So, home sleep tests are pretty new to the world of sleep apnea diagnosis- Especially since TRICARE just approved it this year, meaning they will pay for the test now if you get one. So how does it work? What does it involve?
A home sleep test is pretty much a simplified, cheaper (for the insurance), and more comfortable way to get a sleep test if your physician thinks you may have sleep apnea. Getting a home sleep test is cool because you can take it at home (surprise!) instead of going to a sleep lab, which may not be the most comfortable experience. A HST unit is usually about the size of your hand and you sleep with it strapped around your chest. It will measure SpO2 (Blood Oxygen Level), your flow(air flow from inhaling and exhaling), your body position, chest effort and your pulse throughout the night as you sleep. Then the data will be interpreted and it will be determined whether or not you have sleep apnea.
Here is a link to some pictures and a little more information about Home Sleep Tests:
Tricare Sleep.com