Chicago O'Hare Airport Medical Device Services: Complete Guide 2025

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the world's busiest airports, serving over 83 million passengers annually. For travelers with medical devices like portable oxygen concentrators (POCs), CPAPs, wheelchairs, or other essential equipment, navigating this massive hub requires preparation. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need for smooth, stress-free travel through O'Hare.

O'Hare Airport Overview for Medical Device Travelers

Airport Layout:

• 4 Passenger Terminals: Terminals 1, 2, 3, 5 (Terminal 4 closed)
• 189 Gates across all terminals
• Airport Transit System (ATS): Automated train connecting all terminals
• International Arrivals: Terminal 5 (some international flights at Terminal 1, 3)

Average Security Wait Times:

• Peak Hours (5-9 AM, 3-7 PM): 20-45 minutes
• Off-Peak: 10-20 minutes
• TSA PreCheck: 5-10 minutes (available in all terminals)

Medical Device Traveler Recommendations:

• Arrive 3 hours early for domestic flights
• Arrive 4 hours early for international flights
• Extra time accounts for medical device screening and terminal size

Terminal-by-Terminal Medical Services Guide

Terminal 1 (United Airlines Domestic)

Gates: B1-B30, C1-C34 Major Airlines: United Express, Air Choice One

TSA Screening:

• Main Checkpoint: Near baggage claim (busiest)
• Checkpoint 2: Upper level (often less crowded)
• TSA PreCheck: Available at both checkpoints

Medical Device Charging Stations:

• Concourse B: Charging stations at gates B5, B15, B25
• Concourse C: Charging stations at gates C10, C20, C30
• Power Outlets: Standard 110V outlets at most gate seating areas

Wheelchair Accessibility:

• Elevators: Located near security checkpoints and all gate areas
• Accessible Restrooms: Every 5-6 gates on both concourses
• Moving Walkways: Throughout concourses (wheelchairs allowed)

Medical Services:

• First Aid Station: Concourse B, near Gate B18
• AED Locations: Every gate cluster (approximately every 10 gates)
• United Airlines Special Assistance: Near Gate C20

Distance Between Gates:

• B to C concourse: 8-12 minute walk (ATS train not needed)
• Longest walk (B1 to C34): 20 minutes

Terminal 2 (Delta Air Lines, International)

Gates: E1-E14, F1-F14 Major Airlines: Delta, Air France (Terminal 2 International)

TSA Screening:

• Main Checkpoint: Lower level, near baggage claim
• TSA PreCheck: Available

Medical Device Charging Stations:

• Concourse E: Gates E4, E10, E14
• Concourse F: Gates F5, F12
• Power Outlets: Limited; charging stations recommended

Wheelchair Accessibility:

• Elevators: Near security and at mid-concourse locations
• Accessible Restrooms: Concourses E and F (every 5 gates)
• Delta Wheelchair Services: Near Gate E8

Medical Services:

• First Aid Station: Concourse E, near Gate E10
• AED Locations: Gates E7, F7

Distance Between Gates:

• E to F concourse: 5-8 minute walk
• Longest walk (E1 to F14): 15 minutes

International Arrivals (Terminal 2):

• Customs/Immigration: Lower level
• Medical device declaration: Usually not required, but bring prescriptions
• Accessible customs lanes: Available upon request

Terminal 3 (American Airlines, International)

Gates: G1-G23, H1-H22, K1-K19, L1-L13 Major Airlines: American Airlines, Spirit, Alaska, international carriers

TSA Screening:

• Main Checkpoint: Lower level (largest at O'Hare)
• Upper Level Checkpoint: Near American Airlines check-in
• TSA PreCheck: Available at both checkpoints

Medical Device Charging Stations:

• Concourse G: Gates G5, G12, G20
• Concourse H: Gates H8, H15, H22
• Concourse K: Gates K7, K14
• Concourse L: Gates L5, L10
• Most comprehensive charging at O'Hare

