With costs for medical procedures, supplies, and doctor visits soaring, having insurance can be the difference between getting proper treatment and prolonged suffering. Naturally, when it comes to sleep apnea, many patients are curious about whether their medical insurance benefits will cover therapy for this serious condition. While no two patients are the same, here’s a closer look at what you could expect from your coverage, and how to find out exactly what your policy allows.
Does Medical or Dental Insurance Cover Sleep Apnea Treatment?
While all plans and policies will vary, in many cases sleep apnea treatments are covered by medical insurance. However, which type of treatment and exactly how much your plan will pay can be very different from person to person, even with plans purchased through the same provider.
The easiest way to determine which benefits your plan allows is to speak to your insurance company directly. This can be done by calling the number on your ID card, visiting their website or app, or by enlisting the help of your sleep dentist’s insurance team.
How Do I Prove to My Insurance Provider I Need Sleep Apnea Treatment?
Before you are approved for a sleep apnea device from your sleep dentist, your medical insurance provider will likely require some documentation about your condition. This typically includes things like sleep test results and diagnostic notes. If you have not yet had sleep testing and are hoping to get this covered by your plan, speak to your sleep dentist about getting a prior authorization.
Does My Medical Insurance Plan Cover an Oral Sleep Appliances?
While most patients are initially recommended CPAP therapy when diagnosed with sleep apnea, some ultimately choose an oral sleep appliance instead. These devices are custom made by a sleep dentist to fit your individual mouth, and don’t rely on awkward masks and uncomfortable forced air to work. However, because they’re only available from dental professionals, it can be a little confusing about which type of insurance will cover them. The good news is that many medical insurance plans will (but generally, not dental insurance), depending on your individual plan. Thankfully, your sleep dentist’s insurance team can easily verify your coverage and see if this option is included on your behalf.
Remember, while medical insurance plans will vary in which conditions and treatments they cover, your sleep dentist wants to help you get the safe, comfortable rest you deserve, and is happy to assist you in getting you approved for an oral appliance. To learn more about your sleep apnea benefits, contact your medical insurance provider, or reach out to your sleep dentist’s insurance team and they’ll be pleased to verify your sleep apnea treatment benefits on your behalf
About Our Practice
At Ponte Vedra Complete Dentistry, we are happy to be insurance friendly and will gladly assist you in filing claims with both dental and medical insurance providers as necessary. If you’re interested in treating sleep apnea with the help of an oral appliance, your medical insurance may cover this device. To learn more about your specific coverage or to book a consultation for sleep apnea treatment, contact us today by visiting our website or calling 904-285-7711.