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Experience Purchasing CPAP online?
I am wondering what kind of experiences people have had purchasing the actual CPAP machine online. I have already purchased some accessories-- hoses, pillows etc. online. However, I am wondering what kind of experiences and what kind of service people have had purchasing something as substantial and vital as the machine itself.
My doctor is wanting to switch me from an auto cpap to an auto bi-pap and the DME seems less than thrilled or willing to "rush order." Given the number of not great stories I have heard about local DME's, I have been contemplating just purchasing it online.
So...looking forward to your thoughts and experiences.
As always,
Much thanks
Jan
My doctor is wanting to switch me from an auto cpap to an auto bi-pap and the DME seems less than thrilled or willing to "rush order." Given the number of not great stories I have heard about local DME's, I have been contemplating just purchasing it online.
So...looking forward to your thoughts and experiences.
As always,
Much thanks
Jan
Views: 16
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Neal Buckner, LRCP on
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I would suggest having your doctor send the Rx to another DME. If you buy online you don't get the service that comes with a DME provided machine. And can be quite costly! If anything happens to the online bought machine you have to do all the warrenty exchange and repair. While it's in for repair you will be without a loaner to continue your therapy.
Your local DME may have issue with getting auth from their corporate to shell out the dough for a Auto BiLevel. IF you have tried and failed on CPAP and it's documented, then your insurance should pay for the new machine. It also depends on how long ago you had your sleep study. Some insurance companies may ask for a new sleep study that is less than 2 years old. I would call the DME that has your Rx now and ask what the hold up is. Ask if there is an insurance or documentation issue that is holding things up.
Neal
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Permalink Reply by sleepycarol on
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Only trouble with your suggestion Neal is that for many of us, we have less than ideal DME's to work with!!
The cost alone from an online dealer can be as much as half of a local DME. If you have a high deductible, high copay you are much better off buying from a REPUTABLE online dealer. The key word is reputable!!
With the cost savings it maybe possible for some to even purchase a back up machine.
I have acquired two back up machines -- they are used but worth every penny I spent on them. One was $20.00 and the other was around $40.00.
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Permalink Reply by Tim on
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I have bought a number of CPAP and autioPAP machines from on-line suppliers and I haven't had any problems. One of the CPAPs I had shipped overnight, and I received it the next day. You have to provide them with a prescription (fax is OK) and they set the machine per the script. I have even sent a CPAP back for a warranty repair with no problem.
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Permalink Reply by Rock Conner RRT on
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Hi Jan:
Online PAP device purchases are problematic for rookies because the instruction & handholding is important. HOWEVER, you're no rookie. If all you need is a device w/ different capabilities, get that bad boy online & save the cash.
Rock C.
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