CPAP and BiPAP
Billing:
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This machine is almost always a rent to own item. After the item has billed, and been paid in full, usually 10-13 months, you will receive a title transfer giving you ownership of the item. Until your account balance is zero, we will not transfer ownership.
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If you are not using the machine for any reason, notify us immediately.
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Medicare and some insurance companies will cover the machine for an initial trial period of 3 months, and then require specific proof of use and physician follow-up before they will approve continued rental or purchase. Usual acceptable proof of use is at least 4 hours per day.
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Once we have confirmed that you are compliantly using the machine, you will then need to make a follow-up appointment with your doctor. Your doctor will review the data and evaluate you to ensure that the machine is improving your overall health. This must be completed within the first 31-91 days of rental (for Medicare), or Medicare will not continue to cover the machine. Private insurance and Medicaid have similar requirements.
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You will be fully responsible for payment if you do not comply with the above coverage requirements.
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Cleaning Instructions:
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MASK AND NASAL PILLOWS: Wipe down weekly with hygienic wipes or warm water with a mild liquid soap.
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FILTERS: White or blue disposable filters should not be cleaned, but should be replaced at least monthly. For machines that have the dark foam filter, wash them weekly, rinse thoroughly, and let them air dry completely before returning them to the machine.
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HEAD GEAR: Wash with cold or lukewarm water and liquid soap, then rinse.
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HUMIDIFIER: Change the distilled water as needed (about 2 cups).
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Wash HUMIDIFIER and TUBING weekly in hot soapy water, then rinse weekly.
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OPTION: If further concerned about cross-infection, all supplies, except, the filters, can be soaked in 1 part distilled white vinegar and 3 parts water for 30 minutes weekly. Rinse thoroughly and let air dry.
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Supply Replacement:
It is very important to your health, and or the proper function of the machine, for you to replace your supplies on a regular basis. Inspect each item regularly to make sure there are no cracks or breakage. You are encouraged to contact our office to discuss your supply needs. GoodCare by CPCI does not automatically contact patients to check on replacement supplies, since this practice frequently leads to abuse of providing unnecessary supplies. We ask you to let us know which supply items you need which are allowed under the terms of your insurance policy. Below is a list of what is covered by Medicare (with exception of Medicaid) and most other insurance companies.
Blue or White Disposable Filters --> 2 Per Month
Dark Foam Non-Disposable Filters --> 1 Every 6 Months
Tubing --> 1 Every 3 Months
Nasal Pillows --> 2 Per Month
Mask Interface (Hard Plastic Part of Mask) --> 1 Every 3 Months
Mask Cushions (Soft Part of Mask) --> 2 Per Month
Head Gear --> 1 Every 6 Months
NOTE: Medicaid and Medicare managed care usually approves replacement of mask, tubes, and headgear once per year.
Tips for Success with PAP Therapy:
If you experience nasal dryness, be sure you are using your humidifier, which is attached to your CPAP/BiPAP unit. Your humidifier also has a heat setting, to allow you to increase the temperature of the air from the CPAP/BiPAP, and which will increase the amount of humidity in the inspired air from the CPAP/BiPAP.To maximize your benefits, you should be using your machine every time you sleep, including naps. In order to cover the machine after the initial 3 month trial period, you must use it at least 4 hours a day.It does take a period of time to get acclimated to the machine. Please do not give up and stop using it without contacting us and your doctor first. More than likely, we can work together to make you comfortable, and compliant with your new therapy.We also sell items that are not covered by your insurance, which can be helpful to making your CPAP/BIPAP experience work for your individual case. For example, we have pillows that hold your tubing in place while you sleep, etc. Please call us to review our available sleep therapy aids.If you breathe through your mouth at night, or sleep with your mouth open, this CPAP/BIPAP can worsen dry mouth. Ask your doctor about a chin strap to help keep your mouth closed and reduce air leaks, or you may require a full face mask. These masks are also very comfortable.Most machines are almost silent, but if the noise bothers you, make sure your filters are clean with no obstructions. You can also try a white-noise sound machine to mask the noise.