Dealing with switching insurance

Hi everyone!

I'm new here, but I've been using a CPAP device for about 1 year.

I turned 26 recently, so I lost my parent's health insurance and switched to a different insurance.

My new insurance doesn't use my old CPAP service provider, so, I paid off my CPAP machine out of pocket and then dropped them. But I need a new mask.

Does anyone have experience switching insurances while on CPAP therapy? I have a list of the accepted providers from my insurance. Do I just call them and say I need a new mask? Will they even take me on as a "patient" if I already have my own device?

Thanks for any help you can offer.

-Sean

You should have no problem switching providers. What the new DME will require is a copy of your original sleep study and a copy (or a new)prescription. They shouldn't care that the machine was purchased elsewhere.

LSAT wrote:You should have no problem switching providers. What the new DME will require is a copy of your original sleep study and a copy (or a new)prescription. They shouldn't care that the machine was purchased elsewhere.

Thanks! I just wanted to know what I was in for before I initiated the process because I HATE dealing with health insurance companies.

seano287 wrote: Thanks! I just wanted to know what I was in for before I initiated the process because I HATE dealing with health insurance companies.

they're bad for your health, mental health if nothing else

You may want to interview the candidates, and find out if they will provide the supplies/masks you currently use.
Some outfits only handle one brand, and refuse to special order.
Ask about mask return policies, as you may want to try something new.
Try to avoid Apria and Lincare, as they have earned less than stellar reputations.
Also consider the size of your deductible versus mask and supply prices online.
(plug: cpap.com --forum sponsor)
You may be ahead buying out of pocket, since you already own a machine.