Replacement parts for masks,how often and what are the signs

[NyNurse33]

I think I have read this topic on here before. My nasal pillows don't seem as comfortable as they did when I first started using them, about 2 1/2 weeks ago. Do most people replace parts like thes before needing a whole new mask and if so how often? Anyone know typically how often insurance will pay for replacements? I have BC/BS. Thanks

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CPAPopedia Keywords Contained In This Post (Click For Definition): Nasal Pillows

[DreamStalker]

Although policies appear to vary from state to state and perhaps from employer to employer as well, my BS/BC Tx allows for new pillow replacements every 2 weeks.

You may need to call your insurance to find out exact policy for you.

- roberto

[NyNurse33]

Do others on here find that they have to replace parts like nasal pillows, about every 2 weeks? Is the fact that they are not as comfortable as they were in the beginning a sign of needing replacement?

[sleepyred]

My crazy DME won't sell "individual" parts - ie a new mask - I either have to buy out of pocket or wait to get the entire headgear set up every 6 months. I just buy replacement parts of cpap.com when I think I need them. The insurance company just says to let the DME submit the bill, but they refuse to speak to me - unless it has been 6 months! So strange!

[NyNurse33]

Well I hope my DME doesn't give me that problem. These are all questions I would of asked before picking a DME......oh wait, I didn't pick them, my sleep lab sent the script to them without asking me where I wanted to go to. Wish I joined this site before my titration test. Major violations of patient rights going on.

[Maryb]

I think replacing your pillows every 2.5 weeks seems awfully frequent. I haven't replaced my pillows yet at all. However, I'm on my third mask (breeze - swift - hybrid) and I started with CPAP mid-March of this year.


Maryb

[bdp522]

I've been using the hybrid mask for 6 weeks and I see no need to replace cushions or pillows. They seem just the same as when I got them.

Brenda

[sleepyred]

I live in a big city and have called every DME on my insurance company's list and can only find ONE who will supply me. So unless it's out of pocket, I have to follow "their" rules.

[Gerald]

Melissa.....I posted a long message to "Sharon" (Whining Hose Head) on 9/16. It might give you some ideas on adjusting the CL2. I suspect that you are into the same problem I had....nasal pillows that didn't fit correctly.

[Fletch]

Just out of interest how do you get parts, especially headgear? I have been interested in a couple of the adaptations for the Breeze but as a newbie I don't have a draw full of disguarded masks I can raid for parts.

[oldgearhead]

I've found that if they are washed in a 4:1 (water:vinegar), once a week,
the pillows stay pretty flexible. I have a 5 year-old-pair, used about 120 times, from an Adam Circuit, that are still quite usable.

[Guest]

The material the nasal pillows are made of might be responsible for a lot of difference in their ability to stay soft. I am still using the original nasal pillows (clear silicone) from my 12 year old Adam Circuit. I wash the nosepiece assembly every night with a drop of softsoap and rinse with warm water. Other than being yellowed, the pillows are still soft and comfortable.

[yardbird]

I think if I remember correctly, the medicare guidelines for pillow replacement state 90 days. Most insurance companies follow the medicare guidelines for maintenance parts.

I will agree that 2 weeks seems a terribly short time for pillows. I've got some that have been in nearly constant use for a year and they are still quite comfy and useable.

[RachelM]

I had difficulty with the nasal pillow on CL2 after about two months. I got a new one free under 90-day warranty. It might pay to check if your problem is covered under warranty.