Different Masks

RAMBLINMAN · Post by **RAMBLINMAN** » Wed Oct 05, 2005 5:12 pm

Even though I haven't received any cpap equipment yet ( and god knows when that will happen).....there's something I would like to know....

During my 2nd sleep study I started out with a nasal mask and ending up with a full mask...so with that in mind I guess i'm going to be needing a full face mask..( I guess I breathe thru my mouth ).....

Now I hear how alot of people go thru different mask until they are happy be a full or nasal...and from looking on cpap.com these mask are not cheap....

Unless alot on here are millionaires is everyone buying these different mask or does your medicial coverage cover them....I mean what happens if what you receive the first time doesn't work for you what then...?

cmwhatley · Post by **cmwhatley** » Wed Oct 05, 2005 5:54 pm

I just checked with my insurance today (empireblue ppo) and was surprised to find that they'd cover quite a few mask replacements without issue. I was actually calling to see about changing my equipment provider who I am not happy with. The provider had actually told me that there were replacements allowed only every 3 months.

Now that I know this, I'm going to do some serious mask shopping.

Larry · Post by **Larry** » Wed Oct 05, 2005 5:56 pm

To answer your last question first, you buy another mask. Insurance companies will typically pay for one new mask each 6 months. I have over 15 different masks, of which I use 5 on an informal rotation. Each mask is different and none are perfect.

tlc95066 · Post by **tlc95066** » Wed Oct 05, 2005 6:03 pm

Hi Ramblinman,
The sleep clinic that I work with allowed me to continue trying masks that they had in stock until I found one that fit well. They typically have several "trial" masks that they can sanitize between patients. I think I tried 3 different ones before I found the one I use the most. Be insistant! Don't take no for an answer, keep trying until you find one that fits you the best.

Check with your provider and your insurance company to find out what the policy allows for. You may be able to get a new one every 3 months... it just depends upon the insurance policy.

Best of luck to you!
Teri

rock and roll · Post by **rock and roll** » Wed Oct 05, 2005 6:05 pm

Boy that's the truth. You will find that the search for the perfect mask is addicting. Rich or not, you will always be ahead of your insurance. Look for deals in the internet and buy from each other or go to eBay. Some DMEs, will trade them aroud initially but they will never put you first and most have not the slightest idea how to direct you.

RAMBLINMAN · Post by **RAMBLINMAN** » Wed Oct 05, 2005 6:11 pm

Thanks all for your help.....I really apreciated it

I haven't even started this therapy....and if there's one thing I can sure say so far it's been one hard and exhausted journey.

joey · Post by **joey** » Wed Oct 05, 2005 8:05 pm

Check with your insurance provider. Many of them will allow you to replace your mask every 3 or 4 months. These masks are NOT designed to last permanently so they do need replaced occasionally. I try a new one each time as long as my old ones are still in working order.

Jan in Colo. · Post by **Jan in Colo.** » Wed Oct 05, 2005 11:18 pm

I'm on the "New Mask Every Month Plan" for awhile. So far I have the Comfort-Lite that the DME provided me with (insurance paid), a Swift and I got the Aura today. Next paycheck I'll get the Activa. Then it might be closer to cold/flu season so maybe I'll need a full-face mask for those stuffy noses? I want to have a variety of good ones to rotate. The DME said insurance pays for a new one every six months...by that time I'll know my favorite and I'll have them get that one for me....

Jan in Colo.

Different Masks

Different Masks

My insurance seems to have no set limits on mask expenses