My experience was definitely a mixed bag, but overall poor.
Positive: The sleep tech for the study was great. Friendly, helpful, explained carefully, etc. The room was nicely set up, like a hotel room.
Negative: Margena Branch, NP. I went in to discuss the results of the sleep study with her. She simply said: "Yes, you have sleep apnea." Then we stared at one another. I was waiting for some explanation, or understanding of the degree of apnea, or other results from the testing. Nothing. So I started asking questions. She looked frustrated and gave me a copy of the results. I then proceeded to ask: "What does this mean?" Curt answer and silence. So I repeated again and again on each test result and asked follow-up questions. It was like pulling teeth! You could tell she was frustrated with me. But, hell, my insurance is paying a lot of money for this and I feel like I deserved some feedback and understanding.
Between the study and the follow-up session, I had done some research on machines, masks, etc. But in this session was basically given little choice, like it was pre-determined that I would need the machine and mask that they offered. I hate that kind of pressure. I took the results and the prescription (necessary to qualify for the machine), and left. And ended up getting a newer machine and mask from a local DME supplier who explained everything thoroughly and courteously.
My insurance required a follow up visit after I had used the machine consistently for about a month. Unfortunately, it was with Margena again. I set the appointment, arrived on time, was told the session would only last about 15 minutes. I was put in a small room, waited 35 minutes for Margena. What was frustrating was that I could hear her socializing with someone outside of the room for virtually all that time while I waited. When she finally came in, glanced at the results, and said simply: "You passed your use test". Then stared. OMG -- again? So we went through the question and answer dance again for 3-4 minutes. I took the results and left.
When I got my EOB from insurance for that last visit, she had charged for a 25-minute session. Her time with me was 5 minutes at most. Unbelievable! If you have an alternative to her, take it! read more