FAQS

(For FAQS on sleep disorders see Sleep Disorders)

Q. Do I need a physician referral for a sleep evaluation?
A. Physician referrals are rarely necessary for evaluation with self referrals typically being covered by insurance. However, some insurances do require a referral. To ensure compliance with your insurance plan, please contact your insurance company.

Q. What insurances do you accept?
A. We accept most insurance. Patients should bring their insurance cards to appointments and be prepared to pay co-pays at the time of visit. For further information, please check with your insurance company or contact our Billing/Insurance Department.

Q. Does my insurance cover all of this?
A. The office visit is covered just like any other physician visit. Normally it is just your office co-pay per visit.

Sleep studies are billed by the hospital that performs the studies. These are covered as an outpatient service. To see what your plan covers, please refer to the Outpatient Benefit section of your insurance plan.

CPAP equipment is covered under durable medical equipment. Payment on this varies with each insurance plan. Please refer to the Durable Medical Equipment section of your insurance plan.

Q. What other types of payment options are available?
A. We do accept cash or check.

Q. Where are your offices located?
A. Please see locations listing.

Q. Can I get some assistance with filing my insurance claims?
A. We will assist you as much as possible. To expedite the process and to avoid confusion, patients should read their policy book or contact their insurance company to verify benefits and coverage. Alabama Sleep Clinic will file claims as a courtesy to our patients.

Q. What can I expect on my first visit?
A. As a new patient you will be registered when you arrive for your appointment. You will be asked to provide insurance and medical history information (see Scheduling an Appointment).

Q. What is the expected waiting time?
A. Everyone’s time is valuable and our staff makes every effort to minimize waiting time while providing the highest quality care. In the event of an unforeseen delay or emergency you will be notified and given the opportunity to reschedule. It is our policy to neither rush nor compromise care. Please be patient as you will receive the same consideration.

Q. What does a basic sleep study consist of?
A. A typical sleep study involves spending the night at a testing facility in order to evaluate changes in the body’s physiology during sleep. Monitoring of brain waves, heart activity, air flow, oxygen levels and muscle activity are some of the more important parameters measured. For the most part adhesive pads are used although other monitoring mechanisms are employed. The study will be performed overnight unless your physician recommends it take place in the day. The test rooms are private and most often have their own bathrooms.

Some studies consist of taking a series of naps or trying to stay awake in the day. If this type of study is recommended by your sleep doctor you may ask them about any details.

Q. At which hospitals do you schedule sleep studies?
A. We schedule sleep studies at the following locations:

Crestwood Medical Center
Decatur General Hospital
Huntsville Hospital
Huntsville Hospital (Madison location)

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