Why Do I Need A Prescription to Buy a CPAP Machine?
Date Published
Yes, CPAP machines are FDA Class II medical devices, so US law requires a prescription to buy one. The prescription confirms a sleep apnea diagnosis and sets your air pressure. You can get one through a home sleep test reviewed by a board-certified physician, often without an in-person office visit.
You may have been surprised by the fact that you can’t buy your CPAP machine and supplies without a doctor’s prescription. After all, it’s not like there’s a huge black market for people who abuse them. In fact, quite the opposite is true—compliance can be a major issue for those with sleep apnea!
However, there are a number of benefits to you as the consumer to have this protection in place, including:
Insurance reimbursement.
Many insurance companies require the written authorization of a doctor in order to cover medical devices such as CPAPs. As your supplies will need to be changed out periodically, having that prescription in place can save you money in the long run.
It can prevent you from hurting yourself.
One of the things a doctor or respiratory therapist will do when you first receive a CPAP machine is examine the data from your sleep study. They will then adjust the settings on the device so that it’s delivering the optimal therapy for you.
In fact, not having the correct setting can actually worsen your condition in the long run. You could be operating on the assumption that you’re receiving the treatment you need, when in fact the pressure might not be enough and you’re continuing to have apnea events each night.
It means you will receive customized treatment.
What you need from your CPAP treatment will be different from another person. Your doctor or respiratory therapist will not only be able to adjust your CPAP machine to the right pressure setting, they will also be able to recommend the right mask, the right delivery system and the right parts.
When it comes to picking out the right CPAP machines, the different options can be overwhelming. Luckily, the experts at Advanced Sleep Medicine are here to help! We can direct you to which machine and supplies would be best based on your doctor’s prescription, and walk you through how to use your equipment.
Frequently asked questions
No. A licensed provider must diagnose sleep apnea and write the prescription, because CPAP is a regulated medical device. A home sleep test reviewed by a board-certified physician can provide both the diagnosis and the prescription remotely.
You can purchase the machine yourself from most suppliers, but you must supply a valid prescription first. Sellers are legally required to verify it before shipping a CPAP.
No. Unlike some anti-snoring aids, CPAP machines cannot be sold over the counter in the US. They require a prescription tied to a sleep apnea diagnosis.
Complete a sleep study, a home sleep apnea test is usually enough, have the results reviewed by a physician, and they issue a prescription with your pressure setting. The whole process can be done largely online.
Often yes. Many insurers and suppliers require a current prescription, typically within the last 1 to 2 years, to replace a machine or reorder supplies. Check your plan resupply rules.
Ready When You Are
Take a home sleep test in California
FDA-approved devices delivered to your door. Board-certified physicians review your results. 100+ insurance plans accepted.