Home sleep test in Kogarah, Sydney

What is a home sleep test?

A home sleep test (also called a home sleep study) records what your body does while you sleep. Small sensors measure things like your breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate and sleep position through the night.

A sleep specialist reviews the recording to see whether you have obstructive sleep apnoea, where your airway narrows or closes during sleep, and how severe it is.

Who is it for?

A home sleep test may help if you, or the person you share a bed with, notice:

• loud, regular snoring
• pauses in breathing, choking or gasping during sleep
• waking up tired even after a full night in bed
• feeling very sleepy during the day, or nodding off while reading, watching TV or driving
• morning headaches, or getting up often at night to go to the toilet

A home study isn't right for everyone. People with some heart, lung or neuromuscular conditions may need an overnight study in a sleep lab instead. Your doctor or our team will check this before your test.

Is it bulk billed?

Yes, for patients who meet Medicare's criteria. That means there's no out-of-pocket cost to you. To be eligible you need either:

• a referral from your GP showing you've scored above set levels on short screening questionnaires: an Epworth Sleepiness Scale score of 8 or more, plus a high-risk score on STOP-Bang, OSA50 or the Berlin questionnaire, or
• an assessment by a sleep or respiratory specialist who decides you need a sleep study.

Medicare also limits how often a diagnostic sleep study can be claimed. If you've had one recently, let us know. If you don't meet the criteria, we'll explain your options and any cost before you book. See fees & Medicare for more detail.

What happens, step by step

1. See your GP

   Take our referral form with you. Your GP completes the questionnaires with you and signs the referral, or sends it to us directly.

2. Book your fitting

   Once we have your referral, call us or book online for a fitting appointment. Fittings run in the afternoon, Monday to Friday.

3. Get fitted at our Kogarah clinic

   Allow about [XX] minutes. We attach the sensors, check they're working and show you how to remove them in the morning. Wear loose, comfortable clothing with a button-up top.

4. Sleep at home

   Go home and follow your normal evening routine. Keep the equipment dry and try to sleep as you usually would.

5. Return the equipment

   Bring the device back to the clinic the next morning.

6. Get your results

   A sleep physician reviews your study and the report goes to your referring doctor, usually within [X] working days. Book a follow-up with your GP to talk through the results.

How to prepare

• Wash and dry your hair on the day. Don't use oils, gels or hairspray.
• Remove nail polish or acrylic nails from at least one finger (the oxygen sensor clips onto a fingertip).
• Take your usual medicines unless your doctor tells you otherwise, and bring a list of them.
• Avoid caffeine after midday and alcohol on the night of the test, if you can.
• Try not to nap during the day of your study.

What happens after the test?

If your study shows sleep apnoea, your doctor will talk with you about treatment options. Depending on the severity, these may include lifestyle changes, a dental splint, positional therapy or CPAP therapy. Some people are referred on to a sleep specialist. If CPAP is recommended, we can help you get started here in Kogarah.

Home sleep test FAQs