Dr. Prescribed a BiPAP Auto Biflex w/Heated Humidifier

Ok - so, I finally got a call from the DME and they are going to be providing per the prescription the Respironics BiPAP Auto w/Biflex & heated humidifier on a rent to own basis. My insurance will cover 90% after deductible (which my family has already met for this year). My copay for Aetna will come to about $40. Not bad at all. As I understood from the Dr. they are going to start me a pressure setting of 14/9. I am feeling pretty excited since it appears that this machine has had great reviews from folks here. I will be starting with the Mirage Swift nasal pillows as that is what worked best for me in the titration study. Since they seem to be giving me what I want I have not bothered to explore getting the prescription directly and ordering here on my own. Is there some hidden "gotcha" I am missing?

Now, I have several questions:

1) What questions do I need to ask of the DME's therapist when they deliver the machine to me next week?

2) I did not ask about software to allow me to access the data. Will the DME allow me to get that thru them or do I need to purchase that on my own? Is it something the Insurance will cover? I assume not since they probably see no need for a "layperson" to read the data. What will having the software do for me as a novice?

3) What auxilliary equipment/accessories will I need/want?

4) UPS or surge protector?

5) What about a full blown battery backup in case of power loss or for car camping? Any suggested resources on where to look for info on setting this up? Anyone here have experience with this machine and battery backup?

Thanks to everyone here for the great responses to my questions so far. This site is a god send to someone entering into the strange & mysterious world of CPAP.

edgerunner wrote:Ok - so, I finally got a call from the DME and they are going to be providing per the prescription the Respironics BiPAP Auto w/Biflex & heated humidifier . . . Since they seem to be giving me what I want I have not bothered to explore getting the prescription directly and ordering here on my own. Is there some hidden "gotcha" I am missing?

Doesn't sound like there's a gotcha. Congratulations. You are off to a very good start in this adventure. Just don't expect too much in the beginning. There are still plenty of things that can go wrong with this therapy. Patience is required. When you have problems, ask. There's often someone here who can help.

edgerunner wrote:1) What questions do I need to ask of the DME's therapist when they deliver the machine to me next week?

Just one. Actually, it's not a question; rather a request: Tell them to please include the provider's manual with the BiPAP-auto. You might want to call them ahead of time. A note from your physician works well here, too.

edgerunner wrote:2) I did not ask about software to allow me to access the data. Will the DME allow me to get that thru them or do I need to purchase that on my own? Is it something the Insurance will cover? I assume not since they probably see no need for a "layperson" to read the data. What will having the software do for me as a novice?

If you want it, you'll have to get it on your own. It's recommended highly for those who want to monitor their therapy.

edgerunner wrote:3) What auxilliary equipment/accessories will I need/want?

A heated hose - you'll probably get rain-out.

edgerunner wrote:4) UPS or surge protector?

Sounds good, but not required.

edgerunner wrote:5) What about a full blown battery backup in case of power loss or for car camping? Any suggested resources on where to look for info on setting this up? Anyone here have experience with this machine and battery backup?

It'll take a big battery.

Regards,
Bill

Great! You are on your way now!

If the DME won't give you the Providers Manual, let me know and I can get you a copy of mine, since I have the same machine.

Moogy