Switching sleep centers?

[steve215]

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[Julie]

I think you'd have to contact the places themselves to ask about this - first the one you're with, and then the new one. Wouldn't it be a question of your doctor's referring you (to the new one)? Is this an insurance or HMO question Americans face (I'm Canadian)?

[kaiasgram]

Hi!

I would like to switch to a different sleep center/hospital but not sure how to do so?

Would I have to start all over again by getting a sleep study?

Did anyone ever do this before?

Thanks!

Steve, are you asking about finding a new DME provider (for equipment, supplies) or finding a new sleep doctor? If you're using insurance, call the insurance company and find out what other doctors or DME suppliers they are contracted with. If you're paying out of pocket then you can go anywhere you want to.

And yes, switching happens all the time. If you've had a recent sleep study there should be no reason for a new sleep study just because you've switched doctors or DME supplier. If you doubt the results of your first sleep study or your therapy is not going well, then there might be a valid reason for a new study, but otherwise I would just ask the doc you're thinking of switching to if s/he will accept your recent study results and current PAP prescription.

[steve215]

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[kaiasgram]

I feel that since sleep apnea is a life long thing, why not have the best treatment?
When I first began on this journey, I just picked a random sleep center because I didn't really care about it..But now I feel like sleep apnea is a serious medical problem and thus why I would like to switch to a more well known place for my sleep medicine.

Agree completely -- if you feel you'll get better care with another doc then do make the switch. Hopefully your insurance will cover the services of the doc/hospital you want to work with. We're here to help along the way too.

[bwexler]

Hi Steve.
You have not told us where you are or exactly what you mean by "sleep medicine".
Do have insurance or pay cash.
If you are using XPAP equipment please fill in your profile make and model of each device.
If you are referring to prescription meds, let us know what they are.

With tis information you will get more accurate answers to your, questions.

[BlackSpinner]

If you are doing fine, felling better and you data looks good, why do you need a new sleep doctor? All they are going to do is ask the same question and tell you to keep doing what you are doing. You are responsible for your own therapy.

[chunkyfrog]

Many of us don't really need a "sleep doctor", except to fill out the paperwork so insurance or Medicare will pay for our supplies.
If your situation is complex, and you feel your treatment could be better, then go for it, especially if your cost is not out of line.