DME issues - not having machine Dr. Ordered

[tricati]

So, I have a small co-op insurance, which seems to only use American Home Patient as their DME in-network. My dr. has proscribed a new machine for me "resmed s10 auto" however, the DME says they do not carry it, and only have the S9 which is basically the same thing.

Has anyone had any experience with American Home Patient, or had something like this happen to them? My thoughts are that if I am going to be paying for a new machine I want the newest technology. Any ideas on what to do?

[LSAT]

If they carry the S9 they have access to the S10 (Airsense 10). Both are from Resmed. Tell them you will call your insurance company and tell them that they refuse to honor your doctor's prescription.

[chunkyfrog]

+1000
No doubt they are trying to unload a warehouse full of old machines.
Remember, the S9 Escape Auto is also considered a brick.

[palerider]

So, I have a small co-op insurance, which seems to only use American Home Patient as their DME in-network. My dr. has proscribed a new machine for me "resmed s10 auto" however, the DME says they do not carry it, and only have the S9 which is basically the same thing.

perhaps they're being pedantic because there is no such thing as a s10 machine. there's an airsense 10 machine...

[chunkyfrog]

You can ask your doctor to "lean on them". Sometimes these jerks need a little fire built under them.
Either that, or you can show up with your pillow and blankie, stating you intend to not leave
until they order the machine your doctor has specified.

[Thewino]

Tricati,

I utilize American Home Patient and have nothing but good things to say about them. Really, their customer service is top-notch the store itself is super clean. As a major bonus, I've never had one problem with them.

My previous DME was completely unreliable, dishonest, and treated people so poorly that I was amazed they had a customer base at all. I choose not do business with them as I didn't care for them to have one dime from me.

I found American Home Patient about one year later and now utilize their services.

If they are able to stock the S9, then they should be able to arrange the option of an AirSense 10 machine for you. Remember to let them know that many years of your business with them hinge on their ability to arrange this.

Because you asked, yes, the S9 AutoSet is a fantastic machine. I own two of them and couldn't be happier.

Good Luck,
TheWino

[englandsf]

Pale Rider's right - they won't find any S10 models. Ask you doctor to issue a new script for a Resmed Airsense 10 specifically and try to get him to specify the climate line hose too.

[bwexler]

What you really want is the AirSense 10 for Her Autoset. It will add another mode which you may or may not need, but that is what auto is all about.