Navigating the field of insurance with CPAP
If you are new to CPAP therapy or if you've had the benefit of using the Manitoba provincial program until several months ago, you may not know the different payment options for CPAP equipment and supplies. CPAP machines cost anywhere between $500 to $2000. Every year it is important for your health and use of the machine to replace your supplies which can cost $150 to $250. Medigas MB works with all of our patients to help them meet these costs.
Although there are different methods of coverage, today, we will be discussing insurance. Now since there are so many different insurance companies, I will not be going into them all. There are some good guidelines and instructions that apply to most.
First, pre-approvals are the best place to start. Your insurance company may have a separate form for these, or the same with a check box. Pre-approval ensures you and us of your specific coverage. It is also at this time that we can determine if you are eligible for assignment of benefits. This is a feature that most insurance companies offer that allows Medigas to bill the company directly, reducing or eliminating the out-of-pocket cost to you!
You'll need a few things for your insurance submissions. First, a copy of a recent prescription, this can either be from your sleep doctor if it was recent enough, or your family doctor can write a prescription with your diagnosis and need for ongoing supplies. You will need to fill out the Medigas Assignment of Benefits form, as well as your insurance provider's form. Depending on your insurance company, you may need a copy of your sleep study or a download from your machine.
At Medigas we have dedicated individuals that will help you with this process and determining how your plan can help you with your CPAP therapy to the fullest extent. Some plans offer new masks every 6 months!
Remember, insurance is just one way to make CPAP therapy easier. Talk to Medigas for your individual plan. Stay tuned for a huge announcement on payment plans!