Need a new mask fast!

I have been having a major problem getting a replacement mask recently. I was originally a CPAP and mask 9 years ago, and got a replacement mask about 4 years ago when the first one disintegrated. Now the last bits of tape are not enough to keep the replacement mask together, and I need another mask in a hurry, but it appears that getting a mask now requires a prescription for some reason. My primary care physician will not give me one, and my specialist (who gave me the initial prescription) hasn't seen me in so long, they destroyed my records. I really don't want to go through getting the time and effort of getting another visit with the specialist (which may require another sleep study) to get another mask. I'm already suffering massive headaches and backaches from this last mask going bad.

Does anyone have any recommendation how to get a mask more quickly and/or without a prescription? I have friends in Canada who could ship things to me if that is even an option. I'm poor, so I can't just throw lots of money at the problem, either. Help!

I can't speak for all DMEs but I walked into a local one that opened recently and was told that they need a prescription for machines, but not masks. Have you called around your area?

It looks like not all vendors require it, despite their statements that it is required by law. I have since put an overnight order in with cpapxchange.com, and hopefully, it will get here before I leave for Thanksgiving. I'm still so frustrated with the runaround I received trying to get the prescription.

Rule 2: Keep a spare mask on hand.

Rule 3: Keep a copy of your CPAP prescription on hand.

Rule 1: Love your CPAP!

Try Amazon.com. I recently bought a Comfort Lite 2 mask with 3 sizes of pillows, and no prescription was required.

masaokun wrote:I have been having a major problem getting a replacement mask recently. I was originally a CPAP and mask 9 years ago, and got a replacement mask about 4 years ago when the first one disintegrated. Now the last bits of tape are not enough to keep the replacement mask together, and I need another mask in a hurry, but it appears that getting a mask now requires a prescription for some reason. My primary care physician will not give me one, and my specialist (who gave me the initial prescription) hasn't seen me in so long, they destroyed my records. I really don't want to go through getting the time and effort of getting another visit with the specialist (which may require another sleep study) to get another mask. I'm already suffering massive headaches and backaches from this last mask going bad.

Does anyone have any recommendation how to get a mask more quickly and/or without a prescription? I have friends in Canada who could ship things to me if that is even an option. I'm poor, so I can't just throw lots of money at the problem, either. Help!

Check out cpapauction.com I don't know what type of mask you are looking for. I just got a Mirage Swift II for $22.09 plus $6.95 shipping from the auction site today. No prescription and no tax.

Ed

There are a lot of suppliers on the internet that do not require a prescription for masks. I recently purchased a mask from http://www.activeforever.com/. No Rx was required, and I received it quickly. I used coupon code "fall10" and got 10% off.

~ DreamOn