Sleepy CJ wrote:
Hi everyone. I had my sleep study last night. I was told that I was moderate (not sure what this means) and that my DR will get a report in 1-2 weeks. Will I get a copy of this? Looks like Im getting a cpap. Does the DR get me one? It is covered by my insurance, but wondering how to obtain. I hope that this will allow me to get my energy back. What can I expect from my post study visit with my doc?
Chris
Hi Chris,
You absolutely SHOULD get a copy of the sleep study report. If the doctor does not offer you a copy, insist on one. If he refuses, ask the sleep study clinic for one. But I don't think you'll have any problem getting one. Point is, not only is it your right to have a copy, it is a necessity. I don't know about most people, but even though the doctor showed me the report and went over most of it, I was in a brain fog and knew I wouldn't remember much of what he explained. That report has a lot of important information about your condition and treatment.
The doctor may likely discuss the results and recommend a type of machine. If he doesn't specifiy a type of machine (straight cpap, auto cpap, bipap), I would try and ask questions about what kind you need. And even if he tells you why type you need, ask why, ask for an explanation.
As to insurance, I'm not a good one to ask. My insurance was awful, and it was limiting on where to get the equipment. My doctor's office handled it all with my insurance and it was shipped to me. Ask your doctor and the insurance, if need be, about what is the next step. There are local DMEs (durable medical equipment providers) where you go and they work with you on getting equipment, maybe even try different masks. You might want to read up on features like c-flex, auto cpaps, etc. Some machines with different features are more expensive and your insurance may not pay the extra costs. Oh, you will absolutely need a heated humidifier, and you might check with the doctor that the heated humidifier is part of the prescription. That way, it too is covered by your insurance. The doctor writes a prescription for your machine, the same type of prescriptoin you see for medications. The companies selling the equipment need that prescription (often the doctor's office faxes copies to the vendors). Some people purchase their equipment online. There are advantages and disadvantages to buying either way. If you're prescribed an auto cpap or a bipap, you might ask the doctor if you can get one that can download information about your condition and how you are doing on the machine. Not every machine has that capability. It's just good to know your options.
Whatever you do, you're on the right track. Getting your health back is most important. Good luck to you. I'm sure others here will have some good advice.
Linda
