The look on the face of the DME provider

I love my DME, seriously, but they will not get me any mask without a script if I've never worn one like that before. Every time I change the TYPE of mask I wear, they insist they need a script. Other than that, they're wonderful. When I wanted the Somnoplus, they didn't carry it, but did the research and got it for me. They are really very helpful.

I don't know if it's really different for DMEs than for online stores, but they are claiming that they do require a script. They've never given me any trouble so far, except not being able to get the Aura for me, so I don't let that one hitch bother me.

Sleepless on LI wrote:I love my DME, seriously, but they will not get me any mask without a script if I've never worn one like that before.

I think I know what you're saying, Lori. Kinda sounds like the expectations for DME's are so low that when they can do a few things right, that's considered good.

Regards,
Bill

Honestly, Bill? They have really gone out of their way for me and even gave me a free mask when I used the Oracle for a week and couldn't stand it. I got a free replacement Activa for nothing out of their pocket. I have had no negative dealings with them at all except that they couldn't get me an Aura. Other than that, I think they're great. Some really are helpful after all and not just the best of the worst. Plus, if you leave a message, they actually do call you back. Very, very helpful. I guess either I have very low expectations, which I don't believe is the case, or they are really helpful and do what they're supposed to. Hey, there are exceptions to every rule, you know.

Sleepless on LI wrote: I guess either I have very low expectations, which I don't believe is the case, or they are really helpful and do what they're supposed to. Hey, there are exceptions to every rule, you know.

Lori,

Maybe they know the field in which you work and they don't want to make enemies that have connections in high places. <smile>

...and about that "FREE" mask...how much did they charge your insurance for the first one?

Not trying to pick on you... just picking on your DME <wink> I hope they are a "GOOD" one cause you deserve it.

I am by no means saying that ALL DME providers are bad. I am just saying that I would think that they would have a little more flexibility to get their patients what they need. I was not looking for a free mask. I told the DME when I initially went there that I would pay out of pocket for the additional mask. I was, however, very disappointed that it took two weeks for them to "research" it and that I finally had to call them and tell them that I had ordered one online the day prior and had it in my hands already. I was also disheartened to see the reaction of the provider since you would think that a good provider would want their patients comfortable at any cost. I see it this way, if I am comfortable I am more likely to remain compliant. If I am compliant then the DME continues to make money from me and my insurance company. Therefore I would assume that my compliance is a huge issue for them. I do thin that there are good providers out there. I used to work for a DME provider for 5 years. I know the inside workings. I just believe that maybe the service with this particular provider is lacking and could be improved upon.

cpap machines are classified as a class 2 medical product and requires a prescription. Masks, hoses, humidifers, filters, etc., items do not require a doctor's prescription. Its amasing how most DME personnel are uninformed.

Susan,
I didn't take your post the wrong way. Unfortunately, it seems that the majority, at least the ones we hear tales of on this site, are not in the same category that I consider mine to be in. And kudos to you for going down with the Aura and doing what you did. Most of us would just say, "I have a good mind to go down there and..." You did it!

Wading,
You know, no matter what they charged the insurance company for the Oracle, they still would have charged them even without throwing in the Activa. I hear what you're saying, but I really have to defend them since they have really stood by me and helped me with every aspect of equipment purchasing so far. And LOL about not wanting to mess with someone in my field, but I don't really think that's the reason for their good service. I referred Ramblinman to them a while back when he was having trouble and they got him the Remstar Auto when no one else could or would. They seem to be one of the good guys out there. And I know you, my friend, were not picking on me. You know better than to ( ).