Hmmm, if my regimen was working, bronchiectasis stable and no or few exacerbations in a year, I would be very unwilling to "upset the apple cart" - especially if I had to pay for the privilege.
Here's a sample of the questions I would ask my doc:
1) How many bronchiectasis patients do you have using this device?
2) Why would this be an improvement over what I am doing since my lungs are stable?
3) Is there a less cumbersome and less expensive option to try first, like a hand held vibratory device? (eg Aerobika or Acapella)
4) All the literature (or ads) talk about delivering medication - does that mean you will be adding drugs to my regimen, and if so, why?
5) Is there a downside to not doing this, since I am stable & healthy with the current regimen?

Questions for the rep:
1) Show me the statistics for people with bronchiectasis
2) What is the learning curve?
3) Who supports me and for how long?
4) I there a trial period during which I can get my money back?
5) Do you or the doctor get a commission or other compensation if I get this?

Now remember, I am a born skeptic, but I would be reluctant to jump into this without a lot of evidence. I think the real audience for this device is people with CF, whose mucus is much more widely distributed in the lungs and very sticky, and post-op patients who are susceptible to pneumonia and often have a hard time coughing.

The one situation that MIGHT tempt me is if I could get rid of the vest and just use the Volara...

Anyone else out there using the Volara or another nebulizer/vibrator/PEP combo? Do you use it with a percussion vest or instead of one? Did you try other therapies first?

Sue

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