Dumping DME --- Which machine??

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ScrappinMom
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Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by ScrappinMom » Mon Aug 24, 2009 11:12 am

I've decided to go ahead and dump the DME. Just not worth my peace of mind. So...which machine?? My Rx is specifically for ResMed, which I am ok with. I was going to get the Elite II, but now I'm wondering if I should just bump up to the AutoSet. What's a few more $$ at this point?? My current pressure is 8, my study said 16 apnes, but a lot more hypopneas and snoring. Sorry, can't remember ##s and don't have it with me. Also, I have absolutely no intention of ever having another study; the 2 most horrific nights of my life. But that's another story... So I was thinking the autoset might be a good investment for the future?

Thanks again for everyones help. I would have already thrown in the towel without you all.

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carbonman
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Re: Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by carbonman » Mon Aug 24, 2009 11:29 am

ScrappinMom wrote:I've decided to go ahead and dump the DME. Just not worth my peace of mind. So...which machine?? My Rx is specifically for ResMed, which I am ok with. So I was thinking the autoset might be a good investment for the future?

Thanks again for everyones help. I would have already thrown in the towel without you all.
'Mom, now you're coming up to speed.

It's about YOU!
You're in the drivers seat now.

I would get the Autoset. It gives you all the options you need
to take charge of your therapy.

Be patient! Look into all your options.
Check, check and double check.
Ask, we'll help.

Don't throw in the towel......wrap it around their throat and make them
give you what you deserve.
"If your therapy is improving your health but you're not doing anything
to see or feel those changes, you'll never know what you're capable of."
I said that.

ScrappinMom
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Location: Oklahoma

Re: Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by ScrappinMom » Mon Aug 24, 2009 11:39 am

Thanks CarbonMan! I have been researching the past week; it seems the AutoSet is the best way to go, as it's not that much more $, plus I can set it at straight CPAP if I choose.
I need to order pretty soon, so that I can return the one to DME before month #2 begins.

Unless someone advises me otherwise, I think I'll get the Autoset.

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Pugsy
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Re: Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by Pugsy » Mon Aug 24, 2009 11:52 am

ScrappinMom wrote: Unless someone advises me otherwise, I think I'll get the Autoset.
I totally agree with your thoughts. You never know but there may come a time down the road that the APAP features might be needed or wanted. I plan to use my APAP to do a self study on my sister who refuses to talk to her doctor about OSA possibility. While not an ideal way to go, it is either that way and get her to face some ugly facts, or let her go without treatment. As soon as I have a back up machine of some sort, she will get a little trial with my APAP.

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trudytwilite
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Re: Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by trudytwilite » Mon Aug 24, 2009 12:18 pm

I just got back from my DME (to replace my broken Comfort Gel Mask). We had a half hour argument about why I would possibly want to see data other than compliance data. Ummmm ..... perhaps because there is absolutely no measure of how this therapy is working and I won't see my doctor for a freaking year! He said they only give those units to underaged children.

I'm still in my rental period and don't know what to do.

I'm not sure how to best investigate other DMEs in my area.

I do know I was a little hot under the collar when Ieft. They must HATE the internet. I know I don't like feeling like I'm talking to a used car salesman. You ARE naive when you first get diagnosed. They don't show you what models are available. Now I've done some research and I want options ............ so do NOT condescend to me, DME!

*deep breath. Thank you, I feel better now.*

trudytwilite
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Re: Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by trudytwilite » Mon Aug 24, 2009 12:19 pm

Thank you for letting me rant on your thread.

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Pugsy
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Re: Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by Pugsy » Mon Aug 24, 2009 12:29 pm

trudytwilite wrote: I'm not sure how to best investigate other DMEs in my area.
Start with a phone call to your insurance company to see which DME facility is in your network (if you have network limitations).
Then start calling DME's to see which basic machine they normally dispense and just tell them which model you want and ask if they would be willing to provide you with that model.

