[CPAP] Get latest machine under NHS?

[Tyw7]

Is it possible to request a specific model or newer machine under NHS or you're stuck with what they give you?

Can you get vouchers to aid with the purchase of your own machine?

[Phill]

Is it possible to request a specific model or newer machine under NHS or you're stuck with what they give you?

Can you get vouchers to aid with the purchase of your own machine?

Well I was given no choice, I would suggest that you are stuck with what they give you, if anything.

Vouchers? no idea but I would have thought unlikely.

I thought my treatment was carp and I told them so.

Have you seen the UK Apnea site? they seem more concerned about what benefits they can claim than anything else.
Information here is far superior from people who know what they are talking about.

Then of course there is the driving licence fiasco.

Best of luck with the NHS.

[Tyw7]

Link to a board? THere's like tons found via Google.

[Apnea Infant]

Hi Tyw7

I wondered about approaching the NHS to change my CPAP Airsense to an AutoPAP in the early days when all my hair was torn out getting used to the therapy.

I had horrific leaks with the FFM but was only given a new one on approach with advice to get a pillows fitting from Resmed in London after which the NHS would give me the right pillows. As I was driven up the wall across the ceiling and down the other side many nights, I bit the bullet and bought the mask at my fitting. Have not looked back since.

Initially had many clear airways events to start with and discomfort with aerophagia and wanted to again ask for the Auto CPAP but those have also settled down. So now I reckon I shall stay with my CPAP as it is working.

Think all Sleep Professionals make you try the standard CPAP to start with, from what I read here.

[Gideon]

Think all Sleep Professionals make you try the standard CPAP to start with, from what I read here.

Note that insurance pays the same for either an Auto CPAP or a Fixed CPAP,  Fixed CPAP costs less.  Which would you choose to maximize profits?

Needing BiLevel/BiPap or ASV is different.  For these it is not uncommon to require failure with CPAP first.

Fred

[Sleeprider]

Think all Sleep Professionals make you try the standard CPAP to start with, from what I read here.

Note that insurance pays the same for either an Auto CPAP or a Fixed CPAP,  Fixed CPAP costs less.  Which would you choose to maximize profits?

Needing BiLevel/BiPap or ASV is different.  For these it is not uncommon to require failure with CPAP first.

Fred

I think in the U.K. the NHS purchases machines in bulk and prefers to dispense the least expensive option. Unlike DMEs in the U.S. the NHS is both the insurer and provider, so there is no "reimbursement" or profit, just a social health program paid through taxes and deductibles.

[Phill]

I believe that covers the situation under the NHS regime very well Sleeprider, very much a case of take what you are given, and don't complain.

Also, as I have said previously, should you be unhappy with your treatment alternative options are extremely limited.
One of the few options you have if you are unhappy with your treatment is to pay for a private consultation, this means you will quite possibly see the same medical professional but skip the extended waiting list.

This is not a situation that I believe many on this site would find acceptable, and as I suspect is usual with any "social health program" those that take the most contribute the least.