Sleep Apnea Support/Questions Thread

[pnoon]

Originally Posted by CigarNut

I love my CPAP. So does my wife . I actally bought a second machine (on my dime) -- I have a "full size" Respironics at home:

Does health insurance typically cover CPAP machines and masks? And what did the second machine cost you?

[PeteSB75]

Originally Posted by pnoon

Does health insurance typically cover CPAP machines and masks? And what did the second machine cost you?

The big machines are not that expensive as medical supplies go, usually run about 3-400 I think. I just pack mine up and carry it with me when I travel. The extra bag is a pain when going through airport security, not heavy, but frequently inspected. I ALWAYS carry it on - I don't want them to lose it on me... I might have to look into that travel one, but I don't know how Sarah will like it, she is typically a fairly light sleeper.

Not sure about your insurance, but mine covered the machine and covers replacement filters/mask/hose about every 3 months. Mine also gave me the option to switch to a new mask (nose pillows in my case) since I didn't like my first one. The DME (durable medical equipment) supplier calls me every few months to ask if I want new supplies, which they ship to me.

[pnoon]

Originally Posted by PeteSB75

The big machines are not that expensive as medical supplies go, usually run about 3-400 I think. I just pack mine up and carry it with me when I travel. The extra bag is a pain when going through airport security, not heavy, but frequently inspected. I ALWAYS carry it on - I don't want them to lose it on me... I might have to look into that travel one, but I don't know how Sarah will like it, she is typically a fairly light sleeper.

Not sure about your insurance, but mine covered the machine and covers replacement filters/mask/hose about every 3 months. Mine also gave me the option to switch to a new mask (nose pillows in my case) since I didn't like my first one. The DME (durable medical equipment) supplier calls me every few months to ask if I want new supplies, which they ship to me.

Thanks, Pete.

[PeteSB75]

Originally Posted by pnoon

Thanks, Pete.

Not a problem. It's amazing to me how many people, especially men, seem to have this problem, most of them undiagnosed and/or untreated. Glad to hear you are doing something about this - I know after my diagnosis and starting treatment, I felt massively better and had the energy to get my azz to the gym and start working out for the first time in about 10 years. My health is definitely the better for it.

[CigarNut]

Originally Posted by pnoon

Does health insurance typically cover CPAP machines and masks? And what did the second machine cost you?

My insurance covered the first machine and covers and a mask and filters every three months. My mask (Aptiva) runs about $100 if I have to pay for it.

The second machine cost me about $1,500 (you can get it for less without the heated humidifier, but I strongly recommend the humidifier -- and you need to make sure your doctor includes that on the prescription if you want one). I got it in 2006 when my job changed and I was going to be traveling more (I got my first CPAP in 1999, and the home machine that I have now I got in 2005).

It was painful trying to carry my CPAP, laptop, and clothing, etc. in one bag, so I opted for the smaller machine.