I made the mistake of going to the first medical equipment store I found when I needed my CPAP (the machine that keeps your airway open while you sleep) machine. They seemed professional, had nice displays, and said they worked with Medicare all the time. Three months later, I got a bill for $850 because they weren't actually Medicare-approved and my insurance covered nothing.
Don't make the same mistake I did. Finding the right supplier matters, and it's easier than you think when you know what to look for.
Why Being Medicare-Approved Actually Matters
Medicare will only pay for your CPAP equipment if you get it from a Medicare-approved supplier. Not Medicare-friendly. Not Medicare-compatible. Approved.
The official term is DMEPOS certified. That stands for Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies. It means the supplier has met Medicare's quality and safety standards and is authorized to bill Medicare.
If you go to a supplier that's not DMEPOS certified, Medicare treats it like you never got the equipment at all. They won't pay a penny, even if the supplier says they'll "work with Medicare" or "help you file a claim."
This isn't like going to an out-of-network doctor where you pay more. This is all or nothing. Either the supplier is approved and Medicare covers 80%, or they're not and you pay 100%.
The Easiest Way to Find Approved Suppliers
The simplest method is to use our supplier directory right here on CPAPLocator.com.
Every single supplier listed in our directory is Medicare DMEPOS certified. We verify this before adding anyone. You can search by your ZIP code and see every approved supplier in your area.
But I'll also show you other ways to verify suppliers, in case you want to double-check or you already have a supplier in mind.
Using Medicare's Official Supplier Directory
Medicare maintains an official directory of approved suppliers. It's free and public.
Go to Medicare.gov and search for "supplier directory" or use this direct link: Medicare.gov/medical-equipment-suppliers
You can search by:
- ZIP code
- City and state
- Supplier name (if you already have one in mind)
- Type of equipment (search for "CPAP" or "respiratory equipment")
The directory will show you every approved supplier in your area, along with their contact information and address.
This database updates regularly, so it's always current. If a supplier loses their certification, they disappear from the list.
What to Ask When You Call
Once you have a list of potential suppliers, call them before you commit to anything. Here's exactly what to ask:
"Are you currently Medicare DMEPOS certified?"
They should answer yes immediately without hesitation. If they pause, give you a long explanation, or say they're working on it, move on to the next supplier.
"Can you verify my Medicare coverage before I come in?"
A good supplier will check your coverage and tell you exactly what you'll owe out of pocket. This takes them about five minutes. If they won't do this over the phone, that's a red flag.
"Do you provide in-person mask fitting and follow-up support?"
You want a supplier who will help you get the right mask, adjust it properly, and be available when you have problems. CPAP equipment almost always needs adjustments in the first few months.
"How do I reach you if I have problems after hours?"
You don't need 24/7 support, but you should be able to reach someone during normal business hours and have a plan for urgent issues.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Some warning signs that a supplier might not be right:
They can't or won't verify Medicare certification. If they get defensive when you ask or say you just have to trust them, walk away.
They push you to buy equipment outright instead of billing Medicare. A legitimate supplier knows how to bill Medicare. If they pressure you to pay cash and file claims yourself, something's wrong.
They want payment before verifying your coverage. Good suppliers verify your insurance first and tell you your expected cost before you commit to anything.
They don't offer mask fitting or follow-up. CPAP treatment requires ongoing support. If they just want to ship you a box and never talk to you again, you'll struggle.
They promise to get you any machine you want without a prescription. Legitimate suppliers require a prescription and follow it. If they're willing to get you whatever you want, they're probably not following the rules.
Local vs. Online Suppliers
You can use either local or online suppliers, as long as they're Medicare-approved.
Local suppliers let you go in person for mask fittings, pick up supplies same-day, and get face-to-face help troubleshooting problems.
Online suppliers might have more selection and can ship everything to your door. Some offer video consultations instead of in-person fitting.
Both can be good options. It depends on what you prefer. Some people want the local support. Others value the convenience of online ordering.
Medicare covers both equally, as long as the supplier is certified.
What About Costco, Amazon, or Other Retailers?
You can buy CPAP equipment from retailers like Costco or Amazon, but Medicare won't cover it.
These retailers sell CPAP equipment, but they're not usually set up to bill Medicare. You'd have to pay out of pocket and file claims yourself, which Medicare generally won't reimburse.
If you're buying a backup mask or extra filters with your own money, these retailers are fine. But for equipment you want Medicare to cover, stick with DMEPOS certified suppliers.
Can You Change Suppliers Later?
Yes. You can switch suppliers anytime.
If you're unhappy with your current supplier's service, support, or prices, you can take your prescription to a different Medicare-approved supplier.
You don't need your doctor's permission to change suppliers. You just need your prescription and your Medicare information.
The only catch: Medicare pays for replacement supplies on a schedule. If you just got masks from Supplier A, Supplier B can't bill Medicare for new masks until the schedule says you're due for replacements. The schedule follows you, not the supplier.
What If There Are No Suppliers Near You?
If you live in a rural area with no local suppliers, you have options.
Online Medicare-approved suppliers can ship equipment anywhere. They provide phone support instead of in-person visits.
Some suppliers have mobile services where they come to you for mask fittings and equipment setup.
Your doctor's office might also know of suppliers who travel to your area regularly.
Don't let location prevent you from getting the equipment you need. Medicare understands not everyone lives near a supplier, which is why they allow online suppliers.
Do You Need a New Supplier If You Move?
Not necessarily.
If you move but stay in the same general area, you can keep your current supplier. If you move far away, you might want to find a local supplier in your new location.
Online suppliers work anywhere in the US, so moving doesn't affect them.
Your Medicare coverage and prescription travel with you. You don't lose coverage just because you moved.
Your Next Step
Here's exactly what to do right now:
1. Search our supplier directory with your ZIP code (use the search tool at the top of this page)
2. Write down the names and phone numbers of 2-3 suppliers near you
3. Call each one and ask the verification questions above
4. Choose the supplier that gives you the clearest answers and makes you feel most comfortable
5. Before your appointment, make sure you have your prescription, your Medicare card, and any supplemental insurance information
Don't overthink this. Once you verify a supplier is Medicare-approved and they seem professional and helpful, you're good to go. You can always switch later if needed.
---
Once you have a supplier, read Does Medicare Cover My CPAP Machine? so you know exactly what to expect from your coverage. And when your supplies come due, here's the exact schedule insurance uses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy a CPAP from Amazon or Costco and have Medicare cover it?
No. Medicare only covers CPAP equipment from a certified DMEPOS (durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics, and supplies) supplier who bills Medicare directly. If you buy it yourself from a retailer, Medicare won't reimburse you.
What if there are no Medicare-approved suppliers near me?
Online Medicare-approved suppliers can ship everything to your door anywhere in the US. They handle mask fittings over video call and provide phone support. You can find them on CPAPLocator.com the same way you'd find local suppliers.
How do I verify my current supplier is actually Medicare-certified?
Call them and ask: "Are you currently Medicare DMEPOS certified?" They should answer yes without hesitation. You can also check the official Medicare supplier directory at medicare.gov and search by their name or ZIP code.
Can I use a Medicare-approved supplier in a different state?
Yes. Your Medicare coverage follows you, not your location. You can use any certified supplier in the US, not just one near where you live.
What happens if my supplier loses their Medicare certification after I become a patient?
You'd need to switch to a new certified supplier. Medicare won't cover new equipment or supplies from a decertified supplier, even if they've served you for years. This is uncommon, but it's worth knowing.
*CPAPLocator.com is a directory service only. We are not a medical provider. Content is for informational purposes only. Always consult your healthcare provider.*