07-14-2018, 04:50 PM
DME run around...4 mo and still no mask, what to do?!
I am exasperated with my DME (a nationwide co) who has yet to provide me with a ffm despite recieving a blanket purchase order in May, from my Dr, numerous phone calls (which are NEVER returned), and finaly an onsite visit. I live outside the Tucson metro area, so visiting the DME office is an hours drive.
I am new to CPAP therapy, and I was warned that the DME's here had TERRIBLE customer service. But I finally gave up and called the BCBS plan rep in Texas and he said just order it online and we'll bill you for 20%.
I have seen the paperwork my Drs office has sent the DME over the past 4 mo., and now, after ghost orders that were never filled, cancelled Resp Therp appointments, vague promises to resolve this issue, etc. they now want a "more specific prescription" from my Dr. We are back to square one... I can request another(duplicate) prescription from my Dr, but normaly (the Dr said) the DME supplies the mask and then they inform the Dr to request/approve the prescription.
Is there an alternative to this rigamaroll or is this pretty typical?
RE: DME run around...4 mo and still no mask, what to do?!
When I had problems, I asked my PCP for a new prescription. Be sure they have the test results, and they should have no problem. As for the more specific BS, try sending a copy of your prescription to
Supplier #30, as they are rather liberal with prescriptions and may even take your insurance.
07-14-2018, 06:02 PM
(This post was last modified: 07-14-2018, 06:05 PM by tedvpap.)
RE: DME run around...4 mo and still no mask, what to do?!
Unfortunately, your frustration is common.
I purchased my last machine and supplies without my insurance and doctor because I don't want the hassle.
RE: DME run around...4 mo and still no mask, what to do?!
Unfortunately this is pretty common. DME jerks on your chain till you go postal. Not necessarily advising you do that. Just saying they will get on your last nerve frequently if you allow it.
Call your doc about the script. Have him/her put for mask "patient preference". If not, take your insurance CS advice and buy from wherever and get reimbursed x%.-
And welcome to AB.
Mask Primer
Positional Apnea
INFORMATION ON APNEA BOARD FORUMS OR ON APNEABOARD.COM SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED MEDICAL ADVICE. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF A PHYSICIAN BEFORE SEEKING TREATMENT FOR MEDICAL CONDITIONS, INCLUDING SLEEP APNEA. INFORMATION POSTED ON THE APNEA BOARD WEBSITE AND FORUMS ARE PERSONAL OPINION ONLY AND NOT NECESSARILY A STATEMENT OF FACT.
RE: DME run around...4 mo and still no mask, what to do?!
Write a letter listing all your attempts to utilize the DME to the head of your insurance company (usually can come with a name doing a little Googling). Tell him/her that you, as a customer of the insurance company, are appalled that they would allow one of their suppliers to treat their customers in that manner.
Went through something similar while trying to get some equipment for my wife several years ago. Amazing what a call from the head of an insurance company to the head of DME company can do....
When is this “old enough to know better” supposed to kick in?
RE: DME run around...4 mo and still no mask, what to do?!
Thanks mdhampton, that is good to know.
RE: DME run around...4 mo and still no mask, what to do?!
Tdvtap - wow, drastic! I am getting a whole new perspective from the replies.
07-14-2018, 08:49 PM
(This post was last modified: 07-14-2018, 08:51 PM by Azscooterbird.)
RE: DME run around...4 mo and still no mask, what to do?!
Sarcasticdave94 - "patient preference" Check! Excellent advice.Thank you.
Thank you Tinman53, that is excellent advice. I will do just that... what's the harm?
RE: DME run around...4 mo and still no mask, what to do?!
(07-14-2018, 08:49 PM)Azscooterbird Wrote: Sarcasticdave94 - "patient preference" Check! Excellent advice.Thank you.
Thank you Tinman53, that is excellent advice. I will do just that... what's the harm?
You're welcome. Best wishes on resolution.
Mask Primer
Positional Apnea
INFORMATION ON APNEA BOARD FORUMS OR ON APNEABOARD.COM SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED MEDICAL ADVICE. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF A PHYSICIAN BEFORE SEEKING TREATMENT FOR MEDICAL CONDITIONS, INCLUDING SLEEP APNEA. INFORMATION POSTED ON THE APNEA BOARD WEBSITE AND FORUMS ARE PERSONAL OPINION ONLY AND NOT NECESSARILY A STATEMENT OF FACT.
RE: DME run around...4 mo and still no mask, what to do?!
I have similar problems with a Tucson DME. It took four months from asking my doctor for a sleep test until I finally had my APAP. (At least I got the APAP I wanted!) Now I am waiting for another Rx update before I can try a different mask. My wife uses the same DME. At least, once everything settles down, getting refills on supplies has been straightforward.
