This is specifically about the part of Samaritan Health Services that provides cpap equipment. Was any of my experience good? I suppose one or two things - a couple of the techs were nice and helpful- but no one could return a phone call. I've had a cpap machine for 14 years with a different company, which I only left because my insurance made me. I had zero problems in that 14 year period, and I had two machines that lasted 7 years each - and the water reservoirs had no problems.
This water reservoir leaked after a couple of months. I left several messages with a receptionist who said someone would call me back. Didn't happen. I finally called on a weekend and the weekend guy got me to someone who got me a replacement. Then the machine itself started emitting a high pitched whine - constantly. These machines cost around $1400 to $1500 each and at that price ought to work without trouble. They don't. That machine was replaced, and I only had to make 3 phone calls before someone called me back. It came with a new reservoir, which after a few months began to leak - exactly like the first one.
Again I phoned repeatedly, without a call back, and finally went to the office with my water reservoir in my arms, and was told by the receptionist that "the supervisor is in a meeting" and all the "respiratory techs were also in a meeting." Imagine my surprise to see one of the techs come out to speak with a patient, and a woman pass through the reception area who I later learned was the supervisor. I phoned the main Samaritan office and complained. Then I got a phone call from the cpap supervisor, telling me to come pick up a new reservoir. I was asked to speak with a tech, who told me that this was all my fault, including when the machine was squealing. I think after 14 years, and no malfunctions, I know better. The word "supercilious" is a 5 syllable way of saying "snotty."
If you can get your insurance company to let you - do not use this service. Some insurance companies will give you an exception and let you use another company - do it - it will be a much better experience. They didn't have their act together a year ago - they don't have their act together now. Some customer service training for the supervisor and staff (every receptionist I dealt with was pleasant and tried to be helpful it's the tech staff and supervisor who need some work) might help - returning phone calls would be a good start. Attitude and help might be another place to work on. read more