S8 verses REMstar Auto

Tell your DME to stop blowing smoke up your ass. The S8 Elite (without card reader and software) is a more expensive machine than a fully loaded M-series auto WITH card reader and software.

For the record, I found a reader and software for the S8 for just under $200 US shipped. And another fine user suggested a different reader would work, bringing the total price down about another $50 or $60.

Plus, you can get AI, HI, AHI, leaks, mask fit and usage from the onscreen clinical menu for free from the S8 Elite and (I presume) the Vangard (just hit it before noon).

I don't rate the company very highly but I do like my machine.

sleepyWI wrote:Tell your DME to stop blowing smoke up your ass. The S8 Elite (without card reader and software) is a more expensive machine than a fully loaded M-series auto WITH card reader and software.

Stop blowing smoke up his @$$.

More expensive to us. ResMed recently bumped their internet prices about 40%, but apparently not to DMEs since they are so inclined to promote this brand.

[quote="Slinky"]I would just like to clarify one thing as you are ruling out one darn good machine that provides EXCELLENT data and EASY TO INSTALL AND USE SOFTWARE when you rule out a "Resmed S8".

There is more than one Resmed S8. The Resmed S8 VANTAGE is an AutoPAP and as good as ANY AutoPAP on the market. It is every bit equivalent to the RemStar Auto w/C-Flex, classic or M series. It has an easier to read LED screen, and more information available easier via the LED screen than the Respironics. And this may or may not make up for its EPR not being available in Auto mode whilst the C-Flex is available in Auto mode on the Respironics since you don't seem to have a need for the expiratory relief given your scripted pressure is a straight 9 cms.

And if you look around in the right places, I bought my AutoScan 5.7 software and cable reader CHEAPER brand new out of the box than any prices I saw for the EncorePro and cable reader.

As far as your FAX. I don't think I would make any mention of my having access to and use of the software. The full data capabilities are what is important FOR YOUR DOCTOR TO MONITOR AND TO ADEQUATELY TREAT YOU. Like the data will help HER to better treat you.

Good news?

I just spoke with my DME. Although the doctor did not write a new prescription, I told her that I definitely want the REMstar auto. She said, "I'll have to check and see if we even carry it." After a moment on hold she said, "Yes, we can get that for you. I'll put the insurance authorization through, which will take a couple of days, then we'll get back with you to schedule delivery."

THANK YOU everyone for your encouragement to hold the line.

Also, as I mentioned in another thread, my sleep lab has volunteered to do a mask fitting for me, even though they know I'll be using another DME. This is a courtesy in light of the difficulties I experienced during my sleep study.

One step closer to a good night's sleep.

Jeff

Very good news, Jeff!

The DME can set it in either of two ways to handle the prescribed pressure of 9 cm H20.

In APAP mode (auto-titrating cpap) set for 4 - 20. That will encompass the "9" cm.

That can always be changed later to whatever range suits you best.

or

In CPAP mode set at 9.

Autopaps are very versatile machines -- can be set to auto-titrate or be set to work as a straight cpap.

Sounds like your doctor, your sleep lab and your DME (with your input and persistence) are being very helpful. That's great to hear!

[quote="Snoredog"][quote="Slinky"]

Rastaman wrote:Anyway, I'm going to buy a back-up at some point and I'm curious what steps I need to take. Do I need a prescription to buy a 2nd one?

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I'd rather keep it simple, buy online, and be done with it.

If you're going to buy online, you definitely would not need a new prescription. A single copy of your old prescription will let you buy another machine online. That's where I buy all my equipment...online.