Getting Started
Steps to Take Before Your Home Sleep Test
Before you can take a home sleep test (HST) a few steps must be taken to ensure you are a good candidate. The diagnostic devices used in the home are intended to only identify Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). There are over 80 other sleep disorders, and many of these other disorders require a facility-based sleep study (PSG) for diagnosis. The presence of certain health factors or indication of other sleep disorders may prohibit the use of an HST. Individuals at high risk for OSA, the most common form of sleep apnea, are generally good candidates for unattended home testing.
If you think you might have sleep apnea, contact Oxygen One to assess your risk or call your healthcare provider for an appointment to discuss sleep apnea.
A home sleep testing device requires a valid prescription to administer; therefore, you will need to visit your doctor before an HST can be performed. Bring this blank prescription form to your doctor’s appointment. If you and your doctor decide that an HST is appropriate, ask him or her to fill out the prescription form and fax or mail it to Oxygen One. After receiving a signed prescription from your doctor, an Oxygen One representative will contact you to complete a comprehensive sleep evaluation and health history.
Your Test
Oxygen One will provide thorough instruction on the testing device and answer any questions you might have.
While Oxygen One uses several different devices depending on your specific needs, in general, home sleep tests measure several channels that, in combination, will aid in diagnosis.
HSTs may measure:
- Blood-oxygen levels
- Pulse rate
- Airflow
- Snoring
- Body position
- Chest effort
The test must be completed and returned to Oxygen One within three days. One of the benefits of an HST is the ability and freedom to prepare for bed as you normally would and sleep in the comfort of your own home, while still obtaining an accurate result. As a general principle, you should follow a normal routine, including medications and bedtime. We recommend you limit your caffeine intake the day of your study.
The Results
After you return the device to Oxygen One, a registered polysomnographic technician (RPSGT) will score the study and one of our board-certified sleep physicians will review and interpret the results. A copy of the study will be faxed to your ordering physician, who may want to meet with you regarding the test. Oxygen One will be in contact shortly after receiving the test results to review the study and discuss possible treatment options as appropriate.
After a positive diagnosis, many of our patients with OSA choose to begin Positive Airway Pressure Therapy. As an alternative to going to the sleep lab, Oxygen One provides home titrating devices that determine the correct pressure to maintain an open airway. A clinician will spend 90 minutes with you to explain PAP therapy, find the right mask for you, and help you acclimate to the therapy.
Payment
As a service to you, Oxygen One will provide a complimentary financial consultation to help you find the best option for you to be tested and treated. Oxygen One can bill your insurance, as well as provide affordable self-payment options. Please contact Oxygen One for more information.