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Home » Sleep Disorder Centre » Sleep Disorder Equipment FAQ

Sleep Disorder Equipment FAQ

What is a CPAP machine?

CPAP therapy is a common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. A CPAP machine uses a hose and mask, or nosepiece, to deliver constant and steady air pressure. Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder where an individual has one or more pauses in breathing or shallow breaths while they sleep.

What is covered / not covered for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy equipment and supplies?

Adults who require initial CPAP Therapy will:

  • Have been prescribed CPAP therapy by a physician at the WRHA Sleep Disorders Centre
  • Pay $500 toward the purchase of CPAP machine. The remainder of the cost of the machine, supplies and service fees will be paid by the WRHA.
  • Be responsible for the cost of supplies related to their therapy.
  • Be responsible for repairs to the CPAP machine. The useful life of a machine has been defined as five years. You can continue to use the machine beyond five years, but if it requires repair or replacement, you will be responsible for the cost. To minimize repairs, we encourage all clients to clean and maintain the equipment and supplies as recommended by the manufacturer.
  • Be eligible for machine replacement (excluding mask) every five years. The $500 individual payment will be required for anticipated replacements. The timing is determined from the WRHA record of the purchase date of your existing machine.

Children's sleep therapy services remain unchanged.

Services provided by the Sleep Disorder Centre (SDC) Program regarding diagnosis and provision of therapy for your sleep breathing disorder, including patient assessments and ongoing clinical support also remain unchanged.

Bi-level therapy is funded by the WRHA. Bi-level therapy is used to treat breathing disorders that are severe and not restricted to obstructive sleep apnea Such as neuromuscular disorders that involve respiratory muscles that can affect breathing.
What does my payment cover?
Your initial payment includes the new CPAP machine and the following supplies:

  • Mask/ Interface (nasal, full-face or direct)
  • Filters for your equipment
  • Tubing

The CPAP machine becomes your property after payment is received. You are responsible to pay for additional or replacement supplies as well as delivery charges.

What does the WRHA cover?

The remaining balance for the CPAP machine, mask and service fees including:

  • The administration fee for the initial equipment purchase
  • 60 minute consultation fee with the client's vendor of choice
  • Mask fitting
  • Education regarding equipment use and care
  • Follow-up appointments for treatment issues
  • Auto-titration trial fee (if required to determine fixed pressure setting)

What happens if I am put on a trial of the CPAP machine?

The WRHA will fund service fees during the trial period to ensure that the CPAP treatment is beneficial to you. After this period is over, you are responsible for the $500 payment in order to purchase the CPAP machine.

Where do I pay for my machine?

You must receive the CPAP machine through one of the WRHA contracted vendors – Medigas or VitalAire. The $500 payment will be made directly to the vendor of the equipment. You will make arrangements directly with the vendor for payment. The vendor will work with WRHA to receive the remainder of the payment.

Do I need to make the $500 payment before I receive the CPAP machine?

Yes, payment will be required before the permanent CPAP machine is provided.

Is the $500 initial payment for equipment refundable if I decide I no longer require the CPAP machine?

No, the payment is not refundable. You own the CPAP machine once you have made the payment.

What happens if I am unable to cover the cost of the equipment or supplies for the machine?

Individuals who receive health-care funding through Employment and Income Assistance (EIA), First Nations and Inuit Health branch, Veterans Affairs Canada, Workers' Compensation Board, or private health insurance may have coverage for a CPAP machine.

The WRHA recognizes there may be individuals who do not have other sources of income, who cannot afford the equipment and who may have exceptional circumstances for consideration.

Should you wish to be considered for exceptional circumstances, please call 1-866-281-0410.

This is a confidential voicemail for CPAP exceptional circumstances enquiries only. You will be asked to leave your name, phone number, date of birth and brief reason for the request. You will receive a return phone call within five business days.

For more information, or to discuss your current CPAP therapy services, please contact the Sleep Disorder Centre at 204-788-8570 or see https://misericordia.mb.ca/programs/acute-care/sleep-disorder-centre/

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