IPA switched DMEs on me--is this typical?

[Scarlet834]

I'm reacting prematurely, since I'll get on the phone with my IPA tomorrow, but I can't help venting after hours. I've previously posted about my DME as one of the good ones, and I have a great working relationship with one of the RTs there. So, it's three months post CPAP, I'm happily using my M Series PRO with CFLEX. I got a call from my Dr. office to confirm I'm happy with the machine I'm using (yes).

So, next thing I know I get an authorization in the mail from my IPA to get a CPAP and humidifier from APRIA. Imagine my joy and happiness (after reading many posts on this board over the past two months). Am I supposed to give my first machine back?

Hopefully I'll be able to preserve my relationship with DME #1 (Metro-Med, I don't mind saying). Worst case, there's always CPAP.com, but I won't have any insurance coverage in that case.

[cflame1]

see if you can arrange a buy out... then you won't have to go with whatever APRIA wants to give you.

[Scarlet834]

No, I'm not acting prematurely. Apparently Blue Shield loves Apria more than my first DME. It's a contract thing, start of the new year and all. I am SO sad.

I'm checking into the buyout of the equipment I have now, and I'm also going to check into continuity of services, though I'm skeptical that I can pull it off.

Does anyone have anything good to say about Apria (please)?

[Scarlet834]

Can't buy out my existing equipment even on my own. I guess I will try to get the same or better through Apria, with the CPAP.com option in my back pocket. I'll make sure what my copays would total to purchase at Apria prices. What insanity! (Will make up my handy dandy list of data-capable equipment.)

[SnoozyWoozyCat]

Does anyone have anything good to say about Apria (please)?

I just posted earlier this week that so far I haven't had any problems with Apria -- but I didn't get my CPAP equipment through them so maybe that makes a difference. I have had 2 overnight oximeter tests as well as a few months of nightly oxygen use that were all provided by Apria. The customer service people have been very professional and pleasant and they have been very quick to deliver and pick up equipment. The guy who set up the oxygen and explained how to use it was very friendly. So as I said, maybe I would be feeling differently if I had my CPAP through Apria, but for other things, so far I can't complain. Hope all goes well with you!