[Treatment] Directory of patient-enabling CPAP Treatment Providers

[EasySleep]

My doctor is no cooperative with my self treatment. He's completely unaware of it. As I said, he has no interest in seeing data and doesn't monitor it or my settings. All he cares about is my annual verbal report that my AHI is under 5 and, I assume, the payment from my insurance. I never bothered to ask permission.

Thanks for the gift I can't get, (as is the case with everybody else's reply): there is no list with Dr names, I'd like a moderator to answer whether and where a list could be anonymously posted, (on the Wiki?) of PCP's names and location, who allow patients to experiment with their settings, and will fill out the needed yearly supplies Rx...?
(due to insurance requirements, a nurse, even if PA or LPN, will not be able to get the Rx accepted)

[OpalRose]

What you are suggesting would be near impossible, not to mention impractical.
So no, there is no such list.

You may find if you start another thread and simply state where you live and ask if anyone in the same area has any suggestions.  However, that may not help you if those physicians are not contracted with your insurance.

This is something where you have to do your own research.

You best bet is to call your insurance and request a providers guide.  (Doctors, DME's, etc. that your insurance has contracted with in your area).  You should be able to go online and download this information from your insurance site.  However, that doesn't mean they will be the kind of doctor that will be ok will you practicing self-advocacy.  

I'm a firm believer that you are you own best advocate.  Apnea Board has much to offer and can help you become that, but you have to put forth some effort.  Learn all you can about your condition and the Cpap you are using.  When you visit your doctor, he may recognize your knowledge and be ok with you being the one to suggest changes.
If he/she is not, then search for a doctor that meets your needs.

You are not "stuck" with any one physician.  

I'm in the same boat as most others here, but my doctor recognizes that I know what I'm doing with my therapy and he doesn't mind me making the adjustments I need.  
I've never asked his permission, but do try to keep him informed.  Sometimes, a PA is much easier to deal with, and has more time.  And I realize we need to touch base with these doctors at least once a year to keep receiving our supplies.  

Again, you need to be your own advocate and learn all you can.  This way, when you visit that doctor, you're not totally at their mercy.  Show him/her you know what you are doing.  If he's still uncooperative, then it's time to move on.  You don't need to see a specialist, it can be your family doctor.  But it helps if you have established a good relationship with a doctor over the years.  Call your insurance for that providers list.  

In the meantime, take advantage of what we offer here.  Start by downloading the free OSCAR software.  You can post a Screenshot here of your data for advice.  
That's totally up to you.

[Crimson Nape]

The knowledge level and competency of the patient would play a major role in a doctor's decision to go along with this. We all know a person that could screw up a steel ball with a rubber hammer, much less properly adjust a CPAP for proper therapy.

- Red