Wheelchair Accessibility:

• Elevators: Every concourse junction
• Accessible Restrooms: Every concourse (every 5-6 gates)
• American Airlines Wheelchair Services: Near Gate H10
• Moving Walkways: Concourse H, K (long distances)

Medical Services:

• First Aid Station: Concourse H, near Gate H12 (largest station at O'Hare)
• AED Locations: Every gate cluster
• American Airlines Special Assistance Desk: Gate H8

Distance Between Gates:

• Concourse G to H: 6-10 minutes via ATS train
• Concourse K to L: 10-15 minute walk
• Longest walk (G1 to L13): 25-30 minutes (use ATS train)

International Arrivals (Terminal 3):

• Customs/Immigration: Lower level
• Medical device-friendly customs: Accessible lanes available

Terminal 5 (International)

Gates: M1-M29 Major Airlines: International carriers (British Airways, Lufthansa, Emirates, ANA, etc.)

TSA Screening (For U.S.-originating flights):

• Main Checkpoint: Lower level
• TSA PreCheck: Available

Medical Device Charging Stations:

• Concourse M: Gates M5, M12, M18, M25
• Most modern terminal: Power outlets abundant at all gates

Wheelchair Accessibility:

• Elevators: Multiple locations throughout terminal
• Accessible Restrooms: Every 4-5 gates (most accessible terminal)
• International Wheelchair Services: Near Gate M15
• Moving Walkways: Entire concourse

Medical Services:

• First Aid Station: Concourse M, near Gate M18
• AED Locations: Every gate cluster
• International Medical Assistance Desk: Near customs exit

Distance Between Gates:

• Longest walk (M1 to M29): 15-18 minutes

International Arrivals (Terminal 5):

• U.S. Customs/Immigration: Most international flights
• Medical device declaration: Bring prescriptions and doctor's letters
• Customs wait times: 30-90 minutes (peak times)

Unique Features for Medical Travelers:

• Nursing Rooms: Two locations (near M10, M20)
• Pet Relief Areas: Outdoor access near Gate M25
• International Pharmacies: Duty-free pharmacy near M12

TSA Screening for Medical Devices at O'Hare

Pre-Screening Preparation

Arrive at Checkpoint Prepared:

• Have physician's letter and prescriptions in hand
• Medical devices easily accessible (top of bag)
• Batteries clearly labeled with watt-hour ratings
• Medications in original prescription packaging

Checkpoint Selection Strategy

Fastest TSA Screening at O'Hare:

1. Terminal 3, Upper Level Checkpoint (least crowded)
2. Terminal 1, Checkpoint 2 (often overlooked by travelers)
3. Terminal 5 Checkpoint (efficient, modern equipment)

Avoid if possible:

• Terminal 3 Lower Level (highest volume)
• Terminal 1 Main Checkpoint (morning rush 5-9 AM)

Device-Specific Screening Procedures

Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs):

• Remove from bag for X-ray screening
• Show FAA compliance label to TSA officer
• Explosive trace detection swabbing standard
• Time estimate: 5-8 minutes

CPAP Machines:

• X-ray screening safe for CPAP devices
• Empty humidifier chamber completely before security
• Keep distilled water bottles under 3.4 oz (or declare larger bottles)
• Time estimate: 3-5 minutes

Wheelchairs and Mobility Devices:

• Battery inspection required (spillable vs. non-spillable)
• May need to transfer to airport wheelchair for screening
• TSA officers may swab wheelchair extensively
• Time estimate: 15-25 minutes
• Request supervisor if uncomfortable transferring from wheelchair

Insulin Pumps and CGMs:

• Opt for pat-down instead of body scanner
• Inform TSA officer before screening
• Keep pump/CGM attached (do not disconnect)
• Time estimate: 6-10 minutes

TSA Cares at O'Hare

O'Hare offers TSA Cares assistance for travelers with medical devices.

