(01-20-2015, 09:30 AM)DavRin Wrote: I've just completed my sleep tests and found to need an ASV machine.
(01-20-2015, 05:42 PM)DavRin Wrote: I inquired about buying the machine outright and was told by the Insurance company that wasn't an option.
I definitely feel that I'm getting railroaded. Just haven't figured out anyway around it yet.
(01-21-2015, 08:13 PM)DavRin Wrote: I've pretty much decided to just purchase a machine outright and forget about Insurance (if you can call it that). My biggest concern is lack of knowledge about the whole process.
When I get a machine is it a simple plug and play process? Do adjustments need to be made initially or over time? If so is this something that I can do or does it have to be re-programmed professionally? If so by who and how much cost typically?
Hi DavRin,
If I were in your situation, I think I would simply buy a machine from
Supplier #2, if that supplier happens to have a suitable machine available. Their inventory varies week to week.
All ASV machines will automatically adjust Pressure Support within a range, but I recommend that the machine also should be one which has the ability to auto-adjust EPAP to treat obstructive apneas more optimally (I think this will make it easier to determine appropriate pressure settings), and also has a heated tube.
For example (from
Supplier #2 site):
1. Gently Used Respironics System One BIPAP Auto SV Advanced DS960 Machine with Heated Humidifier for around $1,400 plus more to be upgraded to heated tube (which requires larger power supply and different humidifier lid).
2. Or, I think better because simpler and more automatic: Gently Used ResMed ResMed S9 VPAP/BIPAP Adapt SV with Heated Humidifier - REF - 36037 for around $1,250. (REF# 36037 or 36067 or higher are recommended, not 36007 like mine.)
You need to ask/demand/obtain copies of your full sleep reports, one for each night, including all data. Will be many pages, with tables of data and event graphs, etc. You have a right to this for your own personal medical records.
You also need to get a copy of the prescription, which should include heated hose, and mask of patient's choice. You have a right to a copy of your prescription. Even if they insist it be marked "Patient Copy" it can still be used to order machine and supplies. (Supplier will be happy to call doctor for verification whenever needed.)
There are many threads on Apnea Board about how ASV machines work and/or adjusting the settings, by members who have had fairly easy times or fairly hard times, and have succeeded in their ASV therapy.
I suggest you (or others) email me any specific questions, if desired. Just started a new job this week, and soon I may not have time to be visiting the forum except infrequently.
In the meantime, I suggest searching the forum for ASV threads using search phrase "adaptive servo ventilator" or the like.
Take good care,
--- Vaughn
The Advisory Member group provides advice and suggestions to Apnea Board administrators and staff on matters concerning Apnea Board operation and administrative policies. Membership in the Advisory Member group should not be understood as in any way implying medical expertise or qualification for advising Sleep Apnea patients concerning their treatment.