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→Handling the DME
Masks are extremely important. So much so that they are at times called “Interfaces” because they interface between the machine and your face. Masks are typically the hardest to get right. That is because your face is unique. Visits to the DME are opportunities to try masks. Take advantage of these visits. Oh and read the [[Mask_Primer|Mask Primer]].
== User DME interactions ==
'''One users Path to machine'''
Here's my thumbnail sketch of how I got my latest CPAP/ASV blower:
# I called my health insurance Customer Service, we discussed which DME's were in-net nearby, I noted names/addresses/phone #
# I called above noted DME's to decide which I wanted to deal with, determined mostly by geographic location and products carried, AND by reputation
# After the ASV version of PSG, I called the pulmonary docs office to tell them which DME to use for the ASV script
# Called DME, doc, and insurance MULTIPLE times until my script was filled with newly prescribed ASV
# Waited 24 hours and repeat step 4 then step 5 over for a few weeks
BTW step 5 has NO sarcastic intent; this is really what happened. I didn't sit very long while waiting on these 3 amigos to do anything. At least one of the 3 heard from me every day until I knew the machine was to placed in my hands on a certain date and time.
'''Another User'''
I would call your doctor's office and let them know that the DME they've referred you to is interfering with your ability to get treatment for your affliction. Make it a medical complaint rather than a service complaint because the staff is trained to deal with medical complaints in a much more structured manner. That is, you are more likely to get results that way. One call from the doctor's office to that DME may be enough to get them in gear.
For example, when I told my doctor that I needed my machine because a lack of sleep was having a serious effect on the quality of my life he had his nurse issue a "stat" order. The DME called me a couple hours later and delivered a machine to my home that afternoon.
== Medicare and DME (for CPAP) ==
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