DME called re: needing new equipment

[Japparis]

They called and left a message asking if I needed any replacements? Should I follow the manual, as far as reordering? I know the DME tries to make money! But, I'd like to have new if it's time. My mask part (silicone) feels like it may be a little stretched. I've had this, new, since August 12th. Do they normally needed to be changed monthly? I have an Aetna Medicare Advantage plan, so I really don't end up paying for too much. Your ideas??

[Pugsy]

Go ahead and get a new cushion since it is allowed.
You always want at least one spare of everything possible.
About all that is allowed after the first 30 days is a new cushion and filters anyway.
You want a spare cushion for sure.

[LSAT]

They need to be changed when they no longer hold a seal....that can be a month for some people it can be 6 months for others. You should make sure you have back ups, because strange things always happen on weekends. As far as other supplies....hoses can last for years as can humidifier tubs. You are right about the DME...they make money when you order and they will be after you every month.

[Pugsy]

Here's the Medicare replacement allowance schedule for each item.

[Dog Slobber]

Order so that you have a spare or two of everything.

But keep using your existing supplies until they actually wear out. Then when they wear out, replace, so you always have spares.

[Japparis]

Thanks for the replies. Much appreciated!

[prodigyplace]

My insurance only covers 80% of the costs. I sometimes find it is less expensive to just buy spares myself without using the insurance.

[D.H.]

You should keep a spare hose, a spare mask, a spare reservoir, and spare filters on hand.

[chunkyfrog]

I keep several headgear clean, springy, and ready to go when my leak rate gets ugly.

[prodigyplace]

I keep several headgear clean, springy, and ready to go when my leak rate gets ugly.

After 2+ years I retired my first P10 headgear. I think insurance allows replacement every 3 months.

[chunkyfrog]

I keep several headgear clean, springy, and ready to go when my leak rate gets ugly.

After 2+ years I retired my first P10 headgear. I think insurance allows replacement every 3 months.

Headgear replacement under Medicare is once every SIX months.
Luckily, my DME will comp the headgear when I get an entire mask. (3 months)
Medicare could save themselves some money if they were a little smarter.
Meanwhile, I will play their silly game . . .

[tisket]

I was surprised to discover that my little mask tube (that connects to the big tube from the machine) had five or six holes in it! I was awake and lying with my arm over my head (I have the tube go up to a Hose Buddy) and felt a breeze on my arm, and thought, that isn't right!

I've been using it for several years and replaced all the other components various times but for some reason I never thought that plastic tube would develop holes like that. When I fill it with water I can see where the water comes out. I can also see the holes when holding the tube up to the light and stretching it out (the holes are between the ribbing).

Guess that explains the leak numbers that started appearing on the machine lately!

[Japparis]

I've found that I can get a new cushion for under $20 on my own. I'll have to ask the DME what the price through insurance would be. I'm also bothered that I didn't receive all the cushions that were supposed to come with my mask. She only have me the one that fit me. Now, I find out that the whole thing comes with 4 different size cushions! Had I bought it on my own, that's what I would have received. Would have been nice to have them in case someone needed one or as an emergency back up for myself. Some nerve, huh? Anyway, thanks for all the great info.

[katebrownell86]

As I have started using the CPAP mask, I want to know one thing. How long a CPAP mask can be used?

[LSAT]

Depends on the mask..Use it until it no longer functions properly.....Mine last over a year with a replacement cushion at 6-8 months.