Sleep apnea can be a disruptive and even life-threatening condition. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to a plethora of health complications. When your body doesn’t get enough oxygen during sleep due to repeated airway blockages, it can cause long-term damage. People with untreated sleep apnea are at an increased risk for hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, chronic fatigue and mood disturbances. They’re also at higher risk for more severe outcomes like stroke or sudden cardiac death. Interrupted sleep often leads to daytime sleepiness, which can contribute to accidents on the road or at work, cognitive difficulties, and reduced quality of life.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy offers a lifeline for sleep apnea patients. It delivers a steady stream of air to keep the airway open during sleep. Patients often experience an immediate improvement in sleep quality, daytime alertness, and overall well-being. Over the long term, consistent PAP therapy can reduce many risks of untreated sleep apnea.
The key is not just having the machine but using it consistently. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is one of the most effective treatments for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. However, for the treatment to be successful, CPAP compliance is crucial. But what exactly does CPAP compliance mean, and why is it so important?
Understanding CPAP Compliance
CPAP compliance refers to the consistent and correct use of your CPAP machine. To make the therapy effective, patients must use the device at the prescribed settings every night. Both Medicare and most insurance plans have a compliance standard that patients must meet, especially during the initial phase of treatment.
To be considered compliant, here’s what you should do:
Regular Usage: Use your device for a minimum of 4 hours every night and ensure this happens for at least 70% of the nights every month.
Follow-up: Schedule and attend a follow-up appointment with your doctor between the 31st and 90th day of your treatment. During this visit, your physician will take a look at your CPAP use and ensure you benefit from the therapy.
Quick Tip! Most CPAP problems have solutions! If you’re struggling to use your CPAP machine consistently, communicate any issues to a sleep coach or your medical provider so they can be addressed!
Why Compliance Matters
With consistent use, you’ll avoid the recurrence of sleep apnea symptoms and could also avoid complications with your insurance coverage.
Insurance companies want to make sure you’re using the device and it’s effectively treating your sleep apnea before they’ll pay for the treatment or for additional supplies.
If you don’t meet your plan’s compliance guidelines, you might have to restart the entire process of treating your sleep apnea, or even pay for the device yourself. That means additional doctor’s visits, completing another sleep study, having your doctor prescribe PAP therapy all over again, and additional cost to you.
How Rotech’s SleepWELL™ Program Helps
Understanding and maintaining compliance can seem daunting. This is where Rotech’s SleepWELL™ Program comes into the picture. We guide you every step of the way, working with you and your physician to ensure you’re positioned for success.
State-of-the-Art Technology: With SleepWELL™, you’re assured of cutting-edge technology and equipment. Each CPAP machine from Rotech is equipped with a modem (cellular or Wi-Fi) that meticulously tracks and records your usage. This data can be conveniently downloaded and shared with your doctor, simplifying compliance documentation. Depending on your machine, an app may also be available to see your sleep data and receive instant feedback and coaching.
Customized Support: As a SleepWELL™ patient, you’ll receive tailored support from our specialists. The critical first 90 days of treatment are when most patients need assistance, and that’s when our Clinical Compliance Tracking Team will be most actively involved, monitoring your progress and helping you meet compliance standards.
CPAP compliance is more than a guideline or a bar for you to clear; it ensures effective sleep apnea treatment. With a robust support system like Rotech’s SleepWELL™ Program, you’re equipped with the best tools and a dedicated team ensuring you get the restful night’s sleep you deserve. Consistency is key, and with the right support, healthier sleep is no longer just a dream!