Frequently Asked Questions

Medquarters

Who is Medquarters?

Medquarters was created to provide easy, convenient access to affordable medical equipment when and how people want it. This is ideal for people who want to take charge of their own healthcare, and determine when is the right time to replace equipment. It is also a very important resource for those facing high deductibles, co-pays, and coinsurance. Medquarters helps people who want to get their equipment on their own schedule, not when an insurance company tells them it is okay (or isn’t).

Do you file insurance?

No, Medquarters is a cash-only retailer that does not file insurance on your behalf or deal directly with insurance companies. However, depending on your health plan and insurance provider, you may be able to file a claim with your insurance on your own behalf. Check with your insurance provider to see if you are eligible. Click here to read more about filing an insurance claim.

What do I need to order?

All you need to order is a valid prescription (for certain items) and credit card.

What is your return policy?

Medquarters accepts returns on any unopened product within 30 days of the original ship date. All products purchased come with the manufacturer’s standard warranty. Product(s) must be unused and in original packaging with Instruction/Warranty paperwork. A credit will be issued less a 15% restocking fee on special order items. Shipping costs are non-refundable. Click here to read more about our policies.

What are your hours of operation?

You can checkout anytime on the online store. We’re available for phone consultation Monday – Friday from 8am to 5pm CST at 888-547-0242. You can also email us anytime at emailus@medquarters.info.

What is Subscribe & Save?

Subscribe & Save is our subscription service to save you time and money on your regular supply orders. Click here to read more.

 

Sleep

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?

OSA occurs when breathing is interrupted by a physical block of airflow despite effort. The upper airway becomes narrow as the muscles relax naturally during sleep. This reduces oxygen in the blood and causes arousal from sleep. OSA has also been associated with many harmful side effects, including damage to the heart and mild cognitive impairment. The most common symptoms are excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, and gasping for air during sleep.

What is Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) Therapy?

Positive Airway Pressure Therapy is a common treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). A PAP machine provides air pressure through a mask to keep your airway from collapsing while you sleep. There are different types of PAP therapy, including:

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

CPAP therapy is the standard treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and delivers continuous pressure while you sleep. This pressure is determined during your sleep study.

Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure

Bilevel is another option that is similar to CPAP, but instead of providing one consistent level of pressure, there’s one pressure level when you breathe in (inspiratory positive airway pressure – IPAP) and a different pressure level when you breathe out (expiratory positive airway pressure – EPAP). The EPAP level is usually lower than the IPAP level, making it easier to exhale. Bilevel is great for those who have issues breathing against the continual pressure, and can also benefit those who require breathing assistance or have a cardiopulmonary disorder (congestive heart failure, etc.).

Automatic Positive Airway Pressure (Auto PAP)

Auto PAP incorporates pressure sensors and a computer which continuously monitors your breathing performance. It adjusts pressure continuously, increasing it when you are attempting to breathe but cannot, and decreasing it when the pressure is higher than necessary.

 

How do I maintain my PAP supplies?

Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific cleaning instructions. Here are some general instructions that should cover most supplies:

  1. Submerge the mask, headgear, tubing, and connectors in warm, soapy water. Allow them to soak for about 30 minutes. Some pieces may be dishwasher-safe. Refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
  2. Remove the pieces and wipe them out with a soft cloth and warm water.
  3. Allow everything to air-dry on a drying rack or towel.
  4. When everything is dry, reassemble the various parts.

Supplies are designed for comfort, not longevity and need to be replaced regularly.

How often do I need to replace my PAP supplies?

It is recommended you change your supplies regularly to get the most out of your therapy. Refer to the table below for how often you should change your individual supplies.

Full Face Cushion

Once a month

Disposable Filter (white)

Twice a month

Replaceable Pillows or Cushions

Twice a month

Mask

Every 3 months

Tubing

Every 3 months

Non-Disposable Filter (grey)

Every 6 months

Headgear

Every 6 months

Disposable Heated Humidification Chamber

Every 6 months

Chin Strap

Every 6 months

 

Does my PAP machine come with a warranty?

Most of our devices are covered under warranty for 2 years. If you have any issues, please contact us and we will help you deal with the manufacturer.

Does my PAP machine only work with certain masks?

No, all masks are universal and should work with any PAP machine.

 

Oxygen

What is Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)?

COPD is a progressive disease which causes airway obstruction and tissue destruction. An umbrella disease for chronic bronchitis and emphysema, COPD causes airway inflammation, extra mucus in the airways, loss of elasticity in the lung tissue, and alveoli damage. Common signs include shortness of breath, chronic cough with mucus, and chronic fatigue.

What is Oxygen Therapy?

Oxygen therapy is used to treat people with low oxygen saturation levels. This can be due to several factors including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Oxygen therapy is usually administered via a nasal cannula through oxygen concentrators or liquid oxygen tanks.