We often know what it costs to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)—an average of $2,105 per year for insured patients—but have you ever thought about what good sleep is actually worth? Assigning a value to things like feeling well-rested, being in a better mood, and having a lower risk of a heart attack is difficult. But one thing is clear: untreated OSA costs you far more than you might think.
A 2011 Danish study found that patients with untreated OSA face significant financial losses due to missed work and lost employment opportunities. These indirect costs are just one aspect of the true “price” of poor sleep. By calculating these losses, we can get a better idea of what good sleep is really worth and why treating OSA is an investment in your health, career, and quality of life.
The Hidden Financial Costs of Untreated Sleep Apnea
While untreated snoring alone can be costly, untreated OSA hits patients and the healthcare system even harder. The Danish study revealed that untreated OSA patients lose, on average, $4,439 per year in missed income due to reduced employment rates and lower wages. For someone considering the cost of OSA treatment, that’s more than double what they would typically spend out-of-pocket for therapy.
This is just the beginning: patients who go untreated also face a higher likelihood of health complications, which drives up medical expenses and leads to increased spending on medications and hospital visits. These costs quickly add up, both for the patient and the healthcare system.
The Long-Term Impact of Delayed Diagnosis
Unfortunately, in the United States, the average patient lives with OSA for 10 years before receiving a diagnosis. This delay in detection results in a staggering $44,390 in forfeited income over a decade and a total cost to the healthcare system of $75,380. These numbers are likely even higher in the U.S. compared to Denmark, given our more expensive healthcare system and higher average wages. The bottom line? Delaying treatment has a steep price tag, not just for you, but for the broader economy as well.
Early Detection: The Key to Reducing Costs and Improving Health
The solution is straightforward: early detection and intervention. By diagnosing and treating OSA early, patients not only improve their quality of life but also reduce their risk of developing other serious conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
Streamlining the diagnostic process—through quicker assessments, telehealth appointments, and immediate access to therapy—can drastically cut down on the time and money wasted in traditional healthcare settings. This approach not only saves on indirect costs, but can also transform lives by enabling people to regain their energy, productivity, and overall well-being.
Invest in Good Sleep With Konk Sleep
If you’ve been delaying treatment for sleep apnea, it’s time to take action. Addressing OSA early can prevent health complications, increase your earning potential, and improve your daily life. Don’t wait another day, explore faster, more affordable diagnostic options with Konk Sleep.