Dissappointing doctor

[elader]

Funny followup with the sleep doc. About 6 weeks since I went on the machine. Severe OSA, 74.5 index, 80% O2 each time, etc. He is happy I am using my machine everynight. Truthfully, you couldnt pry it away from me at this point, I feel so much better. But I asked him for my prescription so I could have it in the event I needed a backup machine or wanted to buy it not at my DME and he wouldnt give it to me. Said if I needed it he would have to see me again (and collect another office visit fee). He also dismissed my desire to monitor my treatment on a data capable machine as silly. "You use the machine, you feel better, thats all you need to know". Almost as funny is his response to my question about what do I do if I have a head cold. "Juast dont use the machine for a few days, so what, you'll just be tired during the day"/ OK, WTF? Once I am among the living, the thought of a few days of bad sleep, night sweat, severe acid reflux, exhaustion is just not acceptable. I was frankly amazed at his attitude. Is it becuase I was such an easy 'cure'??

I doubt I will see this guy again unless I need the scrip.

[nosbig17]

It's good to hear that you are doing so well!

While our brand of socialized medicine still allows it, you might consider going to another MD (doesn't have to be a sleep specialist) and getting a scrip for what you want. A back up system is a good idea. Also something to wake you up when the power fails, unless you have an automatic emergency generator.

Most likely, you will join many of us on the quest to find that illusive perfect interface.

[papdad]

Got a copy of my script from my DME -- wouldn't hurt to try.
Luck, Norm

[boston]

for when i have a cold/allergies whatever I got a full face mask so i can still use my apap. my allergies had me stuffed up for a week, and i felt horrible between the allergies and not using my apap. i also need a copy of my script, need to do that soon....

[Wulfman]

Funny followup with the sleep doc. About 6 weeks since I went on the machine. Severe OSA, 74.5 index, 80% O2 each time, etc. He is happy I am using my machine everynight. Truthfully, you couldnt pry it away from me at this point, I feel so much better. But I asked him for my prescription so I could have it in the event I needed a backup machine or wanted to buy it not at my DMA and he wouldnt give it to me. Said if I needed it he would have to see me again (and collect another office visit fee). He also dismissed my desire to monitor my treatment on a data capable machine as silly. "You use the machine, you feel better, thats all you need to know". Almost as funny is his response to my question about what do I do if I have a head cold. "Juast dont use the machine for a few days, so what, you'll just be tired during the day"/ OK, WTF? Once I am among the living, the thought of a few days of bad sleep, night sweat, severe acid reflux, exhaustion is just not acceptable. I was frankly amazed at his attitude. Is it becuase I was such an easy 'cure'??

I doubt I will see this guy again unless I need the scrip.

They're required by law to give you your prescription. (It's good with online sellers for "life")
I'd go into the office waiting room and ask the receptionist for your prescription......they shouldn't require you to pay for a visit to get it......you've already done that. Remember, THEY work for YOU and you've already paid for it.

Den

[Pineapple]

I agree with Wulfman about the script, you have a legal right to it. Your not asking for a new script, you shouldn't be charged for it.

It may be they simply didn't keep a copy of it in thier records. In that case going to your DME for a copy might provide an easier option. If you travel you need a copy of your script, my DME happily gave me a copy of it.

[Slinky]

Grrrrrrr. Doctors like you have encountered just wave red flags at me!!! I almost ENJOY "doing battle" w/them. I've hated doctors like this all my life! If you are in the USA you have a LEGAL RIGHT to that prescription. Wicked witch that I am, I would sit down and write a letter requesting not only the script but also a copy of the doctor's dictated results (1-2 pages each) AND the full scored data summary report w/condensed graphs (5+ pages each) from both my sleep evaluation AND my titration studies. And I'd be doing it just plain for spite because I could, because I have a legal right to them under HIPAA, because he doesn't want to give them to me when I asked for it and because of that I WANT them. I would refer to my rights to these copies under HIPAA and send the letter Certified, Return Receipt Requested. Be diplomatic in your letter. If he doesn't complay you will want to file a complaint w/the Department of Health and Human Services under HIPAA and will need to provide a copy of your written request, proof of receipt, etc. Fortunately, most people aren't as spiteful as I am but I do NOT like being treated like this by anyone much less someone I am PAYING!!

Probably the easiest way to get a copy of your script is to ask your DME supplier for a copy of their copy. Or ask your family doctor to write a script. But I just can NOT bring myself to put up w/being treated that way be some "professional" ?? I am PAYING. I WILL be treated w/respect and in turn will treat them w/respect - but they'd better earn that respect.

