Machine Question

[Pbrael]

Hello All
I was recently diagnosed with Sleep Apnea earlier this month after a sleep study in sleep lab. My AHI was 27.8 mostly hyponea's.
I have been lurking on the boards for a few weeks trying to find all of the information out that I can before having to pick out a machine and related supplies. It really helps to have a source of knowledge that is based on first hand observation and that has no financial incentive at stake. My Titration study was performed last week, and when I had the follow up on 3/24 and found out my prescribed pressure was 12 cm. I have a copy of the script the Dr wrote and he has two machines listed (both respironics): Model DS460HS, and Model DS560HS. My understanding is both of these machines will display full data, and the only difference is that the 560 is an Auto machine. Is this correct? If both machines are listed on the script specifically, and the script is marked "Dispense as written" is it my choice? I would much prefer the auto. Better to have and not need, then to not have and need.

[Pugsy]

I have a copy of the script the Dr wrote and he has two machines listed (both respironics): Model DS460HS, and Model DS560HS. My understanding is both of these machines will display full data, and the only difference is that the 560 is an Auto machine. Is this correct?

Yes, it is correct. Both are full data machines.
The model 560 is like 2 machines in one. It has same CPAP mode that the 460 offers plus it also offers the auto adjusting pressure mode referred to as APAP.

I don't know what it means when there are 2 machine models shown on a DAW script...if it has a range of pressures then the DME would have to supply the 560...don't know about if it shows a single pressure...like whose choice is it..yours or DME.
I would just tell them I want the 560 and if they don't want my business I can take it to someone who does want my business and will give me what I want.
If they balk about a single pressure being written on the RX..if that is what is there...just tell them fine..still dispense the 560 but set it in cpap mode at the RX setting. They can do that if they just would.

[Bama Rambler]

Given that you have the option, definitely go with the 560. Don't let the DME talk you out of it.

Too bad the doc didn't write TS (i.e DS560TS) instead of HS on the script as that would give you the heated hose option, however, it's only a $65 addition to add it. I'd even try to get the DME to give you that option to begin with.

Just to reiterate, get the 560.

[jencat824]

Welcome to the forum!

If I were in your place, I'd definitely get the 560, that's what I have & the auto is great to have, even if you dr starts you on straight CPAP. You may start at 12, but with the 560 and the knowledge of some of the folks on this forum, you may want to consider going to auto. I agree with you, its better to have & not need, than to need & not have.

Do you have any questions about masks? You may want to browse our host's site, CPAP.com to view various new & popular masks. You may also think about the type of mask you want/need. See the different categories there & come back here with any questions you may have. Don't be shy, if you've been lurking you know newbies have lots of question & that is natural. We are all here to help each other.

Once you get equipment, please list it in the User Control Panel at the top left of this page. Also make sure to put somewhere in your signature line that your pressure is 12, that will give anyone helping you thru a problem the knowledge they need. That helps us all to know what you have when we respond to each others questions.

Jen

[chunkyfrog]

+100

[Tino2You]

One more thing. When you request the 560 be firm and don't let the DME wiggle out of giving you one. Also, when they take the unit out of the box to show you how it works, ask them to display the "hours in use" number. Every machine has one, don't pay for a new machine and get a used one.

-tino

[Guest]

Thanks for all the replies. I will certainly post any additional questions that come up (I am sure there will be a few!)
I tried on four masks the night of the titration study, and the only one I liked was the resumed Quattro, with the next being one that covered the whole nose (I think it was called a whisp). I absolutely hated the ones that just stick in your nose. I will be sure to ask the DME what they have, and try a few more. I will definitely insist on the 560 even if they set it to a straight reassure, and to make them show me the hours of use on the machine. Shouldn't the price be lower for a used machine? Is there any thing to look out on used machines besides being charged the price of a new one? I am not opposed to use as long as it is priced like an used machine and sanitary.

[chunkyfrog]

Insurance pays for a new machine. (If you have it)
Out of pocket, you could get a deal on a used machine.
Compare prices at secondwind dot com with whatever is available.
Our hosts, cpap dot com, sell new equipment at good prices.
I've bought machines from them.

[Islandwoman]

I called my doctor and asked for a heated hose with the 560 and he simply faxed the Rx to the DME. Nothing to lose by trying.