Are you looking to purchase CPAP machine? It might be a difficult choice to make if you’re unsure whether to rent or buy your new CPAP device. This post will discuss renting vs. buying your next CPAP machine.
We’ll examine the advantages of each choice, the relative costs, and how to decide which is best for your particular need. Read on to learn if you must rent or buy your next CPAP device if you’re contemplating CPAP treatment for your sleep apnea.
The Cost of Rentals And Purchase CPAP Machines
If you have sleep apnea and you’ve been diagnosed with it by your doctor, you may be prescribed a CPAP machine (continuous positive airway pressure). This device helps to keep your airway open during sleep so you can breathe properly.
Without it, people with obstructive sleep apnea often have difficulty breathing while asleep, leading to serious health issues like high blood pressure and heart disease.
The price of a CPAP device may vary from $250 to more than $1,000. These are the numbers on the average cost of CPAP treatment and what you can expect to pay:
- Price of Rental CPAP Machine: $40 – 80 per month
- Price of Purchase CPAP Machine: $1,500 – $3,500
The hose and mask can add $180 to the bill, and supplies can cost up to $400 per year. While some insurance plans cover the cost of treatment for sleep apnea, others do not. You will have to pay for your CPAP machine out of pocket or buy one entirely if yours doesn’t cover this therapy.
Regarding purchasing or renting a CPAP machine, there are 3 factors that can affect your judgment. Let’s take a look at it.
Setting A Budget
CPAP devices typically cost between $1,500 and $3,500. Especially if OSA levels are mild and renting a CPAP machine would make more sense, such a wide price range may cause one to second-guess their purchase CPAP machine.
However, compared to renting a CPAP machine every month, purchasing a CPAP machine appears to be the preferable choice for severe sufferers.
Additionally, whether to purchase CPAP machine or rent depends on the features needed. Since more costly, higher-end CPAP devices are sometimes more cost-effective to hire for a bit of time.
How Long Do You Plan To Use The Equipment?
Doctors may advise a patient to use standard CPAP machines every week. In these circumstances, unique agreements with medical organizations may enable people to rent these devices following their immediate needs.
Purchasing a CPAP machine becomes the better option for people who require regular sleep support due to OSA and who suffer from it continuously or for an extended time.
The ability to travel and retain the smartphone at all times without worrying about returning it to the firm is another benefit of having such a device.
A minute’s delay may be lethal for certain people with severe OSA. Additionally, having a CPAP machine at home may save a life in an emergency.
Insurance Contracts
Patients often rent or purchase CPAP machine using their insurance plans. Many insurance companies usually decide whether to let a patient rent or buy a CPAP machine.
The Pros and Cons Of Purchase CPAP Machine
Pros
Buying a CPAP machine instead of renting one is an investment that only has to be made once, and it will be far less expensive than renting one for a long time. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about returning the device after the rental time or paying any late penalties if you own one. Purchasing one also helps ensure that it is regularly maintained and cleaned to function correctly.
Cons
Cost, maintenance, and the fact that you are responsible for the equipment’s maintenance and upkeep are all drawbacks to purchasing a CPAP machine. Even if most health insurance plans do not cover future repairs or replacement parts, some may cover the purchase CPAP machine. If you need a machine temporarily, such as for a few weeks or months, renting one can be more cost-effective.
The Pros and Cons Of Renting A CPAP Machine
Pros
Renting a CPAP machine is an excellent option if you want the newest technology but want to spend only some of the upfront cost. You may get the most recent features and advancements while avoiding maintenance and repair concerns. The rental provider will resolve any equipment issues, allowing you to promptly resume using the equipment.
Cons
Those who cannot buy their own CPAP machine can consider renting one instead, but there are certain drawbacks to consider. Renting a CPAP machine has several downsides, one of which is that you may only sometimes have access to the newest technology. When renting a CPAP machine, you are often limited to the models the rental firm has on hand.
Who Decides If I Should Buy Or Rent My CPAP Machine?
Your insurance company will choose whether to pay as a purchase or rental if you’re using health insurance to pay for your CPAP. Most insurance companies pay on a rental basis for roughly 10 months. Numerous insurance providers adhere to Medicare’s requirements for CPAP machines.
Usually, the rental rates are determined by the purchase CPAP machine price. For instance, if the CPAP equipment costs $800, the monthly rental fee for 10 months is $80.
The CPAP machine is the sole item subject to rental conditions; your CPAP mask, tubing, cushions, and even the heated humidifier are commonly bought components (aka flow generator).
Be Aware Of The Compliance Requirements When Purchasing Or Renting A CPAP Machine
You get ownership of the item after the renting time. To continue receiving payments, these insurance firms often demand evidence that you are utilizing the equipment and complying with their use guidelines (at least 4 hours per night for 70% of the nights).
They will only pay if you adhere to the compliance standards. Your only options for purchasing equipment are paying cash or giving it back to the supplier.
Your Insurance Could Require An Additional In-Person Visit With Your Doctor
Another Medicare recommendation other insurance companies are beginning to adopt is the need for a second in-person visit with your doctor within the first few months of CPAP therapy.
Between the 31st and 91st day after the commencement of CPAP therapy, Medicare and United Healthcare both mandate that patients undergo a clinical re-evaluation that includes:
- The treating physician certifies that the patient is receiving therapeutic benefits.
- The treating physician reviews compliance data, which is objective proof of use.
Do I Have To Pay For My CPAP Machine And CPAP Supplies Through My Insurance?
You are not required to utilize your insurance coverage to pay with your CPAP machine or CPAP supplies. In fact, you should pay cash for your equipment if you want to avoid the headache of demonstrating compliance and a 10-month (or longer) rental period.
Some patients with high insurance deductibles must pay out-of-pocket costs even with insurance.
Although renting a CPAP machine is still an option if you pay cash (you’ll still need to buy consumables like a mask and tubing), it’s typically more cost-effective to buy the machine outright.
Even if you utilize your insurance and go outside the network, you can spend less overall. Discover the main justifications for choosing to pay cash for CPAP and supplies.
If this is your 2nd CPAP machine, you must pay in cash (for vacation or a second house). CPAP machines are often only covered by insurance once every five years.
Choose What’s Best For you!
A personal choice, whether to rent or buy your new CPAP machine, should be made based on your lifestyle requirements and financial constraints. In the end, everything depends on your own needs and preferences.
Renting a CPAP device can be the best choice if you just need one for a limited time. However, buying a device can be more practical and cost-effective if you need a long-term fix. Before deciding whether to rent or buy your new CPAP equipment, carefully assess your demands and spending capacity.
