Frequently Asked Questions
Your questions answeredWe take the time to understand what's really going on – not just the symptoms, but how they're affecting your life. Take some time to find answers to all your questions below.
Can't find an answer? Contact us directly, and we’ll be happy to help you.
About our Service
-
We assess, diagnose, and treat the full range of sleep and respiratory conditions — from snoring and sleep apnoea to asthma, chronic cough, breathlessness, and interstitial lung disease. All sleep testing is done at home, and we offer clinics across the South Island.
-
You can book directly for most sleep and respiratory concerns. Some assessments (such as NZTA/CAA sleep evaluations or immigration medicals) may require a referral. If you're unsure, just get in touch and we'll guide you.
-
Most initial appointments take around 30–60 minutes. This gives us time to understand your symptoms, review your history, and plan the right investigations or treatment.
-
Yes. Telehealth is available for patients anywhere in Aotearoa.
Sleep FAQs
-
Common signs include loud snoring, pauses in breathing, waking unrefreshed, morning headaches, and daytime sleepiness. If someone has noticed you stop breathing during sleep, it's worth getting assessed.
-
No. All our sleep studies are done at home using modern, validated equipment. You sleep in your own bed, and our team of sleep scientists will guide you through the setup.
-
We offer several types of home sleep studies — from simple overnight oximetry to full Level 2 polysomnography. The right test depends on your symptoms. We'll recommend the most appropriate option after your initial consultation.
-
Not everyone with sleep apnoea needs CPAP. Treatment depends on the severity of your condition, your symptoms, and your preferences. Options include CPAP, oral appliances, positional therapy, weight-focused treatment, and lifestyle strategies.
-
You're not alone — many people struggle at first. Our physiologists work closely with you on mask fitting, comfort, and troubleshooting. If CPAP still isn't right for you, we'll discuss alternatives.
-
Yes. We offer Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBTi), which is the gold-standard treatment. We also assess for underlying sleep disorders that may be contributing to poor sleep.
-
RLS causes an uncomfortable urge to move the legs, especially in the evening. It can disrupt sleep and cause daytime fatigue. We assess for contributing factors such as low iron and offer a range of treatment options.
Respiratory FAQs
-
Depending on your symptoms, you may need spirometry, full lung function testing, FeNO, imaging, or overnight oximetry. We'll explain each test and why it's needed.
-
Yes. We provide full assessment, testing, and treatment plans for asthma, COPD, chronic cough, and other respiratory conditions.
-
Breathlessness can have many causes — respiratory, cardiac, metabolic, or sleep-related. We'll take a detailed history, perform the right tests, and help you understand what's driving your symptoms.
-
Yes. Our physicians have extensive experience in diagnosing and managing ILD, including anti-fibrotic therapy, immunosuppressive treatment, and long-term monitoring.
-
Please bring a list of your medications, any previous test results, and a summary of your symptoms. If you use CPAP or an oral appliance, bring that too.
-
Yes — each of our clinic locations has nearby parking. Details are provided in your appointment confirmation.
-
Sleep study results are usually available within 1–2 weeks. Respiratory test results are often available sooner. Your clinician will discuss the timeline with you.
-
We currently see adults aged 16 and over. For younger patients, we can help direct you to the appropriate paediatric services.
-
Just contact us by phone or email. We appreciate as much notice as possible so we can offer the appointment to someone else.
Appointments & Practicalities
Appointments
& Practicalities
Treatment & Follow-up
-
This depends on your condition and treatment plan. Some patients need only one or two appointments; others benefit from ongoing support. We'll tailor follow-up to your needs.
-
Yes. We communicate clearly with your GP and collaborate with ENT, dentistry, psychology, and other specialists when needed.
-
Yes. For patients where weight contributes to sleep or breathing issues, we offer clinical assessment, personalised plans, and GLP-1 based therapies when appropriate.
Payment
-
We are a Southern Cross Approved Provider. Many insurers cover specialist respiratory and sleep consultations and testing. Coverage varies, so we recommend checking with your provider.
As an approved Southern Cross Affiliated Provider, we can arrange prior approval for eligible healthcare services on your behalf.