How to Request:

• Call TSA Cares: 1-855-787-2227 (72 hours before flight)
• Email: TSA-ContactCenter@tsa.dhs.gov
• Provide flight details and medical device information

What TSA Cares Provides:

• Passenger support specialist meets you at checkpoint
• Guides you through screening process
• Assists with medical device documentation
• Coordinates with TSA officers for smooth screening

Airport Transit System (ATS) for Medical Travelers

O'Hare's ATS Train:

• Automated train connecting Terminals 1, 2, 3, 5
• Free to use (airside and landside stations)
• Runs 24/7 (every 3-5 minutes)

Accessibility:

• Fully wheelchair accessible
• Priority seating for passengers with disabilities
• Audio and visual announcements at every station

Medical Device Considerations:

• POCs and CPAPs safe on ATS (no special restrictions)
• Wheelchairs: Designated wheelchair areas in each car
• Travel time: 5-10 minutes between any two terminals

When to Use ATS:

• Terminal 1 ↔ Terminal 3: Fastest option (8 minutes vs. 20+ minute walk)
• Terminal 3 ↔ Terminal 5: Required (no walking connection)
• Terminal 2 ↔ Any other terminal: Highly recommended

Charging Stations and Power Access

POC Battery Charging at O'Hare

Can I charge my POC battery at the airport?

Yes, but with limitations.

Charging Station Locations by Terminal:

Terminal 1:

• Concourse B: Gates B5, B15, B25
• Concourse C: Gates C10, C20, C30

Terminal 2:

• Limited charging; use power outlets at gates

Terminal 3 (Best for charging):

• Concourse G: Gates G5, G12, G20
• Concourse H: Gates H8, H15, H22
• Concourse K: Gates K7, K14
• Concourse L: Gates L5, L10

Terminal 5:

• Concourse M: Gates M5, M12, M18, M25 (most modern outlets)

Charging Tips:

• Bring universal charger compatible with 110V outlets
• Charge times: 2-4 hours for most POC batteries
• Arrive extra early if you need to charge before flight
• Some charging stations have USB-only ports (not suitable for POCs)

CPAP and Device Charging

• Standard 110V outlets available at most gates
• Bring power cord and charging adapter
• Consider portable power bank for quick charges

Wheelchair and Mobility Services

Requesting Wheelchair Assistance

How to Request:

When Booking Flight:

• Inform airline of wheelchair needs
• Specify type: manual wheelchair, electric wheelchair, walker, cane
• Provide battery specifications for power wheelchairs

At Airport:

• Contact airline check-in desk upon arrival
• Wheelchair services provided free by airlines
• Available at all terminals

Wheelchair Service Includes:

• Transport from curb to gate (and vice versa)
• Assistance through TSA screening
• Transfer assistance (if needed)
• Gate-to-gate service for connections

Service Wait Times:

• Typically 5-15 minutes after request
• Peak times (morning/evening) may have longer waits
• Always arrive early to account for wait times

Bringing Your Own Wheelchair

Power Wheelchairs:

• Check battery specifications with airline
• Spillable batteries require special packaging
• Lithium-ion batteries under 300 watt-hours generally allowed
• Arrive 30-45 minutes early for battery inspection

Manual Wheelchairs:

• Can be used up to aircraft door (gate-checked)
• Airline provides narrow aisle wheelchair for boarding
• Your wheelchair returned at destination gate

Accessible Restrooms and Facilities

All O'Hare terminals have:

• Accessible restrooms (every 5-6 gates)
• Family/companion care rooms (for travelers needing assistance)
• Nursing mothers' rooms (Terminal 5)
• Service animal relief areas (all terminals, airside and landside)

Medical Emergency Services

On-Site Medical Care

O'Hare First Aid Stations:

Terminal 1:

• Concourse B, near Gate B18

Terminal 2:

• Concourse E, near Gate E10

Terminal 3:

• Concourse H, near Gate H12 (largest/best-equipped station)

Terminal 5:

• Concourse M, near Gate M18

Services Provided:

