Can You Rent A CPAP Machine? How Much Does It Cost?

Renting a CPAP machine is not only possible but very common in certain circumstances. Whether you are new to the world of needing a CPAP or perhaps looking for options, we discuss below everything you need to know about renting a CPAP.

Reasons to Rent a CPAP Machine

Test Drive A New Machine

One of the best reasons is the ability to try a certain machine prior to making a big purchase. If you have always used a standard machine, you can experience the benefits of an Auto CPAP by renting.

Renting offers you the ability to try out some of the different models available to see which one works best for your particular needs. You can be certain your CPAP is safe because it is sanitized, cleaned and includes a new mask, filter and tubing.

Temporary Replacement

You may love the machine you already have. Unfortunately, your CPAP may occasionally need to be replaced or repaired. Renting eliminates the need to wait for your machine to be repaired before continuing your therapy.

If you like the CPAP you rent, you can keep it and have a spare for when your current unit requires replacement according to the manufacturers guarantee. If you have recently received a diagnosis of sleep apnea, you may be unsure which device is best.

Traveling

Traveling can be a hassle all in itself without having to pack your own CPAP machine and supplies. If you’re going to be staying in a location away from home for more than a few days, you may consider renting a CPAP.

Benefits of Renting a CPAP Machine

There are a lot of benefits to renting as opposed to purchasing. Renting will allow you to receive your CPAP sooner. Renting is also much more convenient if you are planning a vacation.

By renting, you will not have to take apart your current machine. This is also an excellent opportunity to use one of the newer models to see if there is a difference. Renting is beneficial if you are having your machine repaired or serviced.

If you want to compare your current device to a bi-level CPAP, fixed pressure CPAP or automatic CPAP, renting offers you a good opportunity without a long-term commitment. You can rent all three of these types of machines to determine which is best.

You can choose from a variety of high-quality machines for a 35-day rental. This is your opportunity to find out if an automatic CPAP with a humidifier will be beneficial for your specific needs.

If you want to keep the machine, you can keep renting. If you are not satisfied, you can always rent a different model until you find a permanent solution. Once you find the right CPAP, you can continue your rental payments until you own it.

You can rent a CPAP with or without a humidifier for a period of five weeks or 35 days. You can choose from a bi-level CPAP, fixed pressure CPAP and even rent a travel CPAP for extra convenience.

All of the equipment is thoroughly sanitized and cleaned. The machines and humidifiers offer the latest technology for oxygen cleaning. No matter which device you choose, you will receive new filters and tubes.

Where Can You Rent A CPAP Machine?

Thankfully, you have many resources when it comes to renting a CPAP:

Local medical supply stores will likely have everything you need to rent a CPAP and keep it clean

Who did you buy your CPAP from in the first place? They may rental programs while your machine is being repaired.
RESPshop – One of the biggest online stores dealing with CPAPs, this is a great option for those that may live in more remote areas or who want a wider choice of machines.
- They do require a doctor’s prescription in order to rent or purchase a machine
- Each rental period is 35 days long and they provide a return label to ship the machine back to them when you’re done. That’s very convenient.
- Fixed-pressure, automatic, travel, and bi-level machines available
CPAPman is another online option when it comes to renting CPAPs but their inventory doesn’t seem to be as extensive as RESPshop.

How Much Does It Cost To Rent A CPAP Machine?

RESPshop’s prices are below and they include a refundable deposit. Deposits are taken in case you fail to return the machine on time or perhaps you damage it in some way during the rental. Note that these charges are for a 35-day length only.

Machine Type	Cost	Refundable Deposit	Charge During Checkout
Fixed Pressure	$119	$250	$369
Auto (Home Use)	$149	$350	$499
Travel (Transcend Auto)	$169	$350	$519
BiPAP/BiLevel/VPAP	$199	$450	$649

The Types of CPAP Machines

There are three different types of CPAP machines available for purchase or rent. All of these devices are available with or without a humidifier. The first is a standard CPAP machine.

The standard option provides you with constant air delivered right to your airway. The pressure is already set. You can adjust your pressure with an Auto CPAP machine during the night.

This will make certain the pressure levels recommended by your doctor are always being met. Your final option is a bi-PAP machine. This is most likely your best option if you have a complex type of sleep apnea or certain breathing disorders.

There are two set prescribed pressures on a bi-PAP machine. The first is for inhalation, the second for exhalation.

Differences Between Purchasing and Renting a CPAP Machine

Whether you are preparing to purchase your very first CPAP machine or you have been using yours for years, you have a lot of different options. Due to new technology, CPAP machines are consistently improving.

The most current machines offer you a wide selection of new features such as a wireless modem. Prior to deciding whether you are better off purchasing or renting your CPAP machine, you should be aware of all the different options available.

Paying for Your CPAP Machine

The way you pay for your CPAP machine may be determined by your insurance company. This is provided you decide to use your health insurance to cover the costs of your machine.

If your insurance company pays for your CPAP, they will make the decision between a purchase and a rental. The majority of insurance companies will pay to rent your CPAP machine for a period of approximately 10 months.

A lot of insurance companies adhere to the guidelines established by Medicare for CPAP equipment. In most cases, the cost of the rental is based on the machine’s purchase price. A good example is a machine selling for $800.

The monthly rental for a period of ten months would be $80. You will also need to purchase your CPAP supplies such as a mask, cushions, tubing and possibly a heated humidifier.

Your rental price will only cover your CPAP machine. This means you will additionally need to purchase your supplies separately. There is also a possibility your insurance company will require you to see your physician face-to-face.

You will also need to consider another guideline numerous insurance companies and Medicare are following. During the first few months of your therapy, you may need to arrange another face-to-face consultation with your doctor.

This consultation is currently required by both United Healthcare and Medicare. Once you have started therapy, you must have a clinical re-evaluation between your 31st and 91st days.

You will be required to provide documents from your treating physician showing you are receiving health benefits from your therapy. Your treating physician is required to review your compliance data or objective evidence of usage.

Is Having Insurance Mandatory for Purchasing a CPAP Machine and Supplies?

You do not need to have or use health insurance to either pay for or rent your CPAP machine and supplies. Some people are not interested in proving compliance for their insurance company to obtain a rental period of 10 months or possibly longer.

You have the option of paying for the rental or purchase of your machine without contacting your health insurance company. If your insurance deductibles are high, you may have out-of-pocket expenses even if you decide to use your insurance.

If you pay cash for renting or purchasing your machine, you will need to add in the cost of your supplies such as your tubing and mask. Although numerous individuals choose to purchase their machine outright, there are good reasons for renting.

The Compliance Requirements

If you are renting your machine, you will own your CPAP as soon as you have completed your rental period. You need to be aware of the compliance requirements of your insurance company.

The majority of insurance companies will require proof you are not only using your machine, but that you are meeting your usage requirements prior to continuing to make payments.

The average requirement is a minimum of four hours each night for 70 percent of all nights. If you are unable to meet your compliance requirements, you can either return your equipment or pay the balance in cash.