Q. Will my insurance cover sleep services?
A.  Sleep disorders are covered like other medical conditions. If your insurance company covers your visits to other doctors, and testing, they probably will cover these services as well. Our office provides the codes we bill, so you can check in advance with your insurance company.

Q. What can I expect for the initial appointment?
A.  The practitioner will take a complete history, do a directed physical exam, look over your questionnaire, and make recommendations to you. In addition, you will have education about your sleep disorder. If the practitioner feels overnight testing would help confirm the diagnosis, this will be arranged and explained to you. This would occur at another time, in one of our testing facilities in 7 locations, whichever is geographically most convenient for you. This would involve an overnight stay, generally at 8:45pm, unless you are a day sleeper, in which case it would occur at the time you normally sleep.

Q. My health care provider thinks I should be evaluated but I think I sleep fine. Should I schedule an appointment?
A.  If you or a bed partner notice some of the above symptoms, or you feel sleepy or unrefreshed after sleep, we recommend you call for an appointment.  Our specialists will be happy to review your symptoms to determine the type of help you may need.

Q. My bed partner says I snore and stop breathing, should I be concerned?
A.  Snoring may indicate the presence of a life-threatening sleep disorder called sleep apnea. 95% of those with sleep apnea are unaware that they have a serious disorder. A sleep specialist should be consulted.


Q. I have felt like this my whole life-I don't think I'm sleepy.
A.  Most people don't know they are sleepy. Researchers have asked thousands of people over the years if they're sleepy, only to be told no . . .just before the individuals fell asleep. Don't take the risk of this occurring while driving, during work or dangerous activities. You can fall asleep anywhere, without notice.

Q. I can learn to "get by" on 5 or 6 hours of sleep.
A.  The sleep need is biological. You can teach yourself to sleep less, but not to need less sleep. Your brain and body are actively working during sleep to prepare you for functioning the next day.


Q. Will my sleep disorder go away without treatment?
A.  Sleep disorders will not go away without treatment. Treatment may be behavioral, pharmacological, surgical, or mechanical. Life style changes may be helpful as well. Untreated sleep disorders may result in worsening quality of life, school and work performance, increased risk for serious health problems, and may lead to accidents and death.


Q. How do I schedule an appointment?
A.  Our office would be happy to assist you with scheduling by calling us at (231) 935-9275 or 800-305-1883. Plan on spending approximately one hour with us at the initial appointment.