Are sleep clinics legit/helpful, or a scam?

HImom
Sat, 20 Mar 2010 04:45:06 +0000

Getting patient to the doc–you can say it’s bothering YOUR sleep because he snores so loudly & you understand it may increase his risk for serious heart problems. THAT might get his attention.

Insurers generally cover sleep studies ordered by your reputable MD. My S had one, as did my brother. LOUD snoring is a sign of possible sleep apnea and needs to be discussed with the doc, as well as possibly investigated.

Some sleep labs offer the option of having the sleep study in the patient’s own home, but many are done in very comfortable settings that look a lot like nice hotel rooms. The one my S went to is in the hospital (which is handy, in case anything goes wrong and prompt medical attention is needed). If your insurer covers the study, the co-pay is pretty minimal, but check so you’re not surprised.

Sleep apnea and other sleep issues are not inconveniences, they can shorten the patient’s life and should not be made light of or ignored. Those who I know who have been diagnosed and fitted properly with a Bi-Pap or C-Pap say it has made a world of difference in their energy level and health.