Lincare and Sleepweaver elan (followup)

[YogaKitty]

I talked to my DME about the elan. She had never heard of it, but found it in the Lincare system. However, they only had the starter kit listed. She said she could make it my "official" mask and I could get a starter kit every six months, and my machine supplies on the regular schedule. But no cushions or anything else inbetween because they don't have them. Unless of course they get added into the system.

I really dislike this entire DME system

[xenablue]

Well... my DME, whom I really like otherwise, informed me that they are no longer even ordering masks from Circadiance (SleepWeaver), so I couldn't get the Elan for my new mask. I ended up settling for an Opus 360, as the Aloha which was my second choice, won't be available with the DME for another month or so.

Just an FYI - I can change my mask every time I'm eligible for one - and I have. Even though I got a SW Advanced last time, I was/am still able to get new nasal pillows for my other masks - a Swift FX and Swift LT - the FX I actually won in a competition which had nothing to do with my DME.

The DME doesn't care which replacements I get, or for which mask/s - as long as it complies with the replacement policy of my insurance company. I don't get replacements every time I'm eligible, just when I need them, and as I rotate masks depending on my allergies, moods, etc. I can get longer time out of the pillows.

I just don't get this "official" mask thing - my DME understands completely that I use several masks (most of the staff there use XPAP), so to have to nominate a certain mask that I can get replacements only for that mask is ridiculous quite frankly.

Cheers,
xena

[chunkyfrog]

We may have to resort to a cushion trading thread.
For instance, if 'Joe blow' can get any Resmed cushion from the DME for a nominal co-pay
(20% of Medicare)--(including FFM cushions); he might happily trade straight across
for élan cushions purchased --wherever! If Mail order isn't in network,
and the network DME isn't willing to serve the patient, the moral thing is to soak 'em!
--and soak them good.

[YogaKitty]

I know, its so aggravating that I can't just order what I want!!

[jen4700]

That totally sucks! My DME will let me get a new cloth part every 3 months. The starter kit has two mask sizes, the plastic hose connector, mini hose and headgear. Once you get your starter kit you could buy replacement cloth part only for $25 at CPAP.com.

[YogaKitty]

I bought the starter kit and a spare cushion from cpap.com. I just wish they were a preferred provider for BCBS o it would be worthwhile to submit it.

[SleepWeaverMarketing]

Good Morning !
I am writing to let you know that Lincare does carry the SleepWeaver line of products.
Please let your Lincare Store know that you are aware that Lincare does order from the Manufacturer of SleepWeaver products - Circadiance.

If you are still not able to have them order what product(s) you need, I will help you.

Please let me know- you can private message me if you like.

Or you can call me - our toll free number is 888-825-9640 and ask for Kathy.

I look forward to talking with you either way.

Kathy

[YogaKitty]

Thank you Kathy for the information. I plan to call them today to discuss supplies. This time I'm calling the national number and not talking to my local RT. I will call you if I need help or PM you.