Key takeaways
- E1390 is the HCPCS code for an oxygen concentrator. Medicare pays for oxygen equipment as a monthly rental.
- Coverage depends on qualifying test results, a valid order and the right documentation for the patient’s group.
- Oxygen has its own rental period and rules for what happens when it ends, so track each patient from the first month.
- Most oxygen denials trace to missing or out-of-window test results, not to coding.
What E1390 covers
E1390 is the code for a stationary oxygen concentrator. Portable systems have their own codes, for example E0431 for portable gaseous oxygen and E1392 for a portable concentrator. Oxygen contents (gas or liquid) are billed with separate codes. Medicare pays for oxygen equipment as a monthly rental that covers the equipment and related services.
The summary is general. The exact criteria are in the contractors’ policy for home oxygen, so confirm the current version before billing.
The documentation oxygen claims need
| Item | What to have |
|---|---|
| Qualifying test | An arterial blood gas or oxygen saturation test that meets the policy’s levels, done within the time window the policy sets |
| Test conditions | Whether the test was taken at rest, during sleep or on exertion, and under what conditions |
| Order | A written order with the prescribed flow rate and how long and when oxygen is used |
| Medical record | Notes showing the condition and that other treatment was considered |
| Delivery | Proof of delivery and setup, with the patient or caregiver’s signature |
| Follow-up | Retesting or re-evaluation when the policy requires it for the patient’s group |
Rental period and what comes after
Oxygen equipment is rented for a set number of months. When the rental period ends, the supplier generally has to keep providing the equipment and service for the patient’s continued need for a further period, and certain payments continue for contents and maintenance. The details are in the policy. Track the rental month for every oxygen patient so you know when each stage begins and ends.
Stationary and portable systems
A patient who needs oxygen away from home may qualify for a portable system in addition to the stationary one. The portable system must be medically justified in the record. Billing for both without support is a common reason for review. Check how the policy treats each combination before billing.
Common oxygen billing mistakes
- Test results outside the allowed window, or taken under conditions that do not qualify.
- An order that leaves out the flow rate or usage.
- No retest when the policy requires one.
- Missed rental months, or no tracking when the rental period ends.
- Billing portable equipment without documented need.
Our DME billing services check these items before claims go out.
Oxygen billing FAQ
What does E1390 mean?
E1390 is the HCPCS code for an oxygen concentrator, which is stationary equipment used to provide home oxygen.
Does Medicare pay for oxygen as a rental?
Medicare generally pays for oxygen equipment as a monthly rental. Check the policy for the exact period and what happens after it ends.
What test results qualify a patient for home oxygen?
The policy sets blood gas or oxygen saturation levels and the conditions under which the test must be taken. Always confirm the current criteria.
Do oxygen patients need retesting?
Some patient groups do, at intervals set by the policy. Missing a required retest can lead to denial.
Can you bill portable oxygen with a stationary concentrator?
Yes, when the patient’s need for portable oxygen is documented and meets the policy. Without support, the claim may be denied or reviewed.