initial supplies and accessories

wireless · Post by **wireless** » Wed Jul 16, 2008 3:48 pm

Ok, I figure the DME is going to sell me everything upfront that they are "allowed to" by my insurance company. And that probably most of it will be good. Not including the machine+humidifier, it appears it's going to be $195 in upfront supplies (80% covered by my ins), and most of that would be the mask cost (Quattro FF). And a tube or two.

I am wondering if there's anything I should watch out for, so I don't buy things that are going to sit around collecting dust. Then, mostly, on the other hand, I wonder if there are optional upsell items I should purchase while I am there. (Especially if insurance will pay their part.) I'll probably buy most items online over time, save money, maybe get them gently used, if insurance won't help anyway.

My thoughts so far are... maybe I better get some tape and 2 quick connectors now? 1 swivel connector? Ideally ones that are quick+swivel. Don't know what type of tape, micropore? Extra filters - how long before I need to replace - not sure if I should get the higher quality ones, but probably? Will probably get the software/cardreader/etc later on. Skip the hose covers and extra hoses for now I'm thinking. Don't have extra money to spare. And I guess it's not that bad if I have to make another trip to the same DME or another supply place. Already have distilled water and I guess I can find some baby shampoo & vinegar at WalMart for cleaning.

I'll try to research this more myself, but am seeing DME soon so maybe someone can help. Thanks for reading

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Thu Jul 17, 2008 6:57 am

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Slinky · Post by **Slinky** » Thu Jul 17, 2008 7:08 am

I didn't need anything that wasn't provided. Nothing extra.

I was given the CPAP, the carrying case, the Users Manual, the filters, the hose, the humidifier, the mask. I already had my own distilled water at home. Which is just as well, they charge $2.45 a gallon and distilled water sells for 89 to 99 cents at our local grocery store.

wireless · Post by **wireless** » Thu Jul 17, 2008 7:11 am

Thanks again. Yeah, lol, I thought they might try to sell me overpriced water. I'm planning to just get what's included and possibly 1-2 connectors.

Bert_Mathews · Post by **Bert_Mathews** » Thu Jul 17, 2008 7:55 am

The -BIG thing you will need! is the COPY of your SCRIPT -- Even multi copies and don't let them charge EXTRA for a hose and filters or case IT ALL comes with the machine --- I had a DME that thought they had a SUCKER on the line and would drag out as much out of pocket $$ as they could.
I found I can get stuff from the AUCTION or CPAP.com cheaper than what the DME charges as co-pay...
WELCOME to being a hosehead but watch the $$ in your pocket too many want a shot at it!

BERT

Insomniyak · Post by **Insomniyak** » Thu Jul 17, 2008 8:22 am

I don't think you will have to worry about them trying to sell you something extra that inurance will only pay them a certain amount on. Basically a hose, mask, filters. As slinky said, buy the distilled at a supermarket or drug store. Are you at least getting a data capable machine?? I would worry about them trying to short change you on what you want for a machine.

wireless · Post by **wireless** » Thu Jul 17, 2008 2:41 pm

It's done Got the (rent-to-purchase) ResMed VPAP Auto, which comes with smartcard, and the humidifier. Also needed mask, headgear for the mask, hose, 1 filter (bought). All new items and they come with cases and manuals. That's it, minimal package. Distilled water from grocery store.

Slinky · Post by **Slinky** » Thu Jul 17, 2008 2:59 pm

Good going! Yer all set now. Just a matter of getting friendly w/the mask.

LackingSleep · Post by **LackingSleep** » Wed Jul 30, 2008 7:35 am

If you are looking for a great deal on filters and do not want to hassle with the insurance go to http://www.cpapfiltersandsupplies.com.
Best prices - I have probably looked at 20 sites.

Humidifier

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