Should I give modem back to DME

[MitchS]

My DME left a note on my door stating they wanted the modem off of my DreamStation. Am I mistaken in thinking the modem is a part of the machine, or at least a part off the package? I'm still in the rental period of the machine. I'm finished with compliance and I probably don't need the modem any longer, but I don't want to give them something that I've paid for.

[sdb7802]

The DS modem is a removable module located on the left side of the machine under the plastic door. It is an add-on part, although they may say it's bundled. I'd look at your paper work and see if they charged you for it.

[rem52]

sorry, but what part of "left a note on my door" meets HIPPA regs?
or do dmes ignore those too...?

[Mosquitobait]

sorry, but what part of "left a note on my door" meets HIPPA regs?
or do dmes ignore those too...?

Read the HIPPA regs. They are primarily about electronic data.

Yes, I would look at your paperwork. My brother OWNS his modem.

[MitchS]

Thanks guys. I thought maybe someone could tell me if they were bundled.

I guess they will have to wait a couple of weeks as I'm out of town. Oh well, they should have called in advance. I gave them my number when I picked the machine up. I didn't have time to address the issue before leaving. I'm not going to turn it over to them without knowing for sure.

[Snoopy2011]

I used to work at a DME and can think of no circumstance that the patient would either own or be billed for a modem. We purchased them separately they weren't cheap. There is no billing code and Medicare specifically states there is no additional payment for modems. Maybe a private insurance would pay for them but I am doubtful because once compliance is met there is no need for one unless maybe the DME needs to change your pressure remotely.

[MitchS]

I used to work at a DME and can think of no circumstance that the patient would either own or be billed for a modem. We purchased them separately they weren't cheap. There is no billing code and Medicare specifically states there is no additional payment for modems. Maybe a private insurance would pay for them but I am doubtful because once compliance is met there is no need for one unless maybe the DME needs to change your pressure remotely.

Thanks Snoopy. That makes sense. After I thought about it I think it is probably true in this case. I'll have to wait to address the issue as it is with me. It will be a couple of weeks before we get back into town. I'm on the east coast on a second honeymoon with my bride of 30 years.

[sdb7802]

New DS cell modems (100605C) are being sold for $40 on that popular internet auction site. Not sure what a DME can buy or sell them for, but I bet they're not cheap (as Snoopy2011 points out).

EDIT: Supplier #30 shows $525 MSRP and $100 priced to move.

[surferdude2]

pupcamper, And why did you take your CPAP on your "Honeymoon" since you're not supposed to sleep during such an adventurous time.

[DariaVader]

I used to work at a DME and can think of no circumstance that the patient would either own or be billed for a modem. We purchased them separately they weren't cheap. There is no billing code and Medicare specifically states there is no additional payment for modems. Maybe a private insurance would pay for them but I am doubtful because once compliance is met there is no need for one unless maybe the DME needs to change your pressure remotely.

My doctor prescribed a modem. My DME billed my insurance and my insurance paid for my modem - which is an add on for the Resmed S9 that I have. So, yes, they will. ymmv - but it is definitely in the realm of possibility.