Is my Sleep Doc normal?

Hi everyone. New to cpaptalk, but not to cpap. I'm in my 5th year of usage, but have had my share of frustrations with sleep doctors and dme's.

I require a prescription in order for Medicare to pay for my supplies, so I make the annual trip to the doctor. She reviews my usage, remarks about how well everything looks, and agrees to write a new script. The script she writes is pretty darned specific, right down to the mask model and size. If I want to try out a different mask, I have to get a new script. My DME won't allow my to change anything unless they get a new script.

Several years ago, I had a different doctor who wrote a generic script that allowed me to try anything I wanted in the way of supplies.

Just wondering if other members of this forum have encountered this. Shoot...maybe it's normal?

Thanks for commenting!

Most good doctors will write a generic script.

Those docs who insist on writing scripts that are specific and force you to come back just to try a new mask are just wanting to pad their pocketbook with another office visit.

No...it's not normal. I am still using the same script for "mask of patient's choice" that I got 10 years ago...and I am on Medicare.
I have lost count of the number of different masks I have tried over the years with that same script.

My doctor writes a generic script that states auto cpap, mask of patients choice.. He writes it once when I get a new machine. Every year my DME checks with my PCP to make sure I am using my machine. No new RX is needed. I can change my mask anytime I want without the doctor. I am also on Medicare. If that's all you need the "sleep doctor" for, drop him. Your PCP can do the same thing..cheaper. (Maybe you need a new DME also)

The reason some doctors write specific scripts, is that they're afraid that if they don't the DME will stick you with the cheapest piece of garbage that they can get away with (since the get the same amount anyhow). Also, if you like your mask, they don't want them switching you to another, even if it's theoretically of comparable quality.

Ignore D.H.

Listen to Pugsy and LSAT.

JPB

My original prescription was very specific on the machine and pressure settings but called for mask of choice. It also listed either heated or non heated hose. The prescription I get now simply says CPAP supplies as required.