Newbie mtg DME soon- Help me pick right machine

RedLabMom wrote:BTW we have a Mac computer. Is this a problem with Respironics or ResMed's software?

I don't have a Mac, but I'm sure other Mac users can tell you how to get either software to work on a Mac, probably with some kind of Windows emulation program.

And by the way, you don't have to be concerned about whether you would have trouble getting either software -- Encore Pro software for a Philips Respironics System One machine, or ResScan software for a ResMed S9 machine. You'll be able to find either one easily as soon as you announce which machine your son ends up with.

Hello friends! A big THANK YOU to all who have helped me along. You all are awesome! Have made some decisions and have more questions. Will push hard for the following:

Machine- ResMed S9 Autoset. The PR1 is a great choice too, but he had a good sleep with a ResMed during the titration so we are going w/ ResMed.

Humidifier- Fisher & Paykel HC 150 Heated Humidifier. Rested Gal made some very good points re: performance, reliability & versatility. I know he doesn't cares much about aesthetics on the bedstand.

Mask- ResMed Mirage Quattro size medium. He chose this one for the titration study. This might change depending on the DME set up visit- perhaps he could try more than just the 2 full face masks. He just didn't like the feel of the nasal masks. Am sure this won't be the only mask we will ever buy, but at least it is a start.

Question- The S9Autoset comes with the "standard Slimline tubing". Should we ask for/order a stand-alone heated hose now or wait to see if rain-out is a problem?

Question- Read the posts on topic "what about Thunderstorms?" We live in Houston area & were pounded by Hurricane Ike 3 yrs ago. We were among the VERY few VERY fortunate folks- we were without power for a mere 6 hrs. I think our home is tied into the same grid as a local hospital & firestation. We played host to a load of friends & family- air conditioning & power is a true blessing. 96% of the Greater Houston area was without power for Days & Weeks. Ike wasn't the first hurricane to hit the area and certainly won't be the last. So... As I read the specs on the S9 Autoset, it has a dc port to connect to a power source. But I can't find any portable batteries for the S9 @ cpap.com. Could certainly plug it into our gas-powered generator, but what about a camping trip or occasional power outage overnight. Is this the kind of item that insurance would pick up or is it considered a luxury/non necessity item that you purchase on your own?

Question- How often do you need to replace filters, tubing, masks, headgear, etc.? Does Rx specify schedule for supplies, insurance company says when or do you just buy it on your own?

Question? How long does a machine generally last? Does insurance allow you to replace it every x number of years or only when it breaks down?

Question- How would one write an RX for the ResMed S9 Autoset? Rested Gal did a beautiful Rx job for Auto & CPAP mode for the Philips Respironics System One, but since Res Med used EPR, exactly how would RESMed S9 Autoset Rx be written for Auto mode and for CPAP mode?

Will make lots of phone calls looking for decent DME's and see if I can find a great sleep MD in the Houston area.

Again, thank you guys so much for the advice. I have learned a lot and still have a lot more to learn. Your patient guidance and solid knowledge have been a source of comfort.