Many medical supply stores offer the option to rent a CPAP machine. If you’ve been prescribed continuous positive airway pressure therapy to treat sleep apnea or another breathing condition, renting a CPAP device can be a viable option if you are hesitant to commit to a specific machine purchase or need an additional travel machine for a brief period.
We’ll take a closer look at the process of renting a CPAP machine, including where to find rental devices, how much they typically cost per month, and how rent-to-own arrangements work.
Who Should Consider Renting a CPAP Machine?
If you’re new to CPAP therapy, it may be advantageous to rent a CPAP machine for a short-term period. This provides flexibility and gives you the chance to fine-tune your treatment, in consultation with your doctor, before deciding on a specific device to use for the long term.
If you already own a CPAP machine and don’t want to purchase a separate travel CPAP machine to take on the road, some online and brick-and-mortar retailers offer rentals of compact travel devices on a weekly or monthly basis.
Are CPAP Machines Available on a Rent-to-Own Basis?
Many insurance companies require that you rent a CPAP machine for a set period and provide proof of therapy compliance. If you make regular payments and adhere to CPAP therapy during the full rental term, you then own the machine.
Some CPAP retailers or medical supply stores may allow you to apply your previous monthly rental fees toward the purchase of the rental unit.
How to Rent a CPAP Machine
Renting a CPAP machine is a fairly straightforward process, but it’s important to note that specific policies vary between rental providers. Some may require a refundable deposit, which ensures the equipment’s safe return.
Many companies have a minimum rental period of one month, though some allow rentals on a week-to-week basis. Others set fixed rental periods without the option to extend the rental term. Be aware of potential late fees for overdue returns, and make sure to clarify all terms before finalizing the rental agreement.
A prescription is required to rent a CPAP machine. After you take a sleep test, you will need to consult with a doctor about your needs and options before being given a prescription.
Where to Find CPAP Machine Rentals
CPAP machine rentals can be found both online and at brick-and-mortar stores. Online options provide convenience and a wider range of choices, making it easy to compare features and prices. In-person rentals from local medical supply stores offer personalized assistance and immediate access to a CPAP machine.
What’s Included in a CPAP Rental?
A typical CPAP rental package includes the CPAP machine and standard tubing. You generally need to purchase a CPAP mask separately to use with the rental machine. Some rentals may offer additional accessories, such as a carrying case or heated tubing, depending on the package you choose.
Can You Use Insurance or Medicare to Rent a CPAP Machine?
Many insurance companies have rent-to-own provisions, in which the insured must make a set number of monthly payments before they own the CPAP machine. Insurers typically require proof of therapy adherence in this scenario.
Some insurance carriers may require that you purchase the machine out of pocket and seek reimbursement. Note that you may need to meet your deductible before coverage kicks in. Check with your insurance provider for details specific to your plan.
Medicare stipulates that new CPAP users start with a three-month trial period. If the trial period is successful, you must meet your Part B deductible before Medicare pays 80% of rental costs for 13 months. During this time, Medicare requires proof that you’ve been using the machine regularly and that it has been improving your sleep apnea symptoms based on a doctor’s determination. After 13 months of successful CPAP therapy, you own the machine.
What About an FSA or HSA?
Since CPAP machines are considered durable medical equipment, they are generally considered an eligible expense for flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts. However, not all CPAP retailers accept FSA and HSA debit cards, which may require reimbursement of eligible out-of-pocket expenses. Check with your FSA or HSA administrator for plan specifics, and keep records and receipts of your CPAP-related costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rental insurance for a CPAP machine is typically not required, as many rental providers offer coverage for potential damages as part of the rental agreement. However, it’s wise to clarify the terms of the agreement.
Depending on the rental provider, monthly CPAP machine rental costs can range anywhere from $30 to $250. The cost of renting a CPAP machine also varies based on factors like the CPAP model and included accessories. Newer models with more advanced features typically cost more. Some companies offer discounted rates for longer rental periods.
About The Author
Staff Writer, Product Testing Team
Alison is a health writer with ample experience reading and interpreting academic, peer-reviewed research. Based in San Diego, she is published in the journal PLOS Genetics and the Journal of Biological Chemistry and has been a copywriter for SmartBug media. With a master’s degree in biochemistry from the University of California, Davis, she has nearly a decade of academic research experience in life sciences. She enjoys helping people cut through the noise to understand the bigger picture about sleep and health. Alison likes to stay active with rock climbing, hiking, and walking her dog.
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