It can be expensive. All in all, I know apnea monitors can make a really big difference in infants with unresolved apnea of prematurely. I am not convinced that they do all that much for SIDS siblings. If they are not sure about monitoring and they are consulting me they will almost always have a monitor in their home. Apnea monitors alert parents to prolonged apneas or low heart rates as defined by the alarm limits set by your physician.
Any physician can order or write a prescription for an apnea monitor.
Most Pediatricians and Family Medicine doctors do not know a whole lot about the monitors or the alarms. Parents who have this technology in the house should be seen by a physician that is experienced with these monitors and cares for many of these type of patients each year. Although a physician can order an apnea monitor and write that it is medically indicated or necessary, the health insurance company may not cover this expense in all of their types of health policies. If it is not