CPAP Question

[AirForce]

I have a question regarding the CPAP. I just went through a MEB and I about to start terminal leave for medical retirement. One of my secondary conditions was OSA w/ CPAP. I currently have the the CPAP as I was given it while I was on active duty. Can I continue to use this one or am I required to get one from the VA? The VA rated me 50 % for the OSA. Thanks!

 

[Warrior644]

I have a question regarding the CPAP. I just went through a MEB and I about to start terminal leave for medical retirement. One of my secondary conditions was OSA w/ CPAP. I currently have the the CPAP as I was given it while I was on active duty. Can I continue to use this one or am I required to get one from the VA? The VA rated me 50 % for the OSA. Thanks!

Indeed, congratulations on your forthcoming military disability retirement!

In reference to your OSA with CPAP medical condition, please continue to use the current CPAP machine provided while on active duty as I was informed to do the same prior to my start of military transition leave then placement onto the military TDRL.

Upon your official transition as a military veteran and establishment of a PCP at the nearest VAMC, make the inquiry as to the status of your CPAP machine. Unless the current CPAP machine is malfunctioning and/or more than three years old, it seems that you shall potentially keep the currently issued CPAP machine via active duty forces in the USAF.

Moreover, it's important to continue to use your OSA w/ CPAP machine as the VAMC shall periodically ask for the mini SD card to check on your compliance and validate your current usage. Any documented non-compliance issues could potentially raise concern for a change in your DoVA 50% rating (e.g., a potential decrease to a DoVA 30% rating) unless the reasons are well documented in your VA medical records (C-File) as to the reason(s) why non-compliance is occurring. Take care and continue to enjoy life!

Thus, I quite often comment that "possessing well-informed knowledge is truly a powerful equalizer."

Best Wishes!

 

[scoutCC]

Check to make sure they bought your CPAP, usually done when they switch you to a permanent profile. There is an evaluation period where they decide if CPAP will address the issue and the machines are rented for that time period. Shouldn't be a problem getting the provider to make sure its taken out of the rental terms to permanent. You will also want to make sure the VA is switched to provide the replacements. If you stick with TRICARE sending you replacement filters, masks, etc. there is a copay as a retiree.