Can You Get a CPAP Machine Without Insurance?

Whether you don’t have health insurance or don’t have coverage for a CPAP,  you may be considering buying a CPAP machine on your own. 

Thankfully, there are many options for you to start CPAP therapy without insurance. And in many cases, you’ll have more flexibility in deciding where to shop and what model to purchase. 

Before jumping in, it’s helpful to learn about shopping for a CPAP device without relying on insurance. Ahead, we cover all the key details to help you get started.

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How to Get a CPAP Machine Without Insurance

When buying a CPAP machine without insurance, you typically have more flexibility and less red tape. While you’ll still need a doctor’s prescription Trusted Source American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) AASM sets standards and promotes excellence in sleep medicine health care, education, and research. View Source , shopping without insurance can offer more options for what to buy and where to buy it, all without the hassle of dealing with an insurance company.

Get a Prescription

Regardless of where you shop, you must have a prescription to buy a CPAP machine. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations about medical devices require a prescription to authorize the sale of all positive airway pressure (PAP) machines, including CPAP and BiPAP machines. 

If you don’t have a prescription already, you can talk to your doctor about whether they recommend a sleep study, which can diagnose obstructive sleep apnea Trusted Source UpToDate More than 2 million healthcare providers around the world choose UpToDate to help make appropriate care decisions and drive better health outcomes. UpToDate delivers evidence-based clinical decision support that is clear, actionable, and rich with real-world insights. View Source . At-home sleep apnea tests can also be ordered online and can diagnose many cases of sleep apnea. 

Where to Buy

The main way to buy a CPAP machine without insurance is through an online site or a brick-and-mortar medical supply store. Many local, regional, and national companies offer durable medical equipment like CPAP devices. You’ll generally find the largest selection online.

• Online CPAP Retailers: These companies have a selection of CPAP devices and accessories. Online retailers require you to upload or email a copy of your prescription before completing an order.
• Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Suppliers: Medical supply stores often work with insurance companies, but they may also sell CPAP machines to those without insurance. You may need to call ahead to brick-and-mortar locations to find out about the products they offer and whether they require insurance.
• Telehealth Sleep Services: Another option is to work with a telehealth provider that focuses on sleep. These companies typically provide a full range of services, including at-home sleep apnea testing, consultation with a sleep specialist, and sale of CPAP machines and accessories. 

Because a CPAP machine is a piece of medical equipment, it is not advisable to buy from unauthorized retailers. If it’s possible, you should also avoid buying used CPAP machines since it is difficult to verify their condition and cleanliness. 

Make sure to work with a company with experience in sleep equipment. Working with a reputable company can ensure you get the service and support you need, including any technical issues with your device. You can see our recommended suppliers that take insurance for CPAP here.

What to Buy

Besides the actual CPAP device, you’ll need several accessories to actually start CPAP treatment. These include the mask, tubing, and a filter Trusted Source StatPearls View Source . 

In most cases, your initial purchase will come with tubing and a filter, but you may need to get a mask separately. When buying without insurance, you can typically find bundles that include the device, tubing, filter, and a mask, allowing you to quickly get started with CPAP therapy. However, you will have to pay for replacements for the accessories over time as they wear out or get dirty.  

Optional products that you can purchase to enhance your experience using a CPAP machine include: 

• Mask inserts or cushions
• Headgear
• Heated tubing (to use with heated humidification)
• Tube holders
• CPAP cleaning supplies
• Specially designed CPAP pillows
• A CPAP travel battery or backup battery
• A nightstand built to house a CPAP machine

What to Consider

As you start shopping, you’ll want to keep a few items in mind when comparing different options:

• The type of machine you’ve been prescribed (CPAP, APAP, or BiPAP) Trusted Source Medline Plus MedlinePlus is an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends. View Source
• The kind of mask you need
• The features of the device, including pressure ramp and other pressure adjustments
• The warranty offered by the device manufacturer
• The policies for shipping and returns

Your doctor can often provide helpful recommendations for masks and tubing. An experienced CPAP retailer can also help you understand your options and the details about receiving your device and getting technical support. 

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How Much Is a CPAP Machine Without Insurance?

Without insurance, the average out-of-pocket price for a CPAP machine is anywhere between $500 and $1,200. The final price for any specific device depends on the brand and model and the corresponding functions and features. 

This price generally includes the CPAP device itself, a built-in humidifier, tubing, and a filter. If you purchase a starter bundle, you will usually also get a mask. Other items, such as special headgear, heated tubing, and replacement CPAP supplies, almost always have to be purchased separately. 

The cost of a CPAP machine varies when purchased directly rather than billed to insurance. In some cases, the price charged to an insurance company can be several times higher than the price for individuals. This can dramatically increase out-of-pocket costs for people whose insurance coverage includes a high deductible. 

When shopping without insurance, the price ranges for the CPAP device, tubing, and a mask can vary significantly based on where you buy them as well as the manufacturer and model.

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How to Save Money on a CPAP Machine Without Insurance

If you’re planning to buy a CPAP machine without insurance, a few practical tips can help you save money while still getting a high-quality device for sleep apnea treatment.

Price Shop Between Retailers

Many retailers offer the same CPAP models, which gives you the opportunity to comparison shop to save money. It’s easiest to see different prices when shopping online, but you can also get price quotes for CPAP machines at brick-and-mortar medical supply stores.

When looking for the lowest price, make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. Be sure it’s the same brand and model, and keep in mind that some retailers sell bundles that include more than just the machine.

Look for Refurbished or Discounted Machines

While we advise strongly against buying a used CPAP machine, you may be able to save money by purchasing a refurbished device. Look for one that has been refurbished by the manufacturer or an authorized reseller, and make sure you understand the return and warranty policies before making your purchase.

Skip Nonessential Add-Ons

One of the best ways to cut down the price of a CPAP machine is by skipping non-essential add-ons. For example, some devices may offer features (such as advanced pressure adjustment options) that aren’t required by your prescription. Other add-ons, like heated tubing, are nice to have, but can push the total cost out of your budget.

Use FSA/HSA Funds

You can reduce your out-of-pocket costs by paying for CPAP equipment with funds from a flexible spending account (FSA) or health savings account (HSA). These accounts allow you to set aside part of your paycheck free of income tax as long as it is used for medical expenses Trusted Source Consumer Financial Protection Bureau View Source . Some employers even contribute to employee FSAs Trusted Source Healthcare.gov Healthcare.gov is a website of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that provides information about health insurance and enables individuals and families to explore options for health care coverage. View Source .

By paying for a CPAP machine with FSA or HSA funds, you can save on your taxes and avoid having to take money out of other bank accounts.

Check Manufacturer Promotions or Financing Plans

Some CPAP manufacturers sell their products directly to consumers, and they occasionally offer promotions that reduce the price of CPAP equipment. Manufacturer discounts may also be available through medical supply stores online.

If you need a CPAP machine and have limited funds available, you can ask about financing plans, which allow you to pay in installments over time.

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