• Basic first aid and medical assessment
• Blood pressure checks
• Oxygen administration (for emergencies)
• Coordination with Chicago Fire Department paramedics (if needed)
• NOT a full medical clinic (no prescriptions or extensive treatment)

Staffing: Varies by time; not always staffed 24/7 outside Terminal 3

Emergency Medical Equipment

AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Locations:

• Every gate cluster (approximately every 10 gates)
• All first aid stations
• Security checkpoints
• Baggage claim areas

Oxygen Availability:

• First aid stations have emergency oxygen
• Not for routine supplemental oxygen (bring your own POC)

Nearby Hospitals (If You Need Emergency Care)

Closest to O'Hare:

1. AMITA Health Resurrection Medical Center

• Address: 7435 W. Talcott Ave, Chicago, IL 60631
• Distance: 3 miles from O'Hare (8-12 minutes by car)
• Emergency Room: 24/7 full-service ER

2. Advocate Lutheran General Hospital

• Address: 1775 Dempster St, Park Ridge, IL 60068
• Distance: 4 miles from O'Hare (10-15 minutes by car)
• Emergency Room: 24/7, Level 1 Trauma Center

3. Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital

• Address: 25 N. Winfield Rd, Winfield, IL 60190
• Distance: 15 miles (25 minutes by car)
• Emergency Room: Comprehensive ER services

Emergency Transportation:

• Call 911 for ambulance (fastest response)
• Airport staff can coordinate emergency medical transport
• Uber/Lyft available for non-emergency medical needs

Food and Hydration Options

Medical Travelers: Staying hydrated and maintaining blood sugar crucial during travel.

Restaurant Options by Terminal:

Terminal 1:

• 20+ restaurants (sit-down and grab-and-go)
• Water fountains near restrooms (every concourse)

Terminal 2:

• 15+ dining options
• Water bottle refill stations at gates E8, F10

Terminal 3 (Most options):

• 50+ restaurants across all concourses
• Water bottle refill stations every concourse
• Pharmacies (Concourse H) for emergency supplies

Terminal 5:

• 25+ international dining options
• Water fountains and refill stations throughout

Medical Traveler Tips:

• Bring empty water bottle through security
• Refill at water fountains after checkpoint
• Request ice from any restaurant (free)
• Pharmacies sell distilled water (for CPAP users)

Airline-Specific Medical Device Policies at O'Hare

United Airlines (Terminal 1, 2)

Contact: 1-800-228-2744 (Special Assistance)

POC/Oxygen:

• FAA-approved POCs allowed
• Notify 48 hours before flight
• Battery requirements: 150% of flight duration

Wheelchair Services:

• Request at booking or 48 hours before departure
• Gate-to-gate service available
• Power wheelchair battery inspection at check-in

American Airlines (Terminal 3)

Contact: 1-800-237-7976 (Special Assistance)

POC/Oxygen:

• FAA-approved POCs permitted
• Advance notification 48 hours
• Bring physician's letter for international flights

Wheelchair Services:

• Free wheelchair assistance
• Request at booking or check-in
• Accessible lavatory on most aircraft

Delta Air Lines (Terminal 2)

Contact: 1-404-209-3434 (Disability Services)

POC/Oxygen:

• Accepts all FAA-approved POCs
• 48-hour advance notice
• Battery watt-hour documentation required

Wheelchair Services:

• Complimentary wheelchair service
• Priority boarding for wheelchair users

International Carriers (Terminal 5)

Varies by airline. Contact specific carrier:

• British Airways: 1-800-247-9297
• Lufthansa: 1-800-645-3880
• Emirates: 1-800-777-3999
• ANA (All Nippon Airways): 1-800-235-9262

General International Requirements:

• Physician's letter (English + local language)
• Advance notification (48-72 hours)
• Battery documentation for customs

Connection Tips for Medical Device Travelers

O'Hare Minimum Connection Times:

• Domestic to Domestic: 60 minutes (official), 90+ minutes recommended for medical device travelers
• Domestic to International: 90 minutes (official), 2+ hours recommended
• International to Domestic: 2 hours (official), 3+ hours recommended

Why Extra Time?

