FACTS . . .

• 18 million people suffer from OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea)
• OSA is as common as Diabetes and Asthma
• 4 out of 100 men ages 30 to 60 suffer from OSA
• 2 out of 100 women ages 30 to 60 suffer from OSA
• The majority of these remain undiagnosed

Normal Breathing	OSA Breathing	CPAP Therapy
CPAP treats OSA by providing a gentle flow of positive air pressure through a mask which keeps the airway open while you sleep.

Questions . . .

1. Do I need a prescription to purchase CPAP equipment?
2. Is CPAP equipment covered by my insurance provider?
3. Will you bill my insurance company?
4. What is a CPT code?
5. Should I use a nasal mask, a full face mask, or nasal pillows?
6. Why should I use a heated humidifier?
7. What is the difference between an auto, bi-level, and a CPAP machine?

Answers . . .

1. Do I need a prescription to purchase CPAP equipment?
   Yes
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2. Is CPAP equipment covered by my insurance provider?
   This depends on both your provider and the coverage level of your policy. Some providers (e.g. Medicare) require a patient to rent a machine for a certain period before they will reimburse a purchase. Some providers will reimburse any purchase from any company.   top of page
    
3. Will you bill my insurance company?
   Yes
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4. What is a CPT code?
   CPT is an acronym for Current Procedure Terminology. CPT codes refer to procedures or services performed by physicians on or for patients. top of page
    
5. Should I use a nasal mask, a full face mask, or nasal pillows?
   Typically, this is a personal issue of comfort. You may want to consider a full face mask if you breath through your mouth while sleeping and/or if you have allergies. If you don't like the invasiveness of wearing a mask over your face, then a nasal pillow may be a better alternative.   top of page
    
6. Why should I use a heated humidifier?
   A heated humidifier can deliver more moisture due to the higher temperature of the air. Also, many patients prefer the comfort of the heated air.   top of page
    
7. What is the difference between an auto, bi-level, and a CPAP machine?
   A CPAP machine is designed to deliver one constant pressure throughout the night (except during the ramp time). A bi-level or bi-pap machine is designed to deliver two pressures, an inhalation pressure and an exhalation pressure. An auto-titrating machine automatically determines the correct pressure necessary at any given time which tends to reduce the average pressure delivered throughout the night and therefore sometimes results in a higher level of patient compliance.   top of page