Patient Care Process

Patient Care Process – Sleep Apnea

1. 1. 1. Diagnosis. The diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea can only be diagnosed by a polysomnographic study (an overnight sleep study, conducted in a sleep lab) or by a home sleep test. Both types of sleep studies must be interpreted by a qualified sleep physician. Depending on the diagnosis, and the degree of your obstructive sleep apnea, the sleep physician will then determine the most effective line of treatment. If your sleep physician agrees that you are a candidate for oral appliance therapy, VSTT will schedule you for a sleep consultation appointment.
      2. Insurance. Virginia Sleep & TMJ Therapy is a participating provider for most major insurance companies. Sleep related breathing disorders are medical diagnoses, and services are filed to medical insurance companies. We take care of the insurance process for our patients. Prior to your consultation (first appointment), VSTT verifies coverage and reimbursement amounts for the oral appliance. For the portion of the cost that may not be covered by your insurance plan, VSTT offers several attractive financing options.
      3. Consultation. Your first appointment will include a consultation with one of our doctors. The doctor will review the sleep physician’s recommendations including the result of your sleep test, and explain how the oral appliance works and the results you can expect. They will also conduct a thorough oral and airway evaluation. If your doctor agrees that you are a good candidate for oral appliance therapy, we will do a joint vibration analysis and a bite registration. We will then take impressions of your teeth that are used to custom-make the oral appliance.
      4. Communication with your physician. Throughout the entire treatment process, your doctor will remain in close communication with the physician who diagnosed or referred you to VSTT. They will share information, gain input and keep your physician informed of your progress.