DME and FFM

[DJ_Boxer]

I recently had a bad cold that where as of the past week I couldn't use either my nasal masks from a stuffed up nose. I was able to get a script from my Doctor for a Fisher & Paykel 431 but: "because they have not fitted me with full face mask before they have to come over and fit me with it before I get it". I asked for the 431 because it comes automatically with all three cushion sizes. Is this normal procedure from a DME especially with masks that come with multiple sizes in the same box. I already mentioned who my DME is in another post but my insurance is Federal Blue Cross/Blue Shield and was also wondering if they would re-imburse me if I ordered online through cpap.com?

DJ

[Autopapdude]

Call their reimbursement department and ask about durable medical reimbursements. I have no idea about Blue Cross, but United Healthcare pays 80% on durables. I self-pay, and then send the bill to them for reimbursement. It depends on your policy with Blue Cross, so call them with your policy number and group number to get more information. A lot depends on your specific contract--tons of different groups within Blue Cross, with different policies.

[cinco777]

DJ_Boxer wrote

Is this normal procedure from a DME especially with masks that come with multiple sizes in the same box.

There are a number of considerations re you deciding what is the best course of action re fitting the mask, either by yourself, or with the help of the DME:

1) Being a new user, are you up to fitting it yourself? with the help offered in CPAPTalk postings? and/or posting your own "I need help" questions?
2) If you want face-to-face help from a person then consider the DME. Be aware, however, that it is very likely that the DME person will not know much more than you do about fitting masks, especially a specific one like the F&P 431 FF mask. Additionally, the DME may, after ?fitting? your mask take the "leftover" sizes with them as "you won't need these". If you do get a DME fitting, don't let them take back the other sizes as they are yours, plus the DME fitting may not work for you and a different size seal may be required. If you have all the seals, you can try others and decide yourself which size works best.

[DJ_Boxer]

Well the thing is they fitted me on the first day I got the equipment with a FlexiFit 407 but recently switched to the Opus 360 which I was able to fit myself at home. I am at work now and don't have their number with me but will try and call them when I get home and see if I can fit it myself because I know you need to try each size for atleast one night to see if it seals properly.

DJ

[cinco777]

DJ_Boxer wrote

because I know you need to try each size for atleast one night to see if it seals properly.

This is not the recommended approach. The recommended approach is to fit your mask during a non-stressful time of the day like the afternoon when you have plenty of time with no sleep deadline approaching. Fit your mask standing up or sitting down and hook up to your machine, turn it on, and check for leaks. If lots of leakage, try repositioning the mask and adjusting the headgear. If there are still leaks, try another size seal if they were provided with your mask (there are 3 sizes provided for the F&P 431). If no leaks, then lay down and check for leaks. If there are leaks, try to reposition the mask. It that doesn't work, get up and readjust the headgear/chinstrap (if you are using one)/etc. Then repeat the process. If when laying down, there are no leaks, try one of your other sleeping positions and see if leaks develop. Try repositioning your mask first and if that doesn't help, try tightening or loosening the straps and see if that helps. If you have your head against a pillow when sleeping, try resting your head on the pillow in different positions on the pillow until you find both a comfortable neck resting position and one without leaks. It took me an hour my first afternoon to adjust my F&P 431 FF mask to not leak when laying down and changing sleeping positions. Since then, I have tweaked it a little now and then, necessary because my headgear is wearing and losing its stretchiness.

There are many postings on this site re fitting masks in general and for specific masks. Check them out - you won't be disappointed. Best of luck and success in finding the right mask for you.

[cpapquuen1]

DJ_Boxer~
Inquiring minds wnat to know.....are you new to the DC area and recently joined the country station here??

[cpapqueen1]

The 431 is not the best full face mask outh there for most people. Yes the 3 cushions is a box is convenient, but it really leaks alot on the majority of people. I love the quattros, but the Respironics fit life is up there too! Good Luck!

[LinkC]

The 431 is not the best full face mask outh there for most people.

I'm guessing there isn't ANY mask that's the best "for most people". It only has to be the best for ONE person...that's the person wearing it...and second guessing for a stranger you've never seen is kinda...you know...