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A suction machine uses suction to remove excess mucus and saliva that can accumulate in your mouth when your ability to swallow is impaired.
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A suction machine can help you breathe more easily, choke less when eating and drinking, and generally feel more comfortable. It is often used in conjunction with the cough assist machine, which pulls phlegm from your lungs into your mouth. The suction machine has an internal battery, which makes it portable.
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How can I get one?
If you are having trouble swallowing, your neurologist will order you a suction machine. No test is needed, and you do not need to meet any other specific criteria. A durable medical equipment (DME) company will process the order through insurance and deliver the suction machine to you at home or at your ALS clinic. A respiratory therapist will train you how to use and maintain it.
How much will I have to pay?
Suction machines are fairly inexpensive. They are considered rentals for the first 13 months and are covered through Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans. After 13 months, the machine becomes yours and your supplies will continue to be covered by your insurance.
Medicare will cover 80% of the cost of your monthly rental. Medicaid, supplemental plans, and secondary private insurance should pay for the remaining 20%. If you have Medicare but do not have Medicaid, a supplemental plan, or secondary private insurance, you will likely have to pay the remaining 20% out of your own pocket.
If you do not qualify for Medicare—but have Medicaid and/or private insurance—find out what your durable medical equipment (DME) benefits will cover. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, be sure to ask about your DME benefits.
If you are facing out-of-pocket expenses that you cannot afford, talk with your DME provider and/or local ALS organization about financial assistance options. Respiratory equipment is not generally available from loan closets, but you can always ask.
If you have questions about any of this, the social worker at your ALS clinic or someone from your local ALS organization can help guide you through the process.
Military veterans: Your coverage for equipment, including respiratory devices, is different than what is listed here. Learn more.
Medicare will cover 80% of the cost of your monthly rental. Medicaid, supplemental plans, and secondary private insurance should pay for the remaining 20%. If you have Medicare but do not have Medicaid, a supplemental plan, or secondary private insurance, you will likely have to pay the remaining 20% out of your own pocket.
If you do not qualify for Medicare—but have Medicaid and/or private insurance—find out what your durable medical equipment (DME) benefits will cover. If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, be sure to ask about your DME benefits.
If you are facing out-of-pocket expenses that you cannot afford, talk with your DME provider and/or local ALS organization about financial assistance options. Respiratory equipment is not generally available from loan closets, but you can always ask.
If you have questions about any of this, the social worker at your ALS clinic or someone from your local ALS organization can help guide you through the process.
Military veterans: Your coverage for equipment, including respiratory devices, is different than what is listed here. Learn more.
Learn more about your respiratory options...
