[size=18]I was diagnosed with OSA in 2006. Back Then I has UHC via another company/ Back at that time, the DME required that I "rent" the BiPap before final purchase

Since then, My RT  has been by to check on my machine. She faxed my Pulminary doc that my machine is in disrepair and in unsanitary condition and should be replaced.

Considering I have a history of compliance, has anyone had any experience with UHC and replacing old equipment?
I really dont have experience with this.

SOME BACK STORY: I had left the job where I has UHC for coverage. I ended up purchasing the unit since UHC required me to rent it.
I got another job that offer me the opportunity for UHC.

QUESTION: Considering the cost of the BiPap, has anyone had UHC just buy your new machine or did they still make you rent it even if you have had 3 years compliance???   I ask because I was fired due to complications brought on by my apnea and my UHC will run out at the end of the month.[/size]

Policies vary amongst insurance companies and even amongst various policies by the same company. MOST require some form of "capped rental" for 3 to 13 months. But chances are good since you've been compliant for 3 years that the insurance company might be willing to buy a new bi-level outright. You need to check w/your Benefits Rep where you worked or with the insurance company directly.

I would guess since you were compliant w/your therapy for 3 years but still had symptoms bad enough to cause your dismissal that your therapy was NOT sufficiently therapeutic. If at all possible this time I would INSIST on a fully data capable bii-level so that there is efficacy data available for your doctor (and/or YOU) have PROOF of efficay of your therapy or data clues as to what your problems are and what might be able to be done to correct them. Do you even know WHY you needed a bi-level rather than "just" a CPAP??

Is your current defective bi-level "just" a straight bi-level or is it one of the more "sophisticated" bi-level such as an ST, etc? Which brand and model is it?

If it is the Respironics M Series, there was a problem w/the early M Series xPAPs' integrated humidifier leaking into the xPAP itself which if a leak occurred could shorten the life of the xPAP. The serial number on the bottom plate of the integrated humidifier will indicate if it is one of the early, poorly designed, defective humidifiers and that MAY warrant a replacement of your bi-level despite it is 3 years old.

I "think" there is a link in the forum regarding the Respironics M Series integrated humidifier to the serial numbers involved but could be wrong about that.


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PR SystemOne BPAP Auto w/Bi-Flex & Humidifier, EncorePro 2.2, ConTec CMS-50D+ oximeter
BackUp: Resmed VPAP Auto. Humidaire 3i, ProBasics Zzz-Mask full face, ResScan 3.10, S8 ResLink, Embla oximeter.

We have choice plus, When my husband was dxed last year, we were required to 'rent' the machine, with the payments applied to the cost of the machine--at least that's what our DME did. after about 9 months we actually ended up owning the machine because we'd paid for it thru the 'rental" payments. I don't know how that will work now that you're unemployed?? have you checked out COBRA to see if you're eligible for that to see if you can get your coverage continued until you can find other work?? I know COBRA's expensive but it still might be better than paying for your healthcare expenses, especially if you've met all your deducts.

Your DME supplier and even sleep doctor can be a big help is pushing thru purchase of a new bi-level before your insurance runs out. Both have staff that specialize in working with the insurances. Explain the situation to them, especially the DME supplier.


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PR SystemOne BPAP Auto w/Bi-Flex & Humidifier, EncorePro 2.2, ConTec CMS-50D+ oximeter
BackUp: Resmed VPAP Auto. Humidaire 3i, ProBasics Zzz-Mask full face, ResScan 3.10, S8 ResLink, Embla oximeter.

Thanks for the input.... I have a feeling I won't have time to try and get a new machine.
I use the Resmed Vpap III BiLevel instead of the CPap as it  is difficult to breathe outwards with the pressure settings.

These micro sleep symptoms just started the past 4 months.
Most likely side effects to medications I am on due to a car accident back in 2004.
I went to work in agony (not taking my meds) just hoping to avoid the micro-sleeps, did not work
and I was fired because of the micro-sleeps.

My Pulminologist gave me samples of Nuvigil but with no insurance I will not be able to afford it.....
IF they work, it is likely that I will be treated for slight narcolepsy as well. Will just have to see what the Doc says about my test results Friday.

Thanks again!

I wish you lots of good luck. Being w/o health care insurance in this day and age has to be a nightmare.


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PR SystemOne BPAP Auto w/Bi-Flex & Humidifier, EncorePro 2.2, ConTec CMS-50D+ oximeter
BackUp: Resmed VPAP Auto. Humidaire 3i, ProBasics Zzz-Mask full face, ResScan 3.10, S8 ResLink, Embla oximeter.

I have UHC through my employer. The background work that one needs to do is to find out eligibility requirements for DME(Durable Medical Equipment supplies) for your plan. For instance, mine pays 90% of the cost for in-network when ordered by a Physician(in a physician's office) or through a in-network DME provider. Replacement of the entire CPAP device is covered every 3 years while accessories replacement rate needs to be checked with Care coordinator.

The resmed cpap device that i received was ordered by a physician and not through a DME. Going through your physician would ensure that you get what is best suited to meet your needs. I haven't had experience dealing with DME agents yet.

AHI 15. Titrated at 11.non-compliant with full face mask,currently using a herbst oral appliance.