Hubby new to CPAP, I use PB 420E, DME saying S8 Elite

I've been on my CPAP for about a year now, and I use a Puritan Bennett 420E, very happily. My hubby recently had his sleep study and will be on CPAP as well. My recommendation was to use the same model - parts interchangeable, I know how to work it, etc. However, the DME says they ONLY carry Resmed and want to put him on S8 Elite.

Well, I see red flags when someone says they ONLY carry one manufacturer, number one. Two, I'm not inclined to support Resmed right now. HOWEVER, I want the best treatment for hubby and the posts I've read have positive things to say about the S8. I'm definitely telling him to push for the auto version instead if we do go with them. But, wanted some expert opinions on whether it's better to get the same machine as I have or not.

I have had great service from billmyinsurance.com, so have told hubby we can go through them and get what we want as long as he gets a copy of his prescription. I told him to get that from his doc anyway, as he should have a copy.

Thanks

If your insurance (or private pay) will accept more than one DME, it may be a good idea to shop around. The Resmed S8 Elite with heated humidifier is what I have and is the top of the line.

Get whatever makes you comfortable.

I can't see why if you like the PB model and know how to use it you shouldn't get another like it. Interchangable parts are a wonderful thing, especially when one of you runs out of a filter or some other part breaks. If one machine dies, then you may have extra parts for the other (I am thinking humidifier...)

I am also wary of a DME who says they only can get one brand. And I too am not particularly eager to support Resmed.

Go with you gut.

All DME's should be able to get any brand of CPAP machine in. They may have to order it. I only carry one brand in stock, but can order any type of machine within a few days. In cases where patients want other brands I loan them a machine until I get theirs in.

Thanks - I appreciate the feedback from both of you

Kansas RT - thanks for the info. That was my thought, that they could order something else, but wasn't sure. Hubby is going to try and stop by this evening, just to see what they have and ask some more questions before we commit to anything. He did say the sleep tech at his titration study commented that he had a lot of fluctuation in his sleep patterns, and that an auto might be best. Another reason for us to push for the auto, whether the same as I have or another brand.

Thanks again - this forum was great for me when I got started and I know y'all will help me get hubby up to speed quickly.

Karen

Actually, I think your major consideration (except for comfort) should not be the parts as much as the software.

If you buy a Resmed machine, you'll need to buy a copy it their software, which they no longer sell on the net. Will that DME sell it to you?

Even on the net it would cost aroun $100 more, and then theirs installing it on the computer - no problem if you each have your own, of a hassle if you share one.

Looks like the DME is returning Resmed's favor, doesn't it?

O.

ozij beat me to the punch talking about software.

Do you have the Silverlining software for your 420e? If so, then it sure seems like it would make sense to get your husband a 420e also and ya'll can share the software for zero cost. If you don't then ya'll could order one copy and both use it.

Also, you know what to expect from the 420e and have experience with it. Both of those intangibles are worth mega$$ IMHO.

Best of luck to both of ya'll!

Kajun

This therapy WORKS!!!

Thanks, Ozij and Kajun!

I do have the Silverlining software, and had forgotten that Resmed no longer sells it. I doubt the DME would sell it to us, but we can ask. Of course, despite my having the software I haven't seemed to get around to installing it and using it..... I know, my bad

They did tell hubby last night that they can order any machine, and would get us the PB if we want it. They have Resmed machines and parts in stock at all times, so that would be an advantage to it. But, for us looking at his data sticking with the PB seems best.

I will say I'm very pleased with his experience so far with this DME - and wish I had been referred to them when I started! They have been willing to answer all his questions, spent quite a bit of time with him last evening and we haven't bought anything from them as yet. The Resmed machine is actually more expensive than the PB, so their profit doesn't seem to be a barrier to us getting what we want. He asked about battery power, as he goes to Mexico over spring break with our church youth group to build houses and they have no electric. The RT said they will give him a loaner for the trip at no charge. That won some kudos in my book.

Anyway, thanks for the advice - it will help us sit down and make our decision.

Karen