RE: Buying from the USA
I have used supplier 2 for a machine. No prescription required at the time.
I use supplier 10 for masks, parts, filters and anything else. They have never asked for prescription.
Power brick on my resmed looks after the voltage change, I just used an old printer cord for the plug difference. (figure 8 plug)
RE: Buying from the USA
G'day Nathan.
* Prices: I haven't been following these but the relative value of the AU$ V US$ does fluctuate. In addition to the purchase price you need to allow for shipping and a $50 customs handling fee.
* Power bricks are usually rated 110 -240v and are auto-adjusting. You'll need the figure 8 power cord which goes between the brick and the wall socket but you can pick these up at places like Jaycar for a couple of dollars.
* Traps: You wont get any manufacturer support, even if you buy a Resmed made in Australia. If anything goes wrong you will have to send the machine back to the states for repair. You may or may not get support from your sleep clinic.
* Prescription: Get your GP to write one. It doesn't go on an ordinary PBS script pad - he needs to put it in letter form stating his provider number. Try to get it as vague as possible (eg "autosetting machine of patient's choice plus mask and accessories).
RE: Buying from the USA
UPDATE: I ordered a machine from supplier#10 and it arrived 4 days later. Amazeballs! Bought wipes and filters too though should have thought to get a few replacement memory foam cushions for the AirTouch mask.
I did have to pay the $80 "handling fee" that others have mentioned when importing to Australia. The supplier rang while the machine was still in transit and took that payment over the phone to 'expedite' delivery.