Frequently Asked Questions
INDEX
How do I …? Where can I find …?
How do I become a Member of IVUN?
It is very easy. Just push this button!
How do I connect with other ventilator users?
1. You can join an online chat group (See Resource Directory for Ventilator-Assisted Living.)
2. You can peruse and ask a question on Can You Help?
3. You can peruse and offer a suggestion on What Works for Me
How do I …?
How do I find someone who could make use of a ventilator(s) that we own, but can no longer use?
IVUN's Ventilatory Equipment Exchange is a location on IVUN’s site where individuals can “advertise” the availability of equipment. Please send the description of the equipment and how people can contact you to info@ventusers.org. IVUN will let you know when it is posted and asks that you let us know when it is no longer available.
Where can I find …?
Where can I find basic information about living with a ventilator at home?
IVUN’s 14-page booklet Information About Ventilator-Assisted Living is in a Q and A format and provides answers for individuals with a neuromuscular condition that may necessitate part time or fulltime use of a breathing device.
Where can I find information/statements from professionals about home care for individuals living at home on a ventilator?
The American Thoracic Society published a “Statement on Home Care for Patients with Respiratory Disorders” in 2005 (Am J Respir Crit Care Med, Vol 171. pp 1443-1464)
Where can I find health professionals who are expert in home mechanical ventilation?
IVUN maintains Resource Directory for Ventilator-Assisted Living that lists Health Professionals from all over the world. It also lists Facilities with Long-Term Ventilator Units, Ventilator Equipment and Aids, Manufacturers of Ventilator Equipment and Aids, and Organizations, Associations and Foundations.
Where can I find a facility (beyond the hospital) that will accept a person on a ventilator?
IVUN maintains Resource Directory for Ventilator-Assisted Living that features a section that lists Facilities with Long-Term Ventilator Units. Many of the facilities listed specialize in weaning individuals off of a ventilator or in preparing ventilator users to go back to their home.
Where can I find information to assist me in flying with my ventilator?
IVUN publishes experiential articles about flying with a ventilator. Check out the Travel Section of its Past Issues list on this site. Other resources include these governmental sites:
- Vent users in the USA should consult FAA Passengers with Disabilities
- The Department of Transportation’s site Passengers with Disabilities
- The Transportation Security Administration’s site Travelers with Disabilities and Medical Conditions (Air Travel)
Where can I find the regulations for traveling with a disability post-September 11th?
The following website from the US Transportation Security Administration is for travelers www.tsa.gov/travelers. Click on "Travelers with Disabilities and Medical Conditions" to find specific regulations.
Where can I find coding information for portable ventilators and respiratory assist devices?
Puritan Bennett has two excellent documents on their website that explains coding, etc.
www.puritanbennett.com/remb/ventilators.aspx
www.puritanbennett.com/remb/sleep.aspx
The company site also has a Solvit Center that is very helpful.
Respironics also has an informative page "Helpful Hints for Filing Claims."
Where can I find examples of respiratory homecare programs?
There are many programs listed in the “Health Professionals” section of IVUN's Resource Directory for Ventilator-Assisted Living. Also, check the link below: (If we should add your program, let us know.)
British Columbia Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program