You’re tired all day, your snoring is becoming hard to ignore, and there may even be pauses in your breathing while you sleep. You know it’s probably time to get things checked out, but there’s another question on your mind: will Medicare cover it?
The answer is that Medicare may cover some parts of the process, provided you meet the relevant eligibility requirements.
Starting With Your GP
If you’re concerned about obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), your GP is a sensible first stop. They can talk with you about symptoms such as loud snoring, gasping during sleep and excessive daytime tiredness.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be referred to a sleep or respiratory physician or for a diagnostic sleep study. In some cases, GPs can refer eligible adults directly for a Medicare-funded sleep study when specific screening criteria are met.
“People are often unsure where to start when they’re worried about sleep apnoea. Speaking with your GP is an important first step, and once you have a diagnosis, we can look at whether a dental appliance may have a place in your treatment plan.”
— Dr Poe Lim (Dentist)
Are Sleep Studies Covered by Medicare?
Medicare rebates are available for certain diagnostic sleep studies when the relevant Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) requirements are met. These include attended studies performed in a sleep laboratory and eligible unattended studies that can be carried out at home.
That doesn’t necessarily mean your test will be completely free. The provider may charge more than the Medicare benefit, leaving you with an out-of-pocket cost. It’s worth asking about fees before booking.
What Happens After a Diagnosis?
If you’re diagnosed with OSA, treatment will depend on its severity, your health and your individual circumstances. Options may include lifestyle changes, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy or an oral appliance fitted by a dentist.
Medicare coverage for your diagnosis doesn’t automatically mean every treatment or appliance will be covered, so it’s important to check costs with the relevant provider and your private health insurer, if you have one.
Ready to Do Something About Your Snoring?
Snoring can be easy to joke about, but when it comes with gasping, interrupted breathing or persistent daytime tiredness, it deserves a closer look.
If you’ve already been assessed for sleep apnoea and an oral appliance has been recommended, contact Chatswood Dental Associates to discuss your dental appliance options.