• Medical device screening takes longer
• Terminal changes may require ATS train
• Wheelchair assistance coordination
• Re-screening at some connections

Tight Connection Strategies:

• Request wheelchair assistance (faster than walking)
• Use TSA PreCheck (if enrolled)
• Notify arriving flight crew of tight connection (may coordinate wheelchair)
• Have gate agent radio ahead to connecting flight

O'Hare Airport Accessibility Awards

O'Hare has been recognized for:

• Airports Council International (ACI) Accessibility Enhancement Award (2022)
• U.S. Department of Transportation Accessibility Compliance

Recent Improvements:

• Terminal 5 renovation (completed 2021): most accessible terminal
• TSA checkpoint expansions (2023): faster screening
• Additional charging stations (ongoing installations)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I charge my POC battery at O'Hare? A: Yes. Charging stations and power outlets available in all terminals. Terminal 3 and Terminal 5 have the most extensive charging infrastructure.

Q: How early should I arrive if I use a wheelchair? A: Arrive 3 hours early for domestic, 4 hours for international flights. Wheelchair services and screening take extra time.

Q: Does O'Hare have TSA PreCheck for medical device travelers? A: Yes, TSA PreCheck available in all terminals. Medical device travelers benefit significantly from expedited screening.

Q: Can I use the Airport Transit System (ATS) train with my wheelchair? A: Yes. The ATS train is fully wheelchair accessible with designated wheelchair areas and priority seating.

Q: Where can I buy distilled water for my CPAP at O'Hare? A: Pharmacies in Terminal 3 (Concourse H) sell distilled water. Also available at some convenience stores post-security.

Q: What if my medical device fails while at O'Hare? A: Contact first aid station for immediate assistance. Airlines can help coordinate emergency equipment delivery or alternative arrangements.

Q: Are there accessible restrooms in every terminal? A: Yes. Accessible restrooms located every 5-6 gates in all terminals, plus family/companion care rooms.

Q: Can I get assistance if I'm traveling alone with a medical device? A: Yes. Request wheelchair assistance or TSA Cares services when booking. Airline staff and airport personnel trained to assist solo medical device travelers.

Final Checklist: Navigating O'Hare with Medical Devices

Before You Leave Home:

• Verify terminal and airline
• Request wheelchair assistance (if needed)
• Call TSA Cares (855-787-2227) 72 hours before flight
• Charge medical device batteries fully
• Pack physician's letter and prescriptions

Arriving at O'Hare:

• Allow 3-4 hours before departure
• Proceed to correct terminal (verify on airport monitors)
• Check in with airline (notify of medical device)
• Proceed to TSA checkpoint early

At TSA Screening:

• Have medical documents ready
• Inform TSA officer about devices
• Request assistance if needed
• Allow 10-20 minutes for screening

Post-Security:

• Locate gate and charging stations nearby
• Verify connection times (if applicable)
• Request preboarding at gate
• Stay hydrated at water fountains

Conclusion: Confident O'Hare Travel

Chicago O'Hare International Airport welcomes millions of medical device travelers every year. With proper preparation and knowledge of terminal layouts, services, and procedures, navigating O'Hare with POCs, CPAPs, wheelchairs, and other medical equipment is straightforward.

Key Success Factors: ✅ Arrive early - 3-4 hours for medical device screening ✅ Know your terminal - Use this guide to locate services ✅ Request assistance - Wheelchair services and TSA Cares available ✅ Keep documents handy - Prescriptions and physician letters ✅ Plan charging needs - Use stations in Terminals 3 and 5

O'Hare's extensive accessibility infrastructure makes it one of the most medical device-friendly major hubs in the United States.

Safe travels through Chicago O'Hare!

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