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CPAP Machine Recall Leaves Patients High and Dry

Submitted by New Jersey Snoring Solutions on Thu 07/28/2022 - 09:00
Cpap machine recall

At New Jersey Sleep Apnea Solutions, dentists Dr. Ivan Stein and Dr. Allan Stein have helped many patients who want to find a reliable alternative to CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines. While many of these patients prefer the ease and safety of a custom oral appliance to treat their sleep apnea, others are seeking this alternative due to a massive recall of a popular brand of CPAP machines.

CPAP Recall Details

In the summer of 2021, the FDA announced a recall of millions of CPAP machines manufactured by Royal Philips, a Dutch company. The Washington Post reported that foam used to dull the noise of the machine could get into the air hoses, emitting harmful chemicals. When breathed in, this disintegrated foam was found to cause ailments including asthma, lung damage, headaches and cancer. The FDA warned that continued use of these CPAP machines could lead to “serious injuries or deaths.”

Over a year later, problems with the recall persist. Royal Philips was obligated to fix or replace the affected machines, but that has yet to happen with approximately half of the machines in the United States so far. The company cites supply chain issues and a need to produce three times as many machines than it has in years past as reasons for the slow implementation.

The Ramifications of This Botched Recall

Currently, about 1.5 million Americans are waiting for new machines. These individuals have had to make tough choices. Some have continued to use the recalled machine because they don’t have an alternative. Others have simply opted to stop treating their sleep apnea altogether. Both scenarios leave patients in grave danger. Untreated sleep apnea can cause health problems like stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, cardiac arrest and death.

With little alternative, some people have purchased new CPAP machines from different companies, hoping Royal Philips will be made to reimburse them in the future. Unfortunately, the cost of a CPAP machine can be prohibitively expensive to some patients affected by the recall. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, only cover the cost of a new CPAP machine after five years. Alas, this wait time even applies in instances where an existing machine has been recalled.

Try a Great Alternative to CPAP Machines

Whether you have been impacted by this recall or are wary of having to rely on a CPAP machine in the first place, you may be a strong candidate for an oral appliance to treat your sleep apnea. The dental team at New Jersey Sleep Apnea Solutions can create a custom device that fits comfortably in your mouth at night. By holding your airway open, you can get a full night of sleep with regular breathing and reduced snoring. For an appointment, please call (855) 949-7667 today.