About 1 in 15 Americans have sleep apnea, which often goes undiagnosed. It affects sleep quality and overall health, as well as risks of accidents (which includes the sleep quality of the sufferer’s partner). The most common treatment for sleep apnea is a CPAP machine. CPAP machines set up a positive pressure in the airway, which reduces the collapse of the airway during sleep that causes the problem. It is the most effective method, but it does leave the patient having to regularly buy CPAP supplies - these include replacement mask cushions, headgear and hoses, filters and other replacement parts. Filters on a CPAP machine need to be changed regularly, depending on the type of filter. Many online retailers sell these supplies, and some are obviously better than others. Here are three reputable, quality CPAP supply vendors: CPAP.com, The CPAP Shop and UniversalMedSupply.
Top 3 Retailers for CPAP Medical Supplies
- CPAP.com
- The CPAP Shop
- UniversalMedSupply
CPAP.com
CPAP.com is a highly rated and well-reviewed provider of CPAP machines and supplies. They offer good information for new CPAP users and advice on how often to replace masks, filters, cushions, etc. They give free shipping on orders of $99 or more and you can simply upload your prescription if buying a new machine. Their site includes information on different types of filters and they will help make sure you get the right mask, hose, and filter for your specific machine. They will also match a competitor’s documented price. However, they do not accept insurance (which they say helps keep prices down).
Highlights
- Low prices
- Free shipping
- Easy purchase options
The CPAP Shop
Another specialist CPAP supply store - they sell all of the normal CPAP supplies and also carry Choices for Her, a line of products designed for the specific needs and desires of women with sleep apnea. They accept PayPal as well as credit cards. They also sell reusable nebulizers and oxygen concentrators for asthma sufferers. Like CPAP.com, they do not deal directly with insurance companies, but they are an Out of Network provider for many companies and will provide the required codes for reimbursement. They also offer free shipping on orders over $99.
Highlights
- Special line for women
- Accepts PayPal
- Free shipping
UniversalMedSupply
UniversalMedSupply is not a specialist CPAP provider, but is still well-rated in this area. Because they are a broader medical supply firm they do accept most insurance, including Medicare, and they offer a better system of coordination with your physician. They will also sell to the uninsured and match prices. However, they do not sell CPAP supplies through their website - you have to work with your insurance company or contact them to get information. This also means their prices are harder to get (although still competitive).
Highlights
- Takes most insurance
- Approved by Medicare
- Large selection of medical supplies
Conclusion
There are a lot of local medical supply stores that can help you with your CPAP supplies, but these three will ship wherever you are in the US and have a good reputation. When it comes to medical supplies for CPAP or anything else, it is important to find a provider or vendor who will sell you what you need and get it to you quickly and for a reasonable price.