Frequently Asked Questions

What equipment does Air Products supply?

Air Products can supply a range of equipment depending on the needs of the patient:

The concentrator

Air Products can supply an oxygen concentrator that is permanently installed in a patient’s home and, when switched on, is able to ‘concentrate’ oxygen from the air for the patient to breathe it in through a facial mask or cannula.

The portable oxygen cylinder

Air Products also supplies standard and lightweight portable oxygen cylinders that contain medical oxygen.

They are designed to allow patients to take with them while they carry out their day to day lives.

The cylinders can also be fitted with a battery powered ‘conserver’ that can control the flow of oxygen from the cylinder and allow it to last longer.

Liquid oxygen

Air Products can also supply liquid oxygen equipment which comprises two main parts – a container or ‘dewar’ and a refillable portable unit. The dewar contains liquid oxygen which can be used by patients to fill their portable unit when they wish to leave the house.

What medical conditions do your patients have?

Air Products provides the NHS Home Oxygen Service to patients who suffer from lung disorders such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, cystic fibrosis and asthma.

What is the Home Oxygen Service designed to do?

The service is designed to improve the lives of patients with lung conditions by providing them with oxygen therapy in their homes. Portable cylinders allow patients to remain active and carry out day to day activities such as visiting the shops or friends.

How does a patient qualify for the Home Oxygen Service?

The Home Oxygen Service is provided free by the NHS. A patient must be prescribed oxygen by their GP or respiratory specialist in order to receive the service.

How do you communicate with your patients?

Air Products communicates regularly with patients via the visits the technicians make to their homes, by letter and via the Sunshine magazine, designed to give general lifestyle information, developments on the oxygen service and safety information. However, patients with any concerns are able to ring the Homecare Helpline 24 hours a day and, if necessary, arrange a visit from a technician.

How much training do your employees receive?

All of our technicians are fully trained in operating, installing and servicing Air Products home oxygen equipment. We also have a team of registered clinical nurse advisors assigned to each Air Products region to offer clinical support and education for healthcare professionals and Primary Care Trusts (PCTs).

What are Patient Forums?

Patient Forums are designed to allow patients in a region to come together and discuss the service they are receiving and provide feedback to Air Products representatives. We hold approximately 20 forums each year.

Contact

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0207 618 9160

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