Do the math, would the in network co-pays save you money when compared to online purchase? Does your insurance company reimburse for out of network purchases? Some do, some don't. Cpap.com will furnish an insurance claim form that can be used to file with insurance carriers.

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ScrappinMom
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Re: Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by ScrappinMom » Mon Aug 24, 2009 12:39 pm

TrudyTwilite, No problem! Rant away!
I just ordered my AutoSet. I feel so FREE!!! I will be returning my Escape as soon as the AutoSet arrives.
I think between my co-insurance and the difference I would've had to pay to get what I want from the DME, it would be pretty much a wash. I am so thankful I found this forum.

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drj130
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Re: Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by drj130 » Mon Aug 24, 2009 12:50 pm

trudytwilite wrote:He said they only give those units to underaged children.
I don't understand why they only give those machines to underage children. Unless you're talking about the compliance only machine. It isn't like a kid could use a fully data capable to play WOW on it. lol
*deep breath. Thank you, I feel better now.*
Glad that you're feeling better after ranting. Most people do once they get that kind of stuff out.

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Slinky
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Re: Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by Slinky » Mon Aug 24, 2009 12:52 pm

CONGRATULATIONS, ScrappinMom!!!! Way to go!

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GumbyCT
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Re: Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by GumbyCT » Mon Aug 24, 2009 1:01 pm

Mom stop and take a breath - please. Don't act out of anger - I know it's easy for me to say. But I know how you feel.

1. Don't sign that AMA for any reason, period. As Pugsy said YOU are not refusing treatment - so DO NOT sign it.

2. You may not want to give up this machine UNTIL you have your replacement, if you are not getting it from them.

3. Don't mis-understand me, I could not and do not trust anyone who lies to me. When it comes to my helathcare does it really matter if they didn't lie but just didn't know what they are doing? Does it?

So if you can get a replacement from them while you shop for your own machine that may be something to consider. But also consider that when ANY cpap machine needs service, you MUST go thru a DME to get it service only bc none of the manufacturers will speak directly to you (or me) or any patient.

Just take your time - you are taking the right steps. Keep posting and reading here.

Good Luck
Edit: I see your post that you already ordered good move.

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ScrappinMom
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Re: Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by ScrappinMom » Mon Aug 24, 2009 1:07 pm

Gumby CT,
Don't worry, I'm not doing this out of anger, or a knee-jerk reaction. I've been considering this for about 2 weeks. I know if I need service, I'll have to deal with someone but it won't be my current DME. I definitely won't be turning in my Escape until after my AutoSet arrives. I have about 10 more days until the month's rent is up, so I have plenty of time to get my new machine and get it up and running. I have previously gotten CPAP.Com orders in about 3 days, as I am relatively close to them. Thanks for the concern. I do truly appreciate it.

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carbonman
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Re: Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by carbonman » Mon Aug 24, 2009 1:18 pm

ScrappinMom wrote:
I just ordered my AutoSet. I feel so FREE!!!
I am so thankful I found this forum.
Free at last, Free at last......

'Ya done good.
"If your therapy is improving your health but you're not doing anything
to see or feel those changes, you'll never know what you're capable of."
I said that.

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GumbyCT
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Re: Dumping DME --- Which machine??

Post by GumbyCT » Mon Aug 24, 2009 1:23 pm

carbonman wrote:
ScrappinMom wrote:
I just ordered my AutoSet. I feel so FREE!!!
I am so thankful I found this forum.
Free at last, Free at last......

'Ya done good.
Or as Carbonman once said - "The Sky is Blue" ha

_________________
Humidifier: HC150 Heated Humidifier With Hose, 2 Chambers and Stand
Additional Comments: New users can't remember they can't remember YET!
BeganCPAP31Jan2007;AHI<0.5
I have no doubt, how I sleep affects every waking moment.
I am making progress-NOW I remember that I can't remember
;)
If this isn’t rocket science why are there so many spaceshots?
Be your own healthcare advocate!