Many veterans rely on a CPAP machine to treat service-connected sleep apnea. Because of this, the Philips Respironics recall of millions of these devices has caused a lot of concern. If you use a Philips CPAP or BiPAP machine, it’s important to know if your device is part of the recall and what steps to take next.
This guide explains which machines have been recalled, the potential health risks, and what you should do to protect yourself.
Why were the Philips machines recalled?
In June 2021, Philips Respironics began a voluntary recall for millions of its CPAP, BiPAP, and ventilator devices. The recall now affects about 15 million devices made between 2009 and April 26, 2021.
The issue is with the polyester-based polyurethane (PE-PUR) foam used inside the machines to reduce sound and vibration. This foam can break down into black pieces or release certain chemicals that users could breathe in or swallow. This breakdown may be worsened by exposure to hot and humid conditions or by using ozone cleaners not recommended by the manufacturer.
According to reports, potential health risks from exposure may include:
- Headache or dizziness
- Upper airway irritation (including rhinitis and sinusitis)
- Cough
- Chest pressure
Which CPAP and BiPAP machines are on the recall list?
The recall applies to many devices in the DreamStation and SystemOne series, among others. If you have a Philips machine, check this list to see if your model is included.
Recalled Philips Devices:
- A-Series BiPAP A30
- A-Series BiPAP A40 (ventilator)
- A-Series BiPAP Hybrid A30
- A-Series BiPAP V30 Auto (ventilator)
- C-Series ASV (ventilator)
- C-Series S/T and AVAPS
- DreamStation
- DreamStation ASV
- DreamStation Go
- DreamStation ST, AVAPS
- Dorma 400
- Dorma 500
- E30
- Garbin Plus, Aeris, LifeVent (ventilator)
- OmniLab Advanced+
- REMstar SE Auto
- SystemOne ASV4
- SystemOne (Q-Series)
- Trilogy 100 (ventilator)
- Trilogy 200 (ventilator)
- Certain Trilogy Evo ventilators distributed between April 15, 2021, and May 24, 2021
Will Philips replace my recalled CPAP machine?
Yes. In an April 2024 consent decree, Philips was ordered by a federal court to provide relief to patients affected by the recall.
Under this agreement, Philips must follow a Recall Remediation Plan. This means patients are entitled to receive one of the following options:
- A new replacement device
- A reworked/remediated device
- A partial refund for certain machines
Philips is prioritizing the replacement process based on patient needs, taking into account factors like age, the severity of a patient’s sleep apnea, and other related health conditions.
What to Do if Your Machine Is on the List
If you find your machine is part of the recall, here are the steps to take.
1. Talk to your doctor first
You should not stop using your device without first speaking with your doctor or a VA healthcare provider. For some people, particularly those with severe sleep apnea, cardiovascular conditions, or who are in safety-critical jobs like professional driving, the health risks of stopping therapy may be greater than the potential risks from the foam. Your doctor can help you make the best decision for your health.
2. Register your device with Philips
To receive a replacement device or a potential refund, you will need to register your recalled machine with Philips.
- Online: Go to the Philips Respironics recall website.
- By phone: Call +1-877-907-7508.
You will need the serial number located on your device.
3. Stop using ozone cleaners
Both the FDA and Philips have advised against using ozone or ultraviolet (UV) light cleaners, as they were not authorized for this purpose and may worsen the foam’s breakdown. Only clean your machine and its parts as instructed by the manufacturer.
How This Affects Your VA Disability Claim
If you were issued a recalled Philips CPAP machine through the VA and have since developed new health issues, such as respiratory problems, you may be able to file a claim for additional VA benefits. These new conditions could potentially be service-connected on a secondary basis to your sleep apnea.
If the VA has denied your claim for a condition you believe is connected to a recalled CPAP machine, don’t give up. Contact our team for a free consultation to review your case and see how we can help.
