy for your clients.
Oxygen Therapy FAQ
Oxygen Therapy is a treatment that supplies you with Oxygen to aid breathing and increase oxygen intake. This treatment can be carried out either in a hospital or at home.
An Ontario Home Health consultant can assist you in scheduling a trial on specific equipment, as available. It may not be the exact same device that will be delivered, but you can try it out on an equivalent to the prescribed device.
An Ontario Home Health consultant can assist you in scheduling a trial on specific equipment, as available. It may not be the exact same device that will be delivered, but you can try it out on an equivalent to the prescribed device.
An Ontario Home Health consultant can assist you in scheduling a trial on specific equipment, as available. It may not be the exact same device that will be delivered, but you can try it out on an equivalent to the prescribed device.
An Ontario Home Health consultant can assist you in scheduling a trial on specific equipment, as available. It may not be the exact same device that will be delivered, but you can try it out on an equivalent to the prescribed device.
An Ontario Home Health consultant can assist you in scheduling a trial on specific equipment, as available. It may not be the exact same device that will be delivered, but you can try it out on an equivalent to the prescribed device.
An Ontario Home Health consultant can assist you in scheduling a trial on specific equipment, as available. It may not be the exact same device that will be delivered, but you can try it out on an equivalent to the prescribed device.
An Ontario Home Health consultant can assist you in scheduling a trial on specific equipment, as available. It may not be the exact same device that will be delivered, but you can try it out on an equivalent to the prescribed device.
