cpap masks purchase

[sangre]

I would like to know the best place to purchase cpap masks and other products. In addition, what will medicare pay and what is my cost for a mask? How often can I replace my mask, tube, and straps. Your kind responses will be greatly appreciated. One other thing, Is there a local place around the Houston, Texas area where I may be able to visit to purchase these items? Thank you all for your responses.

[nanwilson]

Try reading the info for cpap new users and cpap wiki all of your answers are there.

[Janknitz]

If you expect Medicare to pay, you must use a durable medical equipment (DME) provider who will accept assignment and bill Medicare for you. Generally, this means a brick and mortar store, not online (although there are some online providers who are set up to bill Medicare).

I believe that our hosts (CPAP.com) have a "brick and mortar" store in Houston, and they do accept Medicare there, but NOT online. If their service is anything like it is online, they are a great company to work with.

Medicare has a fixed fee schedule that varies by state. You will only be responsible for 20% of the allowable Medicare fee REGARDLESS of what amount your DME bills for each item (DME's bill a LOT more than they will get paid). There is a published schedule of allowable fees state by state on the Medicare website (but it's difficult to find and use). If you have supplemental insurance (Medigap) they may pay all or part of the 20% co-pay. However, the supplemental insurer may also limit the providers where you can get your equipment and supplies, so be sure to check with them FIRST before agreeing to purchase or rent anything from a DME.

In addition to the wiki you were directed to above, be sure to check out "What you need to know before you meet your DME" on my blog link below. This is CRUCIAL information.

[sangre]

Thank you very much. This site has given me a lot of good information which I was not aware of. I will be posting other questions that may seem simple but I am a new user.

[Sheriff Buford]

I live in the Houston area also. I use Aprea, because my HMO sends me there. They are ok, but educate yourself. To me cpap.com is the best place. They are in the Stafford area (off the southwest freeway), but they will allow to try on different masks and the folks there are real nice, educated and helpful.

Sheriff