Question about Kaiser Device Options

[Roup1]

I am a Kaiser patient with very good DME coverage. My plan gets me a new machine every 5 years at no co-pay as well as masks and supplies on a regular basis. This is a new plan for me as my previous plan with them did not have DME coverage. I have been on CPAP therapy for 10 years and have previously purchased my own equipment. (I currently have a ResMed S9 Auto which works fine.) I went in to the local sleep clinic to take advantage of my new coverage and they gave me a brand new Phillips Respronics RemStar Auto CPAP 560 with humidifier. They had the machine in stock in their "closet" program and gave it to me on the spot without having to go through their supplier. I have not used it yet as I really wanted the new ResMed AirSense 10. The tech told me that ResMed is not on their formulary and that Respronics are the only machines that they give out.

Looking to see if anyone has experience trying to change the machine through Kaiser or is this something that I would have to do on my own? Any input would be appreciated.

[trish6hundred]

Hi Roup1,
WELCOME! to the forum.!
Hang in there for answers to your questions and much success to you as you continue your CPAP therapy.

[DariaVader]

That's the thing about Kaiser. It gives great coverage within limited options. At least they are giving out the newest auto... the Respironics Auto is a good machine. It has some benefits over the Resmeds - such as better performance if you must use battery power. I have not used one, but my dad has Kaiser and he has the Respironics auto also - although it is a loaner, and is a 550. (He was diagnosed with apnea more than 10 yrs ago but never managed to use his old cpap. Kaiser now has him on "watch" which he needs. He hasn't yet passed the qualification for keeping a machine, as he has a difficult time sleeping for enough hours)

[Roup1]

Thanks for the feedback!