The therapist at my DME (VitalAire) has told me that when I finally purchase a machine their standard procedure is to provide 2 hoses, 2 masks and 12 filters along with the machine + humidifier.

I could see the usefulness of having 2 hoses & masks for a situation in which one mask and hose is rendered unusable; however, is this normal practice to include all these supplies upon initial purchase?

I am concerned that my insurance company may balk at paying for all this in one fell swoop given that their reasoning may be that it is reasonable to purchase a ("a" meaning ONE) new hose and mask every six months. In the instance that I purchase all these supplies initially I don't imagine the insurance company will be interested in paying for a new mask & hose in 6 months... perhaps in 1 year but certainly not in 6 months.

Is the DME doing right by me with this policy or are they simply trying to boost sales numbers?

Well, I've never heard of it being done this way before - but, it sounds like they are providing a one year supply right from the get go. (However, Medicare is allowing one hose every 3 months, rather than every 6 months).

Some insurances actually have a replacement schedule for CPAP equipment available online at their website. The best way to get the nitty gritty from your insurance company regarding your DME CPAP benefits is to call them and ask them.


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Some people are like Slinkies... Not really good for anything, but they still bring a smile to your face when you push them down a flight of stairs.
Resmed VPAP Auto. Humidaire 3i, Simplicity & Micro masks, ResScan 3.4, S8 ResLink, Embla oximeter.

I will request the filters but one of everything else just to get started. Insurance will pay for the lion's share of this, as I posted about in the other thread, so I don't want to push my luck right at the start by doubling up on the supplies.

Thanks for your response!