I am new and would like to purchase my own Cpap machine. I have had sleep study done.

[Ericivey1]

I would like to get information on procedure on purchasing a Cpap machine. I’m not sure one to get companies by me want to rent and go through insurance co. Don’t want to do. I have had study done and need to know the recommendations for settings from sleep clinic. Will they tell me or can I have them send information to someone that can? Thanks, Eric Ivey

[OpalRose]

You have a right to a copy of the Sleep Study, and a copy of your prescription.

This will show you if you have Obstructive Apnea, or Complex Sleep Apnea. If you can get a copy, post that information here, and we can advise what type of machine you may need, and give recommendations.

A regular Cpap or preferably an Apap is suitable for most, but if you have high pressure needs, then a BiPap would be a better option. If you have complex/central Apnea, then you would need an ASV machine which can be very expensive.

So the importance of knowing what your sleep study says can help decide on the best machine to treat your Apnea.

[KSMatthew]

You'll need a prescription from your/a doc based on the results of your study.

With a prescription you have several options:
1) go where your insurance company sends you
2) buy your own and turn in the expenses towards your deductible
3) probably more that I can't think of right now.

If you buy your own online: do your research, and email your prescription and be very clear that you want it configured before it gets shipped to you. The last CPAP I bought was mailed to me, still in the factory box, never been turned on, and I had to set it up myself. That was no problem though.

Masks: This is where I think it's a good idea to go where your insurance company sends you. You will need to find a mask that works for you. You need to try them on. A local supplier gives you the chance to try several until you find something that works. It took me three masks. It will cost more. After you find one that works, you can buy replacements online.

[MitchS]

If you decide to post a copy of your sleep study be sure to redact any personally identifiable information.

[Sleeprider]

Go to Amazon and buy the Resmed Airsense 10 Autoset. It's currently listed at $514, but the price varies down to $440. Put it on a watch, but even the higher price is a great deal. The Philips Respironics Dreamstation Auto CPAP is currently $383. Same thing. The Dreamstation is an excellent machine, but if I'm choosing, I go for the Resmed. Both provide full data and auto-CPAP functionality. No prescriptions, or delay, and both include the heated humidifier and heated tube. You will need to find a mask. You may find one on Amazon, but all are available as "parts" with headgear, frame and cushion sold separately. My preference is the Resmed Airfit P10.

You have everything you need for a prescription. Get a copy of your study and ask your doctor to write a script for Auto CPAP with the recommended settings from your study, mask, filter, heated tube, and supplies. That way if you need a prescription you will have it. See our Suppiler list for full service equipment providers, however prices may be a bit higher. Also Supplier #1 will provide a return warranty with a mask. Good luck!

[stanleydean]

You have a right to a copy of the Sleep Study, and a copy of your prescription.

This will show you if you have Obstructive Apnea, or Complex Sleep Apnea.  If you can get a copy, post that information here, and we can advise what type of machine you may need, and give recommendations.

A regular Cpap or preferably an Apap is suitable for most, but if you have high pressure needs, then a BiPap would be a better option.  If you have complex/central Apnea, then you would need an ASV machine which can be very expensive.  

So the importance of knowing what your sleep study says can help decide on the best machine to treat your Apnea.

I agree with OpalRose, get a complete copy of the sleep study, not a summary, then also a copy of your Rx. Keep both of these as permanent records. Some on line sellers do not always ask for a Rx for a CPAP machine but obtain one before attempting to order so you can provide it if requested. Was your sleep study in clinic or at home? 

I bought a machine on line and was not asked for a Rx. My doctor's nurse gave me information about a small locally owned equipment supplier located about an hour's drive from me. They don't work with any insurance companies and are strictly independent. I have not contacted them yet but plan to do so in search of the right mask. You are on the right track but post as much additional  information as possible.

Best wishes in your journey,

Stan

[trish6hundred]

Hi Ericivey1,
WELCOME! to the forum.!
Good luck as you start CPAP therapy, and also with your machine decision, hang in there for more responses to your post.