Donating Used CPAP Machine/Supplies Can Change a Life
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If you are one of the millions of people who use a CPAP or BiPAP machine, due to sleep-related breathing disorders including sleep apnea or COPD, you undoubtedly get to the point where you need to get a new machine. This is typically due to the age of the machine, or simply because, if you are one of the lucky Americans who has health insurance, because your insurance says you are “due” to receive a new machine.
Typically, patients who are insured, are eligible to receive a new CPAP or BiPAP machine every five years, with most insurance plans. This means that patients end up with an old CPAP or BiPAP machine stuffed somewhere in the back of their closet every five years — just sitting there, collecting dust. But these CPAP or BiPAP machines could be helping people who are not lucky enough to have insurance, and therefore cannot afford these very expensive — and life-saving machines.
What’s more — many groups that accept old CPAP or BiPAP machines are 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations, which means that the equipment and the postage you spent to mail the unit to them are all tax-deductible. Check and see if the group you are donating to is a 501(c)(3) or not, if you are looking for a tax deduction. Typically, you can do this by looking on their website under an “About Us” link.
Don’t have a used machine, but have unopened CPAP or BiPAP supplies? Donate them! These organizations are always looking for unopened supplies. Even power cords, gently used travel bags, hose holders, and other accessories. If it is still useable — they need it. And if all else, these organizations are always more than happy to receive financial support to help provide this life-saving equipment to those who are disadvantaged.
PLEASE NOTE: It is very important to NEVER donate a used CPAP or BiPAP machine to Goodwill or the Salvation Army. NEVER! Why? Because CPAP and BiPAP machines are medical equipment. Goodwill and the Salvation Army cannot therefore sell these machines in their resale stores because the person buying the machine must have a valid prescription in order to purchase the unit, and Goodwill and the Salvation Army don’t deal with doctor’s prescriptions. Therefore, any CPAP and BiPAP machines that are donated to them are simply destroyed.
Also, please note that it is illegal to attempt to sell a CPAP or BiPAP (used or new) on eBay or any similar website unless you are a licensed medical equipment dealer, for the same reason. The buyer must provide a prescription.
Here are some national organizations that accept used CPAP or BiPAP machines. There are many, many more than just this list — a simple google search can provide many even in your local area. There are also some who can only accept donations from certain states, so please review their donation requirements carefully. When in doubt, call or email the organization BEFORE you mail your equipment. (Note: these links will take you outside of Medium.com)
- http://www.reggiewhitefoundation.org/support/default.asp
- https://www.sleephealth.org/asaa/cpap-machine-donation
- https://lungsrus.org/cpap-machine-donations
Many people have no idea what to do with their old CPAP or BiPAP machines that are still in working order and have not been recalled by the manufacturer. Believe it or not — even many pulmonologists and durable medical equipment companies have no clue that old CPAP or BiPAP units can be donated!! Therefore, PLEASE spread the word.
At your next appointment — please share this article with your doctor and the people who provide you with your CPAP or BiPAP supplies. Make sure they spread the word to their associates. The more people who know this information, the more people will be able to receive this life-saving equipment.
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