Is ths unusual?

[Sneezie]

When I went for my tiration (Oct.14) study the next morning the sleep tech had all of my equipment there to take home. He had the prescription from the Dr. ahead of time. I never met with DME, wasn't given any choices. I found out yesterday that I bought the machine. I didn't even know I was buying it. How can the Dr. write the prescription ahead of time without the results from the tiration study? Every post I read says that people have their study, then they get the prescripton, and then they meet with DME. Also, when I spoke to DME yesterday they said they are sending me out a new shipment of stuff: a hose, pillows for my mask (which I just got a week ago) Do I need this stuff already? Thanks!

[Snoredog]

Can be many factors, your experience probably more the exception than the rule. How severe your condition was can play a part. Not difficult writing the script to say "set pressure according to PSG results". Most labs have a doctor who can interpret the results of the PSG. Don't worry, they don't do that interpretation of the PSG for free, there was a $500 bill to my insurance for that alone.

My experience was the complete opposite of yours. I had Apria, I had my machine a good 5 months before they ever got around to even calling me for equipment. My PSG was in December, purchased my own machine in May from cpap.com, got tired of waiting for that dysfunctional Apria. Seriously, took them more than 5 months before they ever got around to calling me for my 45-minute therapy class and to pick up my machine. So after they call, I made the appointment for the following week, they called a week later day of the appointment to cancel because RT couldn't make it, they said I could drive another 80 miles to an alternate Apria location. So I made an appointment again the following week this time not showing up.

So they call several days later, hey you never showed up to pick up your machine? Told them now you know how it feels and where you can stick your machine.

[kteague]

Hi. I applaud that you didn't have to go thru the ordeal that we customarily hear about. At least you weren't told you have a life threatening condition then told they'd do something about it in a few months. Now, not to sound like there is no pleasing me, but you should have been instructed, as with any purchase, their return policy. If you weren't even aware it was a purchase rather than a rented item, either you were too sleepy to grasp all the info or you weren't informed. (I was in such a fog I couldn't swear to what was said or not said.) I think of how some insurance companies push you to settle quickly after an accident because they don't want you to have time to get counsel or think about your options too much. I was recently rear-ended and the other driver's insurance was soooo accomodating and efficient and concerned - until we got down to business, then were were still polite but very businesslike and stern. I realized that their efficiency was not for my benefit. Thirty days may not mean anything in this case, but I would immediately find out your options if there is any chance you are not satisfied that the machine and equipment you received is what you want to live with for a very long time. And your insurance should have a schedule of when they pay for replacement supplies. It's wonderful your apnea was treated right away, but that should not negate your choice as a patient to have input into your treatment - especially since this item was purchased. Customer satisfaction is still your right. If you are satisfied with what you've been given, jump up on a table and do a celebratory dance! There are those out there who really do jump thru hoops to see that their patients' needs are met. Maybe you got one of the good ones.

[Sneezie]

You are right I am very glad that this has been a hassle free process considering all of the posts I have read about other DMEs. I know for sure he did not tell me I was buying the equipment, but I was to sleepy to think to ask questions about it. I spoke to my insurance company this morning and they said that the DME has to have a return policy. They said if I get a prescription for the auto I should be able to return what I have now. I left a message for my Dr. to call me about it.