Frequently Asked Questions


Diagnostic Division

Q: How long do I have to stay at the laboratory for an overnight polysomnography?
A: Generally, you need to be at the laboratory around 9 p.m. You can leave fas early as 6.30 a.m the next morning.

Q: Do I have to share my room or bathroom with other patients at your laboratory?
A: No. All our rooms are private, with a private bathroom and shower.

Q: Are sleep tests invasive?
A: The overnight PSG is a non-invasive test. A special water‑soluble paste is used to attach the electrodes to your scalp. All other sensors are simply attached with hypoallergenic tape.

Q: Why does OSR Médical recommend a laboratory PSG rather than one at home?
A: The American

Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) considers a PSG in a specialized sleep laboratory the best practice for diagnosing and treating most sleep disorders. The lab is esspecially designed for such tests. Due to the complexity of most sleep disorders, making the right diagnosis requires highly specialized equipment. Moreover, with a full report on these tests, your attending physician will be able to determine which treatment is best for your condition. A qualified technician will be present all night long to ensure that the tests go smoothly and that you are comfortable. If a sensor comes off or stops working during the test, the technician will be able to reattach it and make sure it is working properly. Moreover, you will have all the assistance you require throughout your night. The rooms/laboratories at OSR Médical are designed to promote sleep. Therapeutic Division
Q: What will happen if I decide not to have my sleep apnea disorder treated?
A: When not treated, sleep apnea can have negative long-term effects. In addition to affecting your quality of life, it can lead to serious medical problems such as cardiac arrhythmia, strokes, hypertension and even myocardial infarctions.

Q: Is the positive airway pressure (PAP) machine the only medical treatment for sleep apnea?
A: There are three known treatments for sleep apnea: surgery, oral appliances and PAP treatment. PAP treatment has proven to be the most effective in adults. For children, surgery is the obvious solution.

Q: Do I have to use my positive airway pressure (PAP) machine every night and all night?
A: Follow your physician’s instructions. Generally, to get the most from your treatment, it is recommended to use the PAP machine during naps as well as at night.

Q: Does a PAP machine make a lot of noise?
A: No. The noisiest part of PAP treatment is the noise you make breathing in the mask. The machine itself does not make much noise.

Q: Which is the best mask currently on the market?
A: There is no such thing as the “best” mask. The “best” mask for you will depend on your medical condition, the shape of your face, and your specific needs and you will only know for sure once you have tried it at home. Feel free to ask questions or talk to our therapists who will do their best to answer all your questions.

Q: My mask leaks and is very uncomfortable. What can I do?
A: It is suggested that you adjust the straps of your mask while lying on your back. Finding the right fit (one that is both comfortable and snug) will ensure optimal treatment.

Q: How often should I clean my PAP machine and mask?
A: All the equipment should be cleaned on a regular basis—generally, once a week. When you buy or rent your machine, your therapist will tell you how to take proper care of your machine or mask. You can also consult our guides.

Q: When I travel, can I bring my PAP machine with me?
A: When travelling by air, always keep your PAP machine with you as a second piece of carry-on luggage. Do not check it. It is advisable to have a copy of your PAP prescription with you when going through customs. You can even bring your machine with you when you go camping and plug it into a portable battery like a power pack.

Services offered by OSR Médical

Q: Do I need a prescription for a sleep study or to buy a PAP machine?
Yes. As for all medical services, a prescription is required for sleep studies or to purchase medical equipment.

Q: Do I need a prescription to have my sleep evaluated?
A: No. This service is covered by the RAMQ (Régime d’assurance maladie du Québec) and consists of having your sleep evaluated by one of our associate physicians. If a sleep disorder is suspected, a prescription will be written for you.

Q: Are the different tests and treatments for sleep disorders offered by OSR Médical covered by health insurance?
A: Currently, the RAMQ does not cover laboratory sleep tests or the purchase/rental of a PAP machine. However, most private insurance companies cover these services.

Q: Can OSR Médical help me find out if I am covered by my private insurance?
A: The staff at OSR Médical will be happy to prepare a quote for you or contact your insurance company to find out about your coverage.

Q: How much do the various services offered by OSR Médical cost?
A: OSR Médical offers several different tests and services. To give you the best service possible and to meet your special needs, we recommend that you contact us by e-mail or telephone.


© OSR Médical, 2007. All rights reserved.
Website created by Bergeron communications inc. | Site credits