The cost to you of sleep apnea treatment depends on many things, including the treatment option prescribed and if you have insurance, what the balance from your insurance provider is.
Costs are variable, but here are some guides
Here in Canada where treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea are only sometimes Government covered (Some like Ontario cover CPAP, some like British Columbia cover nothing except tests.
In the US diagnostics may start at about US$1,000, and dental devices often start at about US$1,800 or so. Surgical intervention can cost upwards of US$10,000 in the US while here in Canada it may be covered. Some dental offices may accept “assignment of patient’s insurances” while others may not due to the patient being responsible for his or her coverage. Some dental offices may work with financing companies specializing in healthcare finance.
Almost everyone agrees that Obstructive Sleep Apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and other serious health issues, making prompt treatment a very wise investment in your health. Despite the large number of people affected (up to 1 in 4 adults) diagnosis remains incredibly low at less than 10% due in part to a lack of medical education provided medical students.
Sleep Study Cost
Often, the first step in diagnosing OSA is an overnight sleep study done at home (Home Sleep test – HST) or sometimes an in-office polysomnogram (PSG) performed in a specialist’s sleep centre. The cost of an HST is around CAN$60-75 and is normally considered a “loss leader” by the CPAP provider. In Canada Physicians will usually refer directly to a commercial company for care. The price of an in-office study typically ranges between $1,000 and $3,000, though the total cost will depend on where you undergo the study. In Canada this is usually covered by the Government. Some Medical Sleep Centres have additional facility and consultation fees and many provide CPAP themselves despite the potential conflict of interest.
Many US insurance providers will cover a polysomnogram.
Shocking Statistics for Diagnosis
In the UK, sleep testing is difficult to access. It has been estimated that to test those who have OSA today (not including those who have yet to develop it) would take 10-20 years in Canada at present rates, in the UK potentially 20X as long given current rates (certainly over a century!) This is a poor reflection on awareness, screening and testing for the 5.4 Million Canadians, 4.5 Million British and 22 Million Americans who are at high risk.
Treatment Options
There are a few different methods of treating sleep apnea, and each carries specific costs, about which you should always ask:
CPAP
One of the most common methods of treating sleep apnea involves using a mask/hose/pump or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device. This machine consists of a mask that delivers a steady stream of air during sleep to keep airways open and can cost in a range between CAN$ 2,500-7000. CPAP requires periodic maintenance and replacement parts. Some health insurers will cover the cost of these devices if it is deemed medically necessary, though additional replacement costs may not be included.
Surgical Treatment
Surgical intervention, which is often used to reduce or tighten excess tissue as well as jaw repositioning, may cost between CAN$ 8,000 – $25,000 or more for some of the emerging technologies. The price of surgery is also affected by hospital fees and insurance coverage.
Oral Appliance
An oral appliance can cost between US$1,800 and $2,000, and many insurance plans (if available) contribute to the cost. The costs in Canada and UK are similarly less by about 5-10%.
