question my new M series APAP

[Ren]

Sorry in advance for the long post. I am pasting below the letter I'm including when I give my data download printout to the sleep center. I arrived at the needed self-advocacy with help from you all here, thanks!!

Hello,

Enclosed is a printout of the data download from my APAP machine. I am providing this to you directly because I have lost confidence in the ability of the DME supplier Professional Home Care to provide competent service.

They initially provided the wrong machine. The invoice they gave me specified that they were providing an M Series Pro model CPAP. The actual model they provided was the M Series Plus, with no data download capability. At that time, I did not notice that the model provided did not match the model they were claiming to provide. I still have a copy of the invoice to prove this point. Despite this, they insisted “we provided the machine the doctor ordered.” I am unable to determine if this was an error in filling the prescription, or insurance fraud. Either is troubling.

Upon receiving the prescription for my current machine, the M Series Auto, they stated an intent to provide the machine for a 2 week loaner period only. The prescription clearly stated “99 months” as the length of the need, and noted that “99 months” was intended to signify permanent need. They relented and agreed to honor the prescription as written only when contacted by Donna in your office. Again, did they misread the prescription, or were they intending to provide something other than what was ordered? Troubling either way, and now possibly a pattern of behavior.

They instructed me to return the “smart card” to them via mail for the data download. I asked how I would get the card back so I could re-insert it in my machine and be able to continue logging my data for ongoing assessment and management of my therapy. They replied that that did not intend to return the card at all. There was no explanation as to why. As the card comes with the machine, and is required for ongoing data logging, I consider this unacceptable.

I have purchased a card reader, and the Encore Viewer software, enabling me to download and track my therapy data. At this time I see no need for further contact between myself and Professional Home Care. At such time as I need to replace my mask/pillows/hose or other supplies, I will find another DME supplier who accepts my insurance.

[CorgiGirl]

BRAVO!!!! BRAVO!!!! <standing on chair to wave at Ren, jumping up and down>

I am writing similar a letter, only to my original DME. I'm calling the letter "How You Lost My Business...Let Me Count the Ways." I am cc:ing it to my doc. She knows they've been pinheads, especially when I told her they set up my machine for 2 hours of straight CPAP at 5cm, then to APAP for the rest of the night.

My new DME isn't going to do anything with my card other than download the data and send it via email to my doc. They don't want to keep it or otherwise mess with my machine. Since my doc and new DME know that I can access the provider menu, I'm guessing my doc'll give the pressure range she'd like to try directly to me. I probably should remind her that the first 8 days of my therapy was in the split night mode, too....

[gasp]

Well, hooray, I got the sleep doc to prescribe the REMStar M Series APAP w/ A-Flex! I am supposed to mail the card back in 2 weeks for data eval. I want to get software and a reader. Question is, does a card come with card reader? Or is it purchased separately? DME was clear that upon return of the card I would not get another one. Thanks!

Congrats! You got my favorite machine. I LOVE my A-Flex. Make them give you an extra card so you're gathering data while the other is in transit. I see you got advise about SW and reader so I won't go on about that - except to say I think it's imperative you know your own numbers intimately and the only way to do this is to read them yourself.

[carbonman]

Sorry in advance for the long post.

Hello,

Enclosed is a printout of the data download from my APAP machine. I am providing this to you directly because I have lost confidence in the ability of the DME supplier Professional

....blah...blah....blah....
mask/pillows/hose or other supplies, I will find another DME supplier who accepts my insurance.

Ren, other than I think you gave them way too much information and
you were MUCH to kind......good for you!


FIGHT the BORG!

[rested gal]

Ren, I love your letter and your style!!