[Equipment] Another Newbie - ? on machine

[me50]

What Shastzi said. These machines are expensive and insurance companies might not be willing to purchase an auto set when a patient already has a cpap machine without evidence of why this is necessary. IMHO, it is better to start with a machine that is more versatile from the onset so if changes need to be made, the machine is able to handle that.

[JohnNJ]

Thank you all for your input and recommendations. I will be seeing the doctor on Tuesday to discuss the results of my test and I will let you know what happens.

Thanks again.

[JohnNJ]

Sorry - just want to confirm what to ask for. I would let the doctor choose between ResMed and PR since they are on par and I will insist on the auto machines first.

1) ResMed S9 Autoset or ResMed S9 Elite - either with H5i humidifier & Climateline tubing.

2) Philips Respironics System One (Series 60) REMSTAR Auto with A-Flex or PRS1 Pro with C-Flex - with heated tube humidifier.

Do I have that right? I want to make sure the prescription has the correct names so the DME doesn't send the wrong one.

Thanks.

[PaulaO2]

Yes, and make sure the box on the prescription (or have the doctor write on it) says "dispense as written".

Are you paying for this out of pocket? If so, you can get one wherever you want with the prescription. Check out Supplier #2 in the Supplier's List (link at top of every page).

If your insurance is paying, don't let the doctor or supplier (we call them DME) say "your insurance won't pay for this" because that isn't true. All CPAP machines have the same insurance code. That includes autoPAP and CPAP. (Bilevel PAP and ASV PAP have different codes.) This means that the insurance companies pay the same amount for all machines that fall within that code. The supplier will then want to give you the cheapest machine so they get the greatest profit. Can't blame them, really, except they lie about it. AND most insurance companies "rent" the machine so even if they sell you a high end machine, they still get a lot of money.

Good luck and let us know how it goes!