(Newbie) Just got prescription...need help choosing machine

Hi All -
Just got a prescription today for a CPAP machine w/humidifier, and I'm trying to rapidly educate myself on terms, equipment, etc. I have browsed quite a bit, but don't see much to help me navigate the sea of machine choices. It's a bit overwhelming, and I would like to be educated before walking in to the local DME place.

My goal is to purchase the best technology for my needs at a fair price. The biggest problem is I don't know which features will benefit me. The ResMed S9 seems to be the latest technology with good reviews, but I don't want to needlessly overspend if a $100 machine will do the trick. (exaggeration, but you get the point...)

This might open a can of worms, but let's say hypothetically that someone was selling a new/unused ResMed S9 Autoset locally on craigslist. Aside from warranty implications, is there any particular reason purchasing this way would be a bad idea? I dont know what my insurance benefits are yet, but if this will get me a better machine for same/less money, I'm considering it.

Thanks!

I certainly would purchase the ResMed S9 Autoset. Allot of forum members have the S9's and like them. I know I like my ResMed S8 autoset 11. You will want a machine that gives you full data not just compliance hours.

rosie

I bought both my machines off craigslist. Both brand new. Zero hours. Both were available for hands on inspection.
I worried about the warranty but I have not had a problem. Someone on the board just a few days ago bought a spare machine used low hours, on the cpapauction I think it was. It developed a problem and wondered what to do. Took it to a DME and ended up getting a new machine. I think it was Resperonics that just exchanged it for him.

In my case with my first machine I did the math. Get the machine I want or settle for something the DME wanted me to have which wasn't what I wanted but insurance would pay all but my 20% co pay. I still saved money paying out of pocket. Depends on deductibles and co pays if there is a savings or not.

If I was in the market for a new machine and had the cash and found one on craigslist that saved me money, I wouldn't hesitate. You can still use a DME for masks and other supplies if you wish.

Do your research so you know which machine will do what. ResMed 9 AutoSet would probably serve you very well.
It can be used in both CPAP and APAP mode. On screen data is probably better than the PR System One APAP. Both have software available though. Do the math with your insurance.

Thanks for the responses! I feel better knowing I have more purchasing options...definitely don't want to settle for less than what I need or be overcharged for it.

Looking forward to reading more here - so much to learn!

check http://www.secondwindcpap.com for their specials ,some of their machines are new .
cheers.

Have you ever smoked? I ask because someone said that smokers have a tougher time with machines that have EPR easy breathe technology, etc.

"I know I like my ResMed S8 autoset 11." I have this machine and it doesn't work for me. I'm an ex-smoker so that may be why. I just sent a note to Resmed asking if the EPR can be disabled. I've had this machine for at least 3 years but I'm still using my old S7 cpap machine. It may depend on the severity of your apnea. Hopefully someone will respond to my inquiry about APAP machines with no EPR (or that can be disabled).

Hi DebbieDeb -
I'm a non-smoker/drinker, but you bring up a great point...exactly the kind of thing I'm looking for. My assumption is that you can enable/disable all the various features, but from what you're telling me, that's not a safe bet. Pretty big point to consider when purchasing.

The root cause of my sleep issues is chronic and disabling back pain (multiple surgeries, implanted stimulator, etc...). My sleep apnea is mild, and I'm a relatively young guy....so we will see what happens.

Thanks for sharing info

I believe with the ResMed S9 Autoset the comfort features (EPR and Ramp) can be easily adjusted or even turned off.

When in doubt get the clinician manual and read it to see all the different setting and features.

http://www.apneaboard.com/CPAP%20Adjustment.htm available here, scroll down for instructions.

Awesome, thanks! I love to tinker, so that will be part two of my purchase process...definitely want to get my hands on documentation, hidden settings, firmware, and of course the ResMed software.

Feature-wise I'd say data recording and APAP are must-haves. Can't monitor and tweak your therapy without them. Everything else is nice-to-have. Unless it turns out that one of those minor features keeps you from using the machine. If you are like most people, you'll be battling the mask for the next several weeks or months. So get the best machine you can afford so you have one less thing that bothers you.

At least that's how I justified my S9.

In addition to full data capabilities and APAP for maximum flexibility, I'd also suggest giving some consideration into whether you may be likely to have problems with rainout. If you think rainout might be an issue for you, you may want to consider machines that have some kind of rainout prevention designed into them.

Rainout is when the water vapor in the humidified air in the tube condenses out of the air and into the tube and possibly onto your face. Or it runs down the tube and lands on your face. One important ambient factor that can contribute to rainout problems is the temperature of the bedroom when sleeping. Typically folks who sleep in cold bedrooms are more likely to get rainout. As are folks who tend to set the heated humidifier at its maximum setting. Hose management also comes into play in dealing with rainout: Hanging the hose above your head may help rainout---if the condensation is happening closer to the machine than your face. Making sure the machine is below the level of your head also helps. And using a hose cozy can help.

Thanks for the additional input. I talked to my local DME today, and pricing seems fair/reasonable. However, when I requested the S9 Autoset, I was told my prescription only specified CPAP, so I would have to go with the S9 Elite model.

Do DMEs have the flexibility to give me the S9 Autoset, or do I need to have my physician modify the prescription to say APAP?

30Valve wrote: Do DMEs have the flexibility to give me the S9 Autoset, or do I need to have my physician modify the prescription to say APAP?

Well....They could supply the Autoset with it set in straight CPAP mode but they won't want to do that because of the additional cost of the APAP since they likely get paid by the billing code and not the unit itself. Same billing code for all of them. They have already told you that since it says CPAP they are hoping you will accept. You could try pushing it or find another DME that will supply it.

Is there any chance the doctor would prescribe the APAP even in CPAP mode with the explanation that you give him that you might later be having problems and want to check variable pressures and it would be easier than getting another new machine?? Sometimes they will and sometimes they dig in their heels. Also any physician can write the RX. Your family GP could do it if he/she would.

Thanks Pugsy. I have an appt with the DME on Monday, and will push for the Autoset. Hopefully the doctors office will help me out too...

TooGroggy wrote:Feature-wise I'd say data recording and APAP are must-haves. Can't monitor and tweak your therapy without them. Everything else is nice-to-have. Unless it turns out that one of those minor features keeps you from using the machine. If you are like most people, you'll be battling the mask for the next several weeks or months. So get the best machine you can afford so you have one less thing that bothers you.

At least that's how I justified my S9.

I disagree with the totality of that set of statements. Having an APAP is NOT absolutely necessary to being able to monitor or tweak one's therapy. "Data-capability" IS a must, but it's very easy to tweak one's therapy with a data-capable, straight-pressure CPAP machine and software. I've seen more people become totally lost and screwed-up trying to get started and get things figured out in this therapy with an APAP set to a range of pressures.
Nothing wrong with HAVING an APAP, but if you can't get them to give you one, it doesn't mean you can't have good therapy with a straight-pressure CPAP........as long as it's FULLY data-capable.


Den