modern cpap machines cost less than you might think!
The Cost of A CPAP Machine
Whether you’ve already scheduled a sleep study or your partner has just recently convinced you of your sleep issue, one question is likely on your mind—how much is this CPAP machine going to cost me?
According to your loyal sidekick Google, you may have discovered that you’ll likely need a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure machine. And, you’ve also learned that all the cool kids call it a CPAP machine.
So chances are, there’s a new question spinning around in your mind—how much does a CPAP machine cost?”
The simple answer is that a sleep apnea machine will cost you less than a lifetime of trying to buy forgiveness for your incessant snoring and gasping during the night.
No, I haven’t been chatting with your other half. I was actually the snoring partner!
Here’s a bit of information I’ve learned about sleep apnea, CPAP machines, and keeping your wallet (and partners) happy.
If you’re ready to get a great term insurance rate and a better understanding of elements impacting your rate, reach out today either by phone at 650-969-5844 or by email.
Why You May Need a Sleep Apnea Machine
Snoring, gasping for breath, and fatigue are probably commonplace for you at this point. But, a CPAP machine could change all of that.
Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep issues, impacting millions of people all over the world. Some of the most affected individuals are military personnel (active or inactive), trauma survivors, and those carrying around a few extra pounds.
To be diagnosed with sleep apnea, you’ll need to undergo a sleep study to determine the severity of your breathing issues. Typical sleep study results guide a patient to the needed prescription for their condition.
If you’re a snore-aholic, rivaling Zeus’ thunder, then your prescription will most likely be a CPAP machine.
A CPAP or sleep apnea machine delivers constant and steady air pressure, using a hose and a nosepiece. It helps prevent your airways from collapsing so that you can breathe uninterrupted.
If you’re like many people, you may be picturing a Darth Vader-type mask. However, a CPAP mask is slightly less villainous-looking, faltering on the harmless side of life.
So, How Much Does a CPAP Machine Cost?
Although your healthcare provider will likely prescribe or suggest a specific type of CPAP machine, it never hurts to know what’s available. Especially when you’re probably asking, “how much does a CPAP machine cost anyway?”
The CPAP Device Is Your Foundation
To build the most effective and comfortable sleep apnea machine, you’ll need to know all the parts of this package.
Firstly, you need the workhorse—the device. It’s what actually produces continuous positive airway pressure.
How much does a CPAP machine cost, you ask? Coming in all shapes, sizes, and options (including travel size and customized colors), the device typically starts at about $300 and can run to $3,000 without medical insurance reimbursement.
Building upon your device, you’ll need to choose the best mask option for you. With three main types from which to choose, the mask is how the device connects to your airways.
1. Nasal CPAP Mask
The perfect choice for restless sleepers who prefer a more natural airflow, a nasal CPAP mask covers only your nose area (from the bridge of your nose to your upper lip).
Because there are so many varieties, styles, and fits, this is a very popular choice for sleep apnea sufferers. Plus, it works with most facial hair and is great for side sleepers.
The nasal CPAP mask isn’t the best choice if you are a mouth breather. Also, it will be difficult to use if you have a medical issue involving your nose such as a narrowed or collapsed nasal valve, enlarged turbinates, or a deviated septum.
So, how much does a CPAP machine cost? The price of a nasal CPAP mask ranges from $50 to $150. This includes the actual gear used on your head.
2. Nasal Pillows
Popular with people who frequently experience claustrophobia, nasal pillows function great if you want a lightweight and compact option. Or, if you’ve opted to let No-Shave November extend throughout your entire year and have a lot of facial hair, nasal pillows may be your gig.
Unlike a typical mask, a nasal pillow creates a seal at your nostril, directing pressurized air into your nose.
For obvious reasons, mouth breathers don’t benefit from nasal pillows. Also, if you need higher pressure, a nasal pillow isn’t your best option.
Often sold as a frame system, this type typically falls between $40 and $110. However, you can buy the nasal cushions and hoses separately, each starting at around $10 on average.
3. Full Face CPAP Mask
Covering both your mouth and nose, the full-face CPAP mask is perfect for you if you breathe through your mouth or sleep on your back. Also, it provides the most airway pressure as it covers such a large surface area.
Strangely enough, many people who struggle with claustrophobia opt for this mask simply because it only touches the sides of your face on two areas.
As you may have guessed, this type is the most expensive as it does require more material than the others. To answer your pressing “how much does a CPAP machine cost” question, this particular mask usually falls between $60 and $200.
Remember, with each option or style comes a unique set of parts that will need replacing every now and then.
What You Need to Know About Replacement Parts for cPAP machines
As with any other device, there will be bits and pieces of your sleep apnea machine that wear out or simply need to be replaced for sanitary reasons. Thankfully, replacing these parts isn’t difficult.
For example, most machines include:
- Headgear or chin straps
- Mask
- Mask cushion
- Cushion clips
- Humidifier water chamber
- Short tube assembly
- Various tubing or hoses
Once you find the right style for you, getting to know all the parts of your machine tends to come naturally. Just remember to replace the individual parts regularly according to the manual.
Does Insurance Cover CPAP?
In this day and age, CPAP machine providers are plentiful both online as well as in brick and mortar stores. Most people opt for online shopping but this, of course, declines you the opportunity to try on the gear. Though some providers do allow for a trial period.
Keep in mind that to have your CPAP machine covered by your health insurance, it’s vital to get a prescription. If you simply purchase a CPAP machine based on a hunch, you’ll have little luck getting insurance to help you pay for it.
Don’t be afraid to ask right up front, “how much does a CPAP machine cost” whether you have health insurance or not.
If you don’t have health insurance, most providers offer payment plans. After all, the cost sans insurance can equal a pretty penny.
Also, depending on which CPAP machine provider you choose, they’ll either be in-network or out-of-network as each insurance company has its own contracted Durable Medical Equipment (DME) providers, so check your plan for the specific provider in your area.
Most online DME providers are out-of-network
you’ll need to weigh their convenience vs out-of-pocket cost when considering how much a CPAP machines costs
If you’re looking online for your own DME provider for CPAP supplies, keep in mind that most of them are considered out-of-network. If you buy your supplies from them, you will need to submit your own claims to your medical plan manually for claim credit. You’ll need to accumulate a TON of non-network claims before you receive a red cent from insurance, especially after the higher ACA(Affordable Care Act) limits, which increase annually.
Our friends over at Sleep Restfully have written a very comprehensive guide as well where you can see exact prices and buy equipment as well. You can read more here.
Take the Next Step
Getting the medical attention and equipment you need is critical for you to have a quality life as well as optimal life insurance protection. Winning top-notch rates means taking care of yourself the best way you can.
Here at CB Acker Associates, we want to help you do just that. If you’re tired of getting the run-around or are sick of not having your questions answered, contact us. We can help!
To get you started, please check out my easy-to-read Buyer’s Resource Guide. It will help you make sense of the most complicated factors of sleep apnea and life insurance. [email protected]