[elader]

I agree with Wulfman about the script, you have a legal right to it. Your not asking for a new script, you shouldn't be charged for it.

It may be they simply didn't keep a copy of it in thier records. In that case going to your DME for a copy might provide an easier option. If you travel you need a copy of your script, my DME happily gave me a copy of it.

Well........ my DME says they can't find it. Obviously they had it, they sold me a machine, but they can't find it now . Found a M series Auto A-flex at a good price with 20 hours on it, so I am set for backup.

[papdad]

Sorry for my short post earlier ( was late for an appointment ) and welcome to new world that can be somewhat overwhelming. Am relatively new to the Apnea thing but not to dealing with doctors, etc. I am currently in a position similar to yours and will offer my thoughts based on my humble opinion. You need to, if you don't already, get detailed copies of your sleep study results. You will need these for your new doctor. Do a little research and start calling doctor's offices that propose to treat "sleep disorders". Ask if they actually review a patients machine data on an ongoing basis and treat based on that review. If they say no, as your current doctor does not, then keep calling. When you do find one that does then make an appointment to go see him/her. Take copies of your sleep studies and information as to the machine that you currently have and it's current setting. If he/she feels that the current type machine that you have is correct for you then go back to your DME and request a data capable machine -- Pro rather than Plus. If they refuse then return your machine and go elsewhere -- your new doctor or your PCP can write you a new script. Life is simply too short and this apnea thing is just too serious to mess with. After all that, should you want to, you can purchase a card reader and software to trace your results yourself but don't start out trying to.
Just my thoughts and opinions, Norm

[elader]

Sorry for my short post earlier ( was late for an appointment ) and welcome to new world that can be somewhat overwhelming. Am relatively new to the Apnea thing but not to dealing with doctors, etc. I am currently in a position similar to yours and will offer my thoughts based on my humble opinion. You need to, if you don't already, get detailed copies of your sleep study results. You will need these for your new doctor. Do a little research and start calling doctor's offices that propose to treat "sleep disorders". Ask if they actually review a patients machine data on an ongoing basis and treat based on that review. If they say no, as your current doctor does not, then keep calling. When you do find one that does then make an appointment to go see him/her. Take copies of your sleep studies and information as to the machine that you currently have and it's current setting. If he/she feels that the current type machine that you have is correct for you then go back to your DME and request a data capable machine -- Pro rather than Plus. If they refuse then return your machine and go elsewhere -- your new doctor or your PCP can write you a new script. Life is simply too short and this apnea thing is just too serious to mess with. After all that, should you want to, you can purchase a card reader and software to trace your results yourself but don't start out trying to.
Just my thoughts and opinions, Norm

Yeah, I have the study results. I will use the M Auto for a while, check out the results, and see if I I seem to need a new doc. I feel pretty good. If the machine backs up this with data, I am content for now.

[nomoore]

Yeah, I have the study results. I will use the M Auto for a while, check out the results, and see if I I seem to need a new doc. I feel pretty good. If the machine backs up this with data, I am content for now.

Yeah but if you are not content later then it will be even harder to get the script. Get it now. You are entitled to it. It is law. It is "Protected Health Information" and you are entitled to it by the HIPAA (hip-uh, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act). They are required to get it to you within 30 days of your request. Documentation is key.

[MurphysLaw]

... going to your DME for a copy might provide an easier option. If you travel you need a copy of your script, my DME happily gave me a copy of it.

The copy of my script that the DME faxed to me has the word "ILLEGAL" encrypted into the background. Is that worth anything? Will it be accepted if I fax it on to another DME or online supplier? Has anyone done this?

[cat lady]

Hmm..... Just a thought..... If the doctor is this much of a jerk from the get go, heaven forbid you should EVER have any problems or ever need him to really play it straight with you. Just another thought....a doctor that doesn't want to share his knoledge allowing you to understand how to maintain your problem will always be there for his fees for those extra little visits that if you had the information you could probably address yourself. He may have you feeling better now but he is not part of your solution.

[elader]

... going to your DME for a copy might provide an easier option. If you travel you need a copy of your script, my DME happily gave me a copy of it.

The copy of my script that the DME faxed to me has the word "ILLEGAL" encrypted into the background. Is that worth anything? Will it be accepted if I fax it on to another DME or online supplier? Has anyone done this?

wow that's cold.

[Snoredog]

I'd go by the Sleep Lab and pick up a copy of your PSG and tells that silly SOB to stick his practice where the sun don't shine.

This is where you take that Rental machine back to the DME and sit it on the counter, take the study to your GP and have
them write you a script for an Autopap and manage your own care.