Roughly 48% of American adults have cardiovascular disease. In fact, 1 in 4 deaths is related to heart disease. Every year, heart problems are costing the United States a staggering $219 billion in healthcare services, pharmaceuticals, and productivity loss.
Depending on the prevalence and impact of the disease, the annual medical costs will only keep piling up.
For those who need to take prescription medication, the costs can really make a dent in their wallet. According to research, the cost of coronary artery disease is 10 to 20 times higher compared to the cost of chronic angina.
Those who need to monitor their heart rate are worried about the heart monitor insurance coverage. This kind of monitoring is essential for diagnosing heart rhythm problems and palpitations.
If you want to know more about these devices, including whether they come with insurance coverage, you are in for a treat. This is a detailed guideline that will answer all your queries.
Heart Monitors – The Different Types on the Market
A heart monitor is a battery-powered, small medical device capable of measuring the activity of the heart. Such as the heart rhythm and rate. The device provides continuous recording, which can later be used to determine the reason for the irregular heartbeat, chest pain, arrhythmia, or other symptoms.
Before we talk about the heart monitor insurance coverage, it is important to cover the different types of monitors on the market. These include:
- Holter monitor – this wearable monitoring tool records constant EKG, typically for a span of 24-48h. The latest devices can monitor for a couple of weeks. The average 24h device features 110,000 beats.
- Loop memory monitor – this monitor is responsible for storing the EKG during and before the symptoms.
- Implanted loop recorder – since it is the size of a pager, this device can be added beneath the skin on the chest, where it can remain for three years.
- Cardiac event monitors – quite like the Holter monitor, this device is better meant for long-term cases. Doctors suggest these devices if the symptoms appear infrequently.
- Patch recorder – the device uses an adhesive to stick to the skin on the chest.
- Symptom event monitor – the wearable tool is a monitoring device that needs to be activated and positioned on the chest when the person experiences symptoms.
- New generation devices – with the use of smartwatches and smartphones, patients can send EKG data to their doctor. The constantly increasing technological advances have made portable monitoring technology available for personal use.
Using a Heart Monitor – What Does It Mean?
Whenever a doctor or heart specialist suggests patients use a heart monitor, many are worried that this would mean their heart is in really bad shape. But, that doesn’t always have to be the case. Doctors suggest monitors see how the heart functions in the long term.
The readings can help them assess your cardiovascular system and provide enough reports to solve a medical mystery. The measures are a clear indicator of how the entire cardiovascular system works. If an EKG didn’t detect a heart problem, then a cardiac monitor can aid diagnose the issue.
In other words, wearing a heart monitor becomes a top priority for patients with possible heart complications. The idea is to keep the heart healthy in tip-top shape. Allowing it to function properly.
How Do They Work?
Each monitor has its own unique features, depending on the type, design, and manufacturer. In general, electrodes are applied to the skin. The device will then transmit EKG information to a specific storage system.
Some of the latest products use wireless technology to transmit information. Depending on the product used, the information can be stored or downloaded for further interpretation.
The massive advantage of this monitoring technology is that users can receive real-time alerts of how their heart is doing.
That includes their heart abnormalities and unstable rhythm.
Why Should I Wear a Monitor If I Don’t Have Any Symptoms?
Spotting abnormal heartbeat is like fishing. You need to wait a long time before you catch a fish. In some cases, 24h to 48h is enough to collect the necessary information. However, in other cases, the heart rhythm abnormalities are so incoherent that further monitoring may be necessary.
The heart monitor must be given enough time to assess the heart state and help patients live a healthier and fuller life.
Do I Get Heart Monitor Insurance Coverage?
Many patients want to know if they have to worry about heart monitor insurance coverage. Most devices have insurance coverage when prescribed by a doctor. Others, particularly injectable loop recorders or Holters, need proper insurance before authorization.
Typically, the majority of insurance companies and Medicare will cover a cardiac event monitor.
Before you decide to get yourself a heart monitor, consult with a general practitioner. They can prescribe EKG and refer you to a specialist if necessary.
Contact your insurance provider for further details on heart monitoring and whether you get complete heart monitor insurance coverage. It is always a good idea to obtain prior authorization before getting a long-term heart monitoring system.
Final Thoughts
A heart monitor has many uses. Due to its practicality and convenience, it has become a widely used medical device. When it comes to heart monitor insurance coverage, most insurance plans will take care of the device costs. But, for further details, it is a good idea to contact a specialist or insurance offerers. Each insurance provider may have its own benefits and type of coverage.
