Getting hold of replacement masks etc.

[Lawrence Nash]

I am still a relatively new user of CPAP and was wondering how easy / difficult any of you find obtaining replacement masks etc. I think the manual recommends time periods to replace certain items, but how are these obtained; from the hospital, NHS prescription?

I have my first follow-up appointment next week and will ask there also.

Lawrence

[Joe McManus]

Yes, normally you ask at the follow-up or let your provider know if the time in between follow-up takes too long. It may help exaggerating the state of your old mask a bit, say you get more leaks than you used to, the straps aren't as elastic anymore and you can see the plastic degrading etc. That will help your cause and make sure they take notice of your needs. It's better to get a new mask too early than too late. Both for you and the hospital.

Having said that, for the past few years I've been buying privately so I get the exact things I want, when I want them, without burdening the NHS and/or making more people wait for their stuff who can't afford going privately.

But yes, in terms of NHS supplied stuff, keep the pressure on them when the time is right for replacements to get what you need.