AG Camacho ensures inclusion of Guam residents in recall of Philips CPAP and BiPAP machines

April 12, 2022- Tamuning, Guam– Guam residents are included in the voluntary recall of CPAP and BiPAP respirator products, according to a response by the Philips Respironics to a letter sent by Attorney General Leevin T. Camacho and attorneys general from other territories.

Attorney General Camacho and Attorneys General Fainu’ulelei Ala’ilimia-Utu, Edward E. Manibusan, and Denise N. George contacted Philips in January 2022 raising concerns after initial plans for the recall only appeared to include residents of all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Based on communications received by patients and distributors, it was unclear whether Philips intended to replace the defective respirator devices in American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, or the Virgin Islands.

In its response, Philips clarified that:
(1) the program extends to device users in all U.S. territories;
(2) Philips will replace affected devices at no cost; and
(3) The replacement devices will be shipped without charge.

“Guam residents who depend on these devices now know they are entitled to a replacement at no cost,” said Attorney General Camacho. “I’m glad to work with my colleagues to ensure that all consumers, regardless of where they live, continue to be included in national product recalls.”

In 2021, Philips Respironics recalled more than 15 million breathing machines produced from 2009 until 2021 because of problems involving the foam used in the manufacturing. It was found that the foam deteriorates and could cause significant health issues like cancer over time.

To learn if you have an affected product, or to register your device for a replacement, visit:
https://www.usa.philips.com/healthcare/e/sleep/communications/src-update/information-for-patients-and-caregivers

Deputy Attorney General Fred Nishihira and Assistant Attorney General Joseph A. Perez from the OAG Consumer Protection Division are handling this matter. If you have questions about the recall, contact (671) 475-2720 or email [email protected]