DME was PISSED.

My first post. I'm waiting for my DME to get my S8 Autoset in as I had to argue that the S8 Escape wasn't coming home with me, then had to get my sleep doc to write me a new script that was more specific. Thanks to having lurked on the forums for a couple weeks I felt prepared to have an educated discussion with both the DME and my doc. I've had some sinus problems and wanted an APAP to minimize the pressure if I could manage to stay on my side. I could tell the doc wasn't 100% sold on my idea and mentioned it would cost more, BUT he didn't argue. He just said "if you'll wear it, I'll write you a script for one". Ahh..you had me at "I'll write you the script".

After reading so many posts these past few weeks I think you start to assume many are like us. But...I think this thread really points out how untrue that is. We are a unique nerd herd. We are not sheep that wish to blindly follow along without asking questions. We actually get that uninformed people don't get as good medical care as those that ask questions and research what they are told. I have no doubt users of this forum would be nowhere close to the "normal" data plot for compliance as you all work so hard to make your therapy work for you.

I was a bit sad and depressed when I realized I'd be stuck with a machine for the rest of my life. When I feel blue I just think that someday the fuzzy brain will clear up, and a ton of people just like me (and some good RT's and DME's too) have all gathered together to help one another try to live better and healthier lives. Dec. 7th my equipment shows up and life will change, but knowing you all are here gives me hope.

Vallan wrote:My first post. I'm waiting for my DME to get my S8 Autoset in as I had to argue that the S8 Escape wasn't coming home with me, then had to get my sleep doc to write me a new script that was more specific. Thanks to having lurked on the forums for a couple weeks I felt prepared to have an educated discussion with both the DME and my doc. I've had some sinus problems and wanted an APAP to minimize the pressure if I could manage to stay on my side. I could tell the doc wasn't 100% sold on my idea and mentioned it would cost more, BUT he didn't argue. He just said "if you'll wear it, I'll write you a script for one". Ahh..you had me at "I'll write you the script".

After reading so many posts these past few weeks I think you start to assume many are like us. But...I think this thread really points out how untrue that is. We are a unique nerd herd. We are not sheep that wish to blindly follow along without asking questions. We actually get that uninformed people don't get as good medical care as those that ask questions and research what they are told. I have no doubt users of this forum would be nowhere close to the "normal" data plot for compliance as you all work so hard to make your therapy work for you.

I was a bit sad and depressed when I realized I'd be stuck with a machine for the rest of my life. When I feel blue I just think that someday the fuzzy brain will clear up, and a ton of people just like me (and some good RT's and DME's too) have all gathered together to help one another try to live better and healthier lives. Dec. 7th my equipment shows up and life will change, but knowing you all are here gives me hope.

Welcome, Vallan! We are glad to have you here. It's good to hear that you researched before you met with the DME! It sounds like you know exactly what we've been talking about! It shouldn't be such a struggle. You're getting a great machine, and I think you'll be happy with your choice.

With your positive attitude, I know you'll do well. There is a period of adjustment, but the benefits are SO worth it!!! I can't believe what a difference it has made in the way I feel, and I've only been using CPAP for a little over a month. My fuzzy brain started to clear right away, and I have more energy than I have in years.

There are worse things than having to sleep with a machine for 8 hours. Like being dead from the consequences of untreated sleep apnea.

Best wishes,

DreamOn

Vallan wrote:... having lurked on the forums for a couple weeks I felt prepared to have an educated discussion with both the DME and my doc. I've had some sinus problems and wanted an APAP to minimize the pressure if I could manage to stay on my side. I could tell the doc wasn't 100% sold on my idea and mentioned it would cost more, BUT he didn't argue. He just said "if you'll wear it, I'll write you a script for one". ...

Bingo! "If you wil wear it..." That is the key. Way, way too many patients give up. They give up for a variety of problems, such as sinus issues. Or masks that fit poorly, or ...

This is no different than dealing with diabetes. If you don't manage it, it will kill you. There are some shocking numbers that back up that bold claim:

http://sleepdisorders.about.com/od/slee ... yapnea.htm
http://www.healthkey.com/men/sns-health ... 5130.story
http://www.emaxhealth.com/107/4299.html
http://www.pslgroup.com/dg/fc0b2.htm
http://www.reuters.com/article/healthNe ... CP20090818

You might want to provide this to the RT at the DME. They should know this, but all too often we (people in general) tend to focus on our needs, not maximizing the solution for the person we are helping. EVERYONE does this. It takes a conscious desire to try to see things from the perspective of the person we are helping. We can balance our need with their needs. And generally, that makes everyone happier.

Vallan wrote:... We are a unique nerd herd. We are not sheep that wish to blindly follow along without asking questions. ...

How much do you want to bet most respiratory therapists find that far, far too many of their patients / clients could care less about the details. These are the "set it and forget it" crowd. They don't want to be bothered. And they certainly don't want to take responsibility for their own health.

We clearly do. We are trying to change things. But I bet that is a fairly small percentage of their patients.

Vallan wrote:I was a bit sad and depressed when I realized I'd be stuck with a machine for the rest of my life. When I feel blue I just think that someday the fuzzy brain will clear up, and a ton of people just like me (and some good RT's and DME's too) have all gathered together to help one another try to live better and healthier lives. Dec. 7th my equipment shows up and life will change, but knowing you all are here gives me hope.

I know it is a trivial statement, but just remember that it could be worse, much worse. And that's the point of CPAP. You want to keep it from becoming worse. It will be one way you can reclaim your life.

Welcome Vallan! You're sure on the right track. I have the S8 AutoSet II, and love it. Let us know how it's going for you, after your get your S8.