HHZ Respiratory Review

Replacing CPAP or oxygen after a disaster (2026)

1 min read By HHZ Editorial Next review

If Original Medicare already paid for your CPAP, oxygen equipment or supplies and they're lost or damaged in an emergency or disaster, Medicare.gov says it will cover repair or replacement in most cases, but only from a Medicare-approved supplier. It usually covers rentals while equipment is repaired. Medicare Advantage members should call their plan. Rules may change temporarily in declared disaster areas. Source: Medicare.gov, checked 14 October 2026.

Sources: Medicare.gov Disasters and emergencies and DME coverage, checked 14 October 2026.

Original Medicare vs Medicare Advantage

SituationOriginal MedicareMedicare Advantage
Equipment Medicare paid for is lost or damagedRepair or replacement covered in most casesContact your plan
Where to get itMedicare-approved supplier onlyPlan’s rules
While equipment is repairedRentals usually covered (Medicare.gov’s example: wheelchairs)Contact your plan
Declared disaster areaUsual rules may change for a short timeContact your plan

Steps after a storm

  1. If equipment got wet, don’t plug it in or touch it while you’re standing in water (Ready.gov hurricanes).
  2. Call your supplier: describe the damage and ask about a loaner.
  3. Photograph the damage, as Ready.gov advises for property damage.
  4. Ask your doctor for any new paperwork the supplier needs.
  5. Watch your Medicare Summary Notice and appeal if a replacement claim is denied.

Verdict

Plan ahead with your supplier, but if the worst happens, Original Medicare usually covers replacement of equipment it already paid for. Use a Medicare-approved supplier.

Related: hurricane plans for Miami, Houston, Tampa and New Orleans; power outage plan.

Frequently asked questions

Will Medicare replace my CPAP or oxygen concentrator lost in a hurricane?
Medicare.gov says that in most cases, if Original Medicare already paid for DME that was lost or damaged in an emergency or disaster, it will cover repair or replacement, but only from a Medicare-approved supplier.
What if I have Medicare Advantage?
Contact your plan directly to find out how it replaces DME or supplies lost or damaged in a disaster; the number is usually on your membership card.
Can I get a loaner while my equipment is repaired?
Medicare.gov says that when equipment needs repair, Medicare will usually cover rentals for items like wheelchairs. Ask your supplier about a temporary CPAP or concentrator.
Do the usual rules change in a declared disaster?
Medicare.gov says the usual rules for your medical care may change for a short time if you live in an area declared a disaster or emergency.
Who should I call first?
Your DME supplier, then 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or your plan.

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How Medicare Savings Programs (QMB, SLMB, QI) affect what you pay for CPAP, oxygen and other DME in 2026: income and resource limits, QMB billing protection and what to show your supplier. From Medicare.gov.

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How Medigap Plans A to N handle Part B costs for CPAP, oxygen and other DME in 2026: 20% coinsurance, the $283 Part B deductible, excess charges, Plan K and L limits, and why supplier assignment matters. From Medicare.gov.

Medicare Advantage vs Original Medicare for DME

How Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage differ for durable medical equipment like CPAP and home oxygen: suppliers, prior authorization, costs, out-of-pocket limits, Medigap and travel, from Medicare.gov and CMS.