Hybrid Mask

SleeplessinWI · Post by **SleeplessinWI** » Tue Oct 24, 2006 11:41 am

Just wanted to let you all know that I took the plunge and purchased the Hybrid Mask. I originally had a full face Comfort mask which I found very uncomfortable, too much leakage and hard to stay compliance with the prescribed treatment. The air leakage by my eyes and by my cheeks woke me up more often then without; defeating any benefits to be gained. With the new mask...so far, so good. I have actucally felt rested when I get up in the mornings.

I was a little displeased w/ the local company (which my doctor suggested I go through, since I didn't like the first one I was working with). First off, they never heard of the mask, but was willing to call the company and try and order it for me. They were able to order it. I asked how much and was told it would cost me $119. Which I thought was grand because online, the lowest price I found was $174. So, they get it in. They had no clue how to do the fitting. Didn't even take the time to watch the video and made a febble attempt @ helping get a good fit. Then, gave me the bill for $214. I asked to speak with the lady that quoted me the $119. and she wouldn't even come out of the back room. I realise that she may have mistakenly quoted me their list price, but I thought 'geez' who are these people? They are the ones that are supposed to be knowledgeable about medical equipment; not the other way around. It is understandable to add a mark-up to cover the cost of their help, but they are not all that helpful. I guess the last paragraph was basically a 'vent'. I have become so disilliuioned w/ our healthcare system and I am sure there are others on this list that have worse horror stories.

Well...I am going to look forward to continued success w/ my new mask. Hopefully, it is not what they call the 'honeymoon' period and just my wishful thinking. I will report back sometime in the future.

JE

bdp522 · Post by **bdp522** » Tue Oct 24, 2006 12:27 pm

I wish you continued success with the hybrid mask. I Love my hybrid. If you have trouble with it just post the problem and someone will try and help you out!

Brenda

oldgearhead · Post by **oldgearhead** » Tue Oct 24, 2006 12:35 pm

I've used the Hybrid every night (except 4) since July 8 2006. I have three
or four suggestions:

1) Use some kind of ointment to "condition" your nose for long term use with nasal pillows. Lanolin or olive oil based products, as well as ChapStik, Ary Gel, and even KY Jel are some of the popular choices used by members of this forum. I like lanolin based products, like Bag Balm. Some even use Vaseline, but the mention of that product always starts a fight on this board.

2) Get a set of Pad-A-Cheeks. They help take the "bite" out of the straps.

3) Get the "better" headgear, if they ever make it available.

4) Make sure the mouthpiece is dry, before putting it on at night. I found
mine will not completely dry hanging in a dark place for 12 hours. Therefore, I use a hair dryer on it every evening.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Tue Oct 24, 2006 12:52 pm

My mother lives in St Francis Wisconsin and was recently told by her DME that they never heard of the hybrid face mask. If it's not too nosy, could you say which one did manage to obtain the mask for you? My mother's multiple nasal surgeries (skin cancer) make it impossible for her to wear a regular full face mask and she has found out she does mouth breathe with only a nasal interface. Thanks in advance if you are able to help.

rested gal · Post by **rested gal** » Tue Oct 24, 2006 1:34 pm

Guest, several people have reported that their DMEs had not heard of the Hybrid before. But when they asked the DMEs to order it for them anyway, some DMEs were willing to do that.

Given your mother's unique type of difficulty with masks, perhaps her DME would order it for her even though they had never heard of it. It would take a pretty uncaring DME to not let her try it since she has some rather special mask needs. Perhaps all that's needed is for her (or you) to ask them to please order it for her anyway.

You can find more information about the Hybrid here:

https://www.cpap.com/productpage-advanced.php?PNum=2204

SleeplessinWI · Post by **SleeplessinWI** » Tue Oct 24, 2006 2:10 pm

Hi, Guest:

I am not sure what part of WI St. Francis is in, but I live approx. 30 miles east of Eau Claire WI. The DME that I went through is: Apria Healthcare, 1316 N. Hastings Way, Eau Claire WI. Phone #: 715-834-7517 (800#: 1-800-289-8700)

Apparently, their head office is located in Chicago, IL. Call the 800# and see if there is an office closer to where your mom lives, if she doesn't live near Eau Claire. I hope your Mom finds something that works. My old mask was too heavy on the bridge of my nose and this Hybris completely eliminates that. Best to you & your Mom.

tooly125 · Post by **tooly125** » Tue Oct 24, 2006 6:11 pm

SleeplessinWI,

I love the way my Hybrid fits and I often get nights with 0.0 AHI with it.
I also agree with Oldgearhead about the Padacheeks they do make it even better.

I wouldn't worry about a honeymoon period if it's working for you now your home free!

Any problems just give us a yell.