Poll: Another S8 vs. S9 question costing vs. features

[Roman Hokie]

You all have been so helpful. Here goes.

If I use a local DME provider, my initial outlay is about $55 (Humidifier, Extra Hose (10'), Humidifier Chamber, Mask, 6 disposable filters, and hose insulators) for the S8 Autoset II as they are in-network with a 90/10. Monthly average would be about $12-13 once my deductible is met (using all the CPAP.com pricing as my reference point, may be higher than the network negotiated rates). That deductible is $2500, but I only have to pay the last $1500 of that. My employer pays the first k.

If I use cpap.com for my DME, my initial outlay is about $425 (everything above but with the S9, including the ClimateLine hose) at a 70/30, for the S9 Autoset as they are out of network. Of course, after being reimbursed by my insurance company.

Assuming that the re-ordering of supplies can be done at 90/10 (post deductible) at my local DME, my monthly expense is a bit cheaper ($11.50).

Worth it?

[KatieW]

I'm having trouble sorting out the numbers. What is your bottom line cost for each? And the bigger question--can you afford it?

If you can afford it, go for the S9. If you can't, the S8 will work too.

[Roman Hokie]

Sorry, KatieW. The numbers are how I think and what I need to consider to make the decisions.

CPAP.com offers some pretty basic information (seems to be to me anyway) about the differences in the "compare" options, but was looking for feedback from users who would have strong opinions one way or the other. If that makes sense.

I can afford either unit as long as we get the help from the insurance company, of course. Do you think I'd have the option of purchasing the filters, hoses, masks, reservoir/chamber locally from the in-network provider if I got the S9 from CPAP.com?

[Slinky]

Yes, you could buy the S9 from cpap.com and in the future get your supplies from any local DME supplier as long as you have a copy of your prescription to supply them once a year. Your script is good for life at cpap.com.

[pam933]

I had the S8 and liked it a lot but was having trouble with rainout. My DME ended up switching it to an S9 for me (I think because I kept asking them questions about heated hoses and what length I could use etc. and they felt bad for me). The main advantage that I see is that with the heated hose I don't have a problem with rainout anymore. I also didn't download data with the S8, but I do with the S9 because it has an SD card so I didn't need to buy anything extra.

I'm sure others have strong opinions on this, but I agree with Katie W. - if you can afford the S9 get it, but if not the S8 is a great machine also.

[DreamStalker]

Just get the S9 and get on with your therapy.

This is your health you are dealing with ... it is not like buying a TV.

[jmelby]

I have no regrets for having purchased an S9 out of pocket even though I had an S8 I got paid for by insurance (now my back-up/travel machine). I see no reason a local DME would turn you away to buy masks and supplies from them just because you bought the machine elsewhere--they are a business after all.