Insurance

The rent of auto-CPAP machines and CPAP masks is not unheard of. In fact it is a very common practice. Even the American Sleep Apnea Association recommends rental for a period of time before you buy the machine and mask.

The rent of auto-CPAP machines and CPAP masks (or any other type of CPAP machine for that matter) would help you a lot in deciding which type of mask and machine you ultimately want. This is because wearing the mask is a very individual matter. Some masks may prove to be very uncomfortable; some may be decently comfortable, while others would give you a proper sleep. It depends on a lot of things such as your structure, your preferences while sleeping etc. If you directly go for purchase you might end up with an unsuitable mask and machine combo. This would actually put you off from using the machine (62% of failure in CPAP treatment is because of non compliance). The discomfort may even result in sleep problems if you continue using the machine. Such being the case it really is better to try out the different masks and find out the one which suits you best before you buy.

The rent of auto-CPAP machines and CPAP masks would not cause you problems with insurance coverage. At least not in all cases since the terms vary from insurance to insurance. Some policies allow for renting before purchase. Some even insist on renting for a few months before you purchase the machine and mask. Some such as Medicare allows for capped rental where the machine will become your own after a few months. Just check out the insurance coverage and find out the terms regarding renting. Even if it does not, it is better to rent since that way you won't end up with a mask which you would hate. After all, the ultimate purpose of the system is your sleep apnea treatment and that would not be successful if you are not comfortable with the mask or the machine.