What is the data worth?

Steve-o · Post by **Steve-o** » Tue Mar 28, 2006 6:47 pm

My HME gave me a DevilBiss 9001D CPAP and Mirage Full Face mask when I was first diagnosed. No humidifier. No choices on mask.

Thanks to this forum, I have been EMPOWERED!

I paid the HME a visit today and they are ordering me a Comfortlite2 Mask that will be covered by my insurance. This wasn't a mask they carried, but I told them I really wanted one and they agreed to order it for me (also gave me a new hose covered by insurance). WIN #1

Then I asked about getting a heated humidifier (that I know is available for my machine). They said I could get one (also covered by the insurance) and that they were sure they could get the prescription from my doctor (or theirs). So, it is on order. WIN #2

I also recently learned how to set the pressure on the machine (thanks to the advice of folks on the forum). Made a slight adjustment last night and I'm really feeling the positive effects today. WIN #3

Which brings me to the question...
I will soon have a nice mask, a decent machine and a heated humidifier (all covered by insurance). Here's the catch, the machine I have is a straight CPAP and does not collect relevant sleep data. Before I went to the HME today, I was going to order a PB 420E w/heated humidifier so that I'd have the humidifier and be able to collect data and adjust according. So, it appears I have everything I want with the equipment that I have now EXCEPT the data collection.

Is it worth putting out over $700 for an autopap the collects the data so I can make an informed adjustment?
or...
Should I just experiment with what I have now and see how I feel the next day?

I'm considering asking the HME if I can use one of their autopaps (like I did when I was first diagnosed) to see what my pressure should be. It has been about 2 years and 20 pounds since I was last check.

Thanks in advance for any input.
Steve

Goofproof · Post by **Goofproof** » Tue Mar 28, 2006 6:54 pm

The question is, do you want to know about your treatment, or are you happy with someone else controlling your treatment and possiably guessing what works for you, and maybe being wrong.

I want to know, and I want to control! Jim

Linda3032 · Post by **Linda3032** » Tue Mar 28, 2006 6:55 pm

Steve, how old is your current machine? If you just got it, then ask the DME to upgrade it - doesn't hurt to ask.

Probably it's not worth $700 to get a new machine - unless you have money to burn.

Many will disagree with me, but that's just my opinion.

Steve-o · Post by **Steve-o** » Tue Mar 28, 2006 6:57 pm

machine is about 2 years old. Insurance will buy me a new one every 5 years, so I'm on my own for any purchases until 2009.

Brent Hutto · Post by **Brent Hutto** » Tue Mar 28, 2006 7:49 pm

Keep in mind that what matters is your health. If the machine you have now is letting you sleep and is minimizing the effects of your OSA condition then there's not a compelling reason to lay out a bunch of cash for a fancier machine.

I'd say springing out-of-pocket for an APAP would make sense if it avoids the need for another sleep study. Otherwise, it seems overkill at this point in your progress. All of that assumes you're doing well with your current CPAP.