Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines, along with other medical equipment, are utilized daily by people who have breathing issues at night. For some, not having access to one of these tools can have devastating effects and limit what they can accomplish daily. While a CPAP machine is a crucial necessity for many people, sometimes, insurance coverage can be a massive obstacle to the process of trying to obtain a machine, either for the first time or as a replacement for an old or worn out machine. CPAP’s can cost anywhere from $150 to upwards of $1000. Additionally, there are various components which also need replacement on a regular basis.
Coverage
When it comes to CPAP machines, most insurances cover them including BlueCross BlueShield, Medicare, Cigna, etc., which is good to know if you ever find yourself in a position of needing one. However, coverage rates and time frames vary for all insurances with the only guaranteed coverage on the machine itself. Some insurances cover additional equipment such as a cleaner, tubing, and the mask that makes the CPAP useful. One example of coverage is through Medicare who covers these items but only for 13 months unless you have Durable Medical Equipment (DME) coverage. If your supplier or doctor is enrolled in Medicare, then coverage extends to you. If your doctor isn’t enrolled, you’re not covered. In the case of BlueCross BlueShield, it’s a matter of how many components you’re allowed over a specified period of time. Generally, coverage through BCBS entitles you to receive up to two replacements a month on specific parts, such as CPAP filters. For other components, like the humidifier or a new machine, coverage guidelines require that you wait a few years.
What Does Insurance Not Cover?
There are a few things that most insurance will not pay for. Let’s use BlueCross as an example. They state that most insurance will not cover cleaning supplies, comfort products, such as creams and lotions, or equipment such as batteries. Additionally, the majority of insurance companies will not cover travel CPAP’s.
Routine Cleaning
The best way to ensure that you get the most out of your CPAP machine and the related parts is to keep them clean. After use, bacteria and various pathogens are able to build up within your mask and/or humidifier. This can ultimately make you sick.
For the price of $249, Lumin CPAP cleaners are an excellent bang for your buck. They are very user-friendly when it comes to both setup and use, and kill 99.99% of bacteria, which comes in handy especially if you have allergies. Additionally, the Lumin does not give off any harmful odors or ozone and requires minimal maintenance.
SoClean is also a great cleaner. It does not require you to dismantle any pieces in order to do its job. It is very compact and comes with a 2-year warranty. Just like Lumin, it leaves no residue nor odors behind.
Either one of these CPAP cleaning machines is small and simple to use.
What to Keep in Mind
As you can see, ultimately, the best way to care for your CPAP machine and keep it running effectively and efficiently for as long as possible is to make sure you clean it thoroughly and regularly. Different brands of CPAP cleaners each have unique qualities.
Here at Best CPAP, we have everything you need in one place. You can compare prices, research accessories, and even get a few deals with coupons, all on one website. Shop with us and save yourself not only time but also money. For more information, click here.