Sleep studies, also known as polysomnography tests or PSG, are medical tests used to diagnose sleep disorders such as insomnia, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy. In Australia, the cost of a sleep study can vary greatly depending on the type of procedure being performed and the facility providing it. Generally speaking, the price of a sleep study in Australia ranges from around $1500 to $3000.
Sometimes, it can be higher depending on the complexity and type of equipment used. It is important to note that the cost of a sleep study may also be covered under some health insurance policies, depending on the individual’s level of coverage. It is always best to check with the insurance company before going ahead with a sleep study to determine the available range.
The cost of a sleep study in Australia also depends on the testing type and complexity. A basic overnight PSG, usually conducted in a hospital or sleep clinic, typically takes 8-10 hours to complete and can cost anywhere from $1500 to $2500. More complex tests, such as Multiple Sleep Latency Tests (MSLTs) and Maintenance of Wakefulness Tests (MWTs), can cost up to $3000. It is also important to note that if a patient requires more than one night of testing, the cost can increase accordingly.
This article will explain sleep study, why you need to do it, and what could go wrong. So, without further ado, let’s begin.
What is a Sleep Study
Polysomnography, or a sleep study, is an analysis used to evaluate the rest patterns of people experiencing snoring. This technique can be utilized to investigate and assess numerous sleeping disorders like apnea, narcolepsy, insomnia, REM sleep disorder, and restless legs syndrome. Even though you can analyze many of these conditions with a regular appointment at the doctor’s office – some experts encourage further assessment that only a polysomnography test can offer.
To gain insight into your body and brain’s activities while you sleep, consider undergoing a non-invasive nighttime evaluation called a sleep study. During this medical assessment, you will be connected to an EEG monitor via wires after checking in at the center for an overnight stay.
To ensure a good night’s sleep, the investigation is conducted in an environment of relaxation. Data will be monitored and sent to the technician via sensors or electrodes attached to your body while you rest. The technologist then submits this information for review by a board-certified sleep physician within two weeks of collecting it.
Snoring is a global dilemma, and sleep studies are on the rise in Australia. This specific form of diagnosis and treatment has been giving snorers much-needed relief. If your doctor advises you to undergo a sleep study, research its cost ahead of time so that you can financially prepare yourself accordingly.
Sleep studies in Australia come with a hefty price tag of around $500. Of course, this can depend on countless factors, such as which sleep center you’re visiting and what conditions are being evaluated during the study. Fortunately, Medicare may reimburse some expenses—but don’t forget to look into your secondary insurance too! It’s important to note that at-home and in-center tests qualify for coverage from Medicare, so if you have one scheduled soon, check whether it will be covered before splurging out of pocket.
Why do Australians Need a Sleep Study?
As the number of sleep centers offering overnight sleep tests approved to those in Australia continues to rise, it is a testament to how great this opportunity is. Nevertheless, it should also be taken as an indication that there must be an increasingly high demand for these services if suppliers continue to expand rapidly.
With a surging number of individuals facing sleeping or snoring difficulties, sleep studies have become an increasingly sought-after solution in Australia. This process is one of the most effective approaches to tackle these afflictions and ensure appropriate diagnostic measures and therapy plans are followed for maximum results.
Based on research conducted by YouGov, an alarming 1 in 3 Australians needs to receive the recommended 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Interestingly, while this amount has been proven necessary for adults to perform optimally during their day ahead, Australia’s average bedtime is only 4-6 hours.
A staggering 10% of people who only sleep for 4-6 hours take more than an hour to fall into a deep sleep, and it’s not just about falling asleep; staying asleep throughout the night is equally important. Unbelievably, only one in seven Australians can do this without any disruptions! The overall quality of your slumber will be adversely affected if there are frequent disturbances during the night.
The figures above demonstrate a need for sleep studies – snoring is also a big issue in Australia. Individuals who suffer from loud snoring or those with family members that experience it often voice their displeasure about it. Dr. Terry Sands, a Sleep expert based in Illawarra for 25 years, affirms that this type of obnoxious noise indicates Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which is deemed to be a significant medical problem.
Unfortunately, those with sleep apnea can face serious health consequences if undiagnosed. Studies have shown that approximately one in ten Australians unknowingly struggle with the condition, and the risk is even greater amongst men aged 40-69! Moreover, as they age, the chances of experiencing related ailments such as stroke, type 2 diabetes, or high blood pressure increase exponentially.
The Common Issues You Might Be Suffering From
If your doctor had suggested a sleep study, it could have identified more severe health issues like obstructive sleep apnea. Testing will be necessary to rule out any other respiratory complications related to this disorder.
If you are having trouble sleeping, a sleep study may be necessary to determine the cause of your symptoms. Sleep studies can detect many disorders, such as REM sleep behavior disorder, insomnia, restless leg syndrome, sleepwalking, narcolepsy, and periodic limb movement disorder. A comprehensive examination will provide insight into your brain and body activity while you sleep, which is essential in making an accurate diagnosis.
As expressed previously, various elements can influence the expense of this procedure. Discuss pricing with your sleep specialist or local sleep center if you require a sleep study. To save money, inquire about any insurance coverage that may be available as well.
