I just had my CPAP titration study last night and am waiting on the results. I'm expecting to be on a CPAP machine soon, so I wanted to pop in here, say hi, and get some ideas. It took me quite a while to get to this point as I've been fighting my insurance company for the authorization since January when I was diagnosed. Glad to be here finally.
The good news is I was able to tolerate the mask and I think I actually slept (can't verify because the tech. was not allowed to speak with me about the results). Bad news is I woke up tired, so I'm probably not going to get the next-day Energizer bunny effect that some lucky folks do.
I'd appreciate some advice on how to proceed from here. The sleep center had me fill out a form and choose from a list of local DMEs. I didn't appreciate that I wasn't given a choice other than those listed there, or even an online option. Anyway, I arbitrarily chose the one closest to my home. I presume the doctor will automatically forward my prescription to them and I'll be getting a call from the DME.
I tried calling the doctor's office today to discuss some concerns but, as usual, my calls go to voicemail. While I wait I was hoping others can chime in on the questions below?
1. How do I go about getting a copy of my prescription so that I can change DMEs later if I feel the need? Is the doctor obligated to provide it to me?
2. How do I ensure that the DME gives me the machine that I want? One of my questions to the doc. will be whether he can specify it on the script. I don't know if he'll do it. The local DME that I elected has a website but they do not list the machine that I want. They only have an older Resmed model (S8 Escape).
3. Can I request the doctor to not auto-forward my script to a DME, or is he legally obligated to do it? My insurance provider informed me that they will only cover it if the DME is in-network... so I need to shop around. I do not want to be stuck with another large bill at the moment.
4. Will the doctor or insurance company be tracking my usage? Back in January I had heard something about 'compliance.' How do they check? How long do they check for? What are the compliance rules and what happens if I fail?
5. When does the machine become mine to keep and do I need to do something now in order to set it up that way? My insurance company said they pay to rent the machine. I asked if it's a "rent to own" type thing and they gave only a vague 'yes' and the guy wasn't too confident. I'm not sure what to expect. I have a high deductible plan with 80/20 coinsurance, so I figure I'll be overpaying for the machine out of pocket anyway after the DME charges ridiculous rates for it. I would like to be at least making payments toward something I will own.
6. Is it customary to see the doctor for a consultation after a titration? They did not indicate that I would be seeing the doctor again. I think the next person I'll hear from is the DME.
Sorry for all the questions, but I really do appreciate any advice you can give. Thanks in advance!