What's Included in a CPAP Prescription

I had my sleep study last summer. I only saw a respiratory therapist. I didn't see a sleep specialist physician. The report was sent to my Family Practitioner, and the sleep specialist sent a prescription for a generic CPAP to the local DME where I was directed to go.

I now know that I would like to have a more sophisticated machine that includes a smart card so that I can track my status. So, I will schedule to see my Family Practice MD to request a prescription. My question is: what is included on the prescription? Do I need to ask him to specify the particular type of machine that I want (APAP)? Does the prescription need to specify software, humidifier, etc? I haven't seen how these prescriptions are written.

On the prescription pad, my sleep doc wrote:

APAP 7-12

and that was it. He wrote a note directing his clerical staff to verbally request a download report after 30 days. That note to his staff also included the name of the DME he wanted them to call and the fact that I had requested a Resmed machine.

[EDIT] Oops, Snoredog's post reminded me that my scrip actually said:

APAP 7-12 H/H

Very simple if PCP has a copy of your PSG, all your doc needs to put is:

Dx OSA
Rx CPAP, APAP (any pressure or range) w/Heated Humidifier and mask.


That's it, you order your machine on-line with credit-card and fax over a copy of the script. You should keep the orginal prescription should you need anything else the script is good for 2 years.

I always get concerned when a sleep specialist sends over your script to their favorite DME, reminds me of the good ole boy network that ends up costing me more money over the long run. Ask for your prescription, you have every right to it.