Oct 27th 2022
Can I Get a CPAP Prescription Online?
If you suffer from sleep apnea, you know what a lifesaver a CPAP machine can be for your physical and mental health. While there are numerous websites that sell CPAP machines, buying one online isn’t as easy as ordering an alarm clock.
One of the most frequent questions we get is, “Can I get a CPAP prescription online?” The answer isn’t as simple as yes or no, however, the short answer is “yes, but.”
Let’s explore what that means.
Why Can’t I Get a CPAP Machine Without a Prescription?
Federal law requires a medical prescription to buy a CPAP machine — whether online or in person. Getting a prescription requires a board-certified physician to write one. And the doctor must follow a set of protocols, including having you take a home sleep study, in order to justify giving you a prescription to treat your sleep apnea.
While it is possible to converse back and forth with your medical provider about your sleep apnea condition (especially since telehealth appointments are becoming increasingly common), individuals can’t simply go online, click a few buttons, and acquire a prescription. The process requires a doctor’s personal evaluation of your physical condition and symptoms, followed by a verifiable sleep test.
CPAP machines are considered a safe and highly effective treatment for sleep apnea symptoms. A prescription is required because the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) classifies CPAP machines as Class II medical devices, which is a category of equipment that can possibly be abused or misused. The regulations are designed to ensure the safety of patients.
Also, PAP units come with different functions — CPAP, BiPAP, and APAP machines — each of which requires specific pressure settings to ensure effective treatment. A doctor’s guidance is essential for safe and effective sleep therapy.
Finding a Sleep Doctor Online
You can find a sleep doctor — also called a sleep specialist or somnologist — online rather easily. Simply enter “sleep doctor” into the search bar and the search engine should give you local results.
It’s important to keep in mind, however, that if you have a health insurance policy, you’ll need to work through your provider to find a sleep doctor that’s covered by your health insurance. While it’s possible to pay out of pocket for treating a sleep disorder, the costs can add up quickly. It’s almost always best to coordinate your sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment through your health insurance company. Unless you can self-refer, it’s usually best to start the process with your regular doctor.
In addition, your health insurance company (including Medicare and Medicaid, by the way) may also cover all or part of the cost of your CPAP machine. It’s always best to check with your provider first before buying any equipment or supplies.
How to Get a CPAP Prescription Online
In short, it is illegal for any company or healthcare organization to sell you a CPAP machine without a prescription. It is also unlawful to obtain a prescription without a doctor’s official approval.
However, you can get a CPAP prescription through an online process that involves working directly with your physician and medical provider. Some sleep therapy websites offer consultation with certified doctors and send sleep test equipment through the mail, giving patients the option of doing all or most of their sleep apnea treatment online.
At GoCPAP.com, we carry an extensive collection of CPAP machines, masks, and other supplies. With your prescription in hand — or online — make GoCPAP.com your first stop for the best prices and selection of CPAP equipment. We’re always ready to help you get the essential sleep therapy you need.
At GoCPAP.com, we carry an extensive collection of CPAP machines, masks, and other supplies.
With your prescription in hand — or online — make GoCPAP.com your first stop for the best prices and selection of CPAP equipment. We’re always ready to help you get the essential sleep therapy you need.
