Dear Veteran:  

Your safety is our top priority. This email is to update you on the recall of some Philips Respironics Positive Airway Pressure devices (CPAP or BiPAP) used for sleep apnea. If you do not have a Philips Respironics device, it is not part of the recall and you can ignore this email.

Philips Respironics recently recalled some CPAP and BiPAP devices due to breakdown of the foam used to reduce sound and vibration. Additional information on the recall is available from Philips Respironics.

Some Veterans have not yet registered their CPAP or BiPAP device with Philips Respironics. You will not receive a replacement until your current device is registered. To register your recalled device, go to the Philips Respironics website or call 877-907-7508. Philips Respironics will provide a replacement device when one is available as well as a prepaid return label to send them your old device. This may take a year or more.

Priority for replacement. In mid-December 2021 Philips Respironics began requesting patient’s health information to prioritize replacement of devices. If you have not yet provided your health information, please contact Philips through their website or by phone. This may help you get a replacement device faster.

This recall has led to a shortage of CPAP and BiPAP machines worldwide from all manufacturers. Current supply chain issues related to microchip production and shipping from international manufacturers is causing additional delays.

Philips Respironics guidance notes that the likelihood of foam breakdown is higher in older devices, those that are used in high heat and humidity environments (more than 95 degrees), or that were cleaned with an ozone sterilizing device.

If you use a Philips Respironics CPAP or BiPAP device, such as a Dream Station or System 1, continue to use your device as prescribed, register the device and:

• If you are concerned about using your current device, contact your care team to schedule an appointment. Veterans who receive their care from the VA can send a secure message to their care team through MyHealtheVet
• Do not attempt to remove the sound reduction foam. This can’t be done without breaking the machine.
• If you and your care team decide you can safely pause use of your device until a new one is available, this will not impact any related VA disability compensation benefits.
• Tips to improve Sleep Apnea are found here.
• Only clean your device following the manufacturer’s instructions. Use of an ozone sterilization cleaner may be related to foam breakdown.

For more information on the recall, visit the Philips Respironics Recall website or the VA Philips Respironics Recall site for frequently asked questions.