Province Adjusts Approach to Sleep Apnea Services

Released on September 13, 2017

Beginning October 1, 2017, patients requiring continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines will be able to purchase a machine at a discount made available through the Government of Saskatchewan’s bulk purchasing process.

CPAP machines are flow generators used primarily to treat patients suffering from sleep apnea.  A common sleep disorder, sleep apnea causes shallow breaths or pauses in breathing during sleep.

In the 2017-18 provincial budget, government announced it would only provide CPAP coverage for low-income residents receiving Supplementary and Family Health Benefits.

“Following consultation with respirologists and review of processes in other jurisdictions, we’ve determined that the same annual savings could be achieved from an alternate approach,” Health Minister Jim Reiter said.  “This approach will reduce costs for patients and allow better access for those who need it, while still achieving the same savings for the province.”

With the revised approach, patients will not have to pay the full retail price of a CPAP machine, which costs approximately $1,500.  Instead, individuals with moderate to severe sleep apnea will be able to receive a machine on loan at a cost of $275 for the life of the machine.

CPAP machines, supplies and servicing continues to be a fully covered benefit for low-income residents receiving Supplementary and Family Health Benefits.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Shirley Xie
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: shirley.xie@health.gov.sk.ca