CPAP Care Center Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQ

• What is CPAP?
  CPAP or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, is the treatment of choice for Sleep Apnea. It is an air-blowing device designed to keep constant air pressure in the airways to keep the throat from collapsing as it does with Sleep Apnea. Many clinicians describe this therapy as a pneumatic splint — because it literally is an air splint to hold your throat open.
  
  CPAP Systems consist of a flow generator, air tubing and a mask (usually a nasal mask). The flow generator pushes air through the tubing and nasal mask. The air passes through your nose and into your throat, where the slight pressure keeps your upper airway open. The low air pressure does not interfere with breathing – though some people need a few nights to get used to the sensation of positive airflow.

• What is BiPAPTM?
  BiPAPTM or Bilevel positive airway pressure, are devices that can provide therapy to people with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) if they have found continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy too difficult. Bilevel devices can also provide noninvasive positive pressure ventilation for people with respiratory disorders or other forms of sleep-disordered breathing.
  
  Bilevel therapy works by delivering two different levels of positive air pressure: a higher level of pressure when you inhale and a lower level of pressure when you exhale.

• What is AutoPAP?
  AutoPAP or auto-titration positive airway pressure, is a therapy treatment with a range of set pressures. As the patient sleeps, the device determines the pressure to deliver by the resistance of airflow in the passageways. If the resistance increases, such as in an apnea episode, the pressure will increase to counteract the apnea and open the passageway.

• What is Sleep Apnea?
  Sleep Apnea is a life-threatening and life-altering condition that consists of episodes causing a person to stop breathing while they are asleep. Sleep Apnea effects more than 12 million Americans and is as common as adult diabetes.
  
  Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs when a person repeatedly stops breathing during sleep because his/her airway collapses and prevents air from getting into the lungs. Sleep is repeatedly disrupted by apneas, depriving OSA sufferers from the deepest, most restful stages of sleep. Apneas may occur more than 20 times every hour.
  
  A person with OSA never feels rested because they never have normal sleep. The lack of sleep affects daytime alertness and one’s ability to function well throughout the day. The low oxygen levels associated with OSA and the effort required to breathe during the night, put strain on the cardiovascular system. Ultimately, OSA takes its toll on the individual’s quality of life.

• What are the Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?
• Snoring
• Daytime Sleepiness
• High Blood Pressure
• Morning Headaches

• What are the risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea?
• High Blood Pressure
• Heart Disease
• Stroke
• Memory Problems
• Headaches
• Can lead to premature death

Billing Frequently Asked Questions

• Will my insurance pay for a new PAP (Positive Airway Pressure), machine, mask, hose, etc.?
  Most insurance companies and government sponsored programs such a Medicare, will     reimburse for various Pap devices and related equipment, (masks, tubing, etc).  How much they     reimburse will vary from insurance to insurance.  We recommend the patient use an In-Network     Provider in an effort to get the best price and service.  The CPAP Care Center is In-Network for     most health insurance. The CPAP Care Center is happy to assist patients to determine if we are     In-Network for their particular insurance.

• How often can I get PAP supplies?
  It varies depending on the insurance provider but most insurance companies will allow there     patients to get new supplies at least every 6 months.

• I bought my original PAP device from a different equipment company; can I now use the CPAP Care Center?
  If the CPAP Care Center has a current prescription for the supplies you need from your doctor,     then yes, we can sell you supplies.  

• Who do I call if I have additional insurance questions concerning my PAP therapy?
  Please feel free to contact the CRMC CPAP Care Center Billing Contact.  She can be reached at     (256) 737-2605.  She is happy to answer any question you have.