How do you 'influence' the doctor prescription

[TPS316]

I also just told my primary doctor the exact machine to get. She had no problems writing the script... Here in Utah if it is just a generic script you get the cheapest CPAP they can find. But if the script is written to the exact make,model, etc that is what you get...

[Scootergirl]

Same here - got a brick, called my primary and she called back with a "just tell me what you need and we'll write the script" message. They also called back three times to make sure of the mask, etc. Do as much research as you can so you know what you need and want.

[Tino2You]

I really don't know what my doctor wrote on my script as it was faxed directly over to the DME. But, when I talked to the DME on the phone I asked what machine they wanted to give me. When they told me an outdated model, I said "No, I want THIS machine." She said she would check and I received the call back next day saying they could order the machine I wanted.

Ladyflower, Be careful. DMEs will lie to your face. Make sure the machine you want is the one they give you. I was told, to my face, the S9 Escape records the same data as the S9 AutoSet. No it does not. Once you accept a machine it is harder for you to return it and get what you want.

-tino

[dvejr]

Don't need a script from a sleep doctor. I went to my primary care doctor and we sat down, he asked me what I wanted him to write on my script.

Excellent point. Deal as much as possible with your primary care physician, with whom you probably have a longer-term and more familiar relationship. A "sleep doctor" pretty much has to believe s/he knows more than the patient does about what the condition is, and what treatment is needed. The PCP doesn't have an ego invested in pooh-poohing the knowledge you've learned here.