Does the VA Cover CPAPs?

Sleep apnea affects millions of Americans, many veterans among them. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, or CPAP, is a mask worn during sleep that forces the airway open. It's the most common treatment for sleep apnea. The Veterans Health Administration, commonly referred to as the VA, will cover CPAP machines as long as you meet certain criteria.

Diagnosis

• If you're a veteran experiencing sleep apnea symptoms, the first step is to contact the VA and set up a doctor's appointment. Your doctor will refer you to a sleep lab, if necessary, where a sleep study will be completed. The sleep study will determine whether or not you have sleep apnea.

Treatment

• Once you're diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor will provide a prescription for a CPAP machine. This prescription should go to a home medical equipment provider approved by the VA; otherwise, the CPAP machine won't be covered.

Insurance

• There may be copays, coinsurance or deductibles that need to be met before your CPAP machine is covered. Let the provider know if you have any additional insurance, like Medicare, to keep your costs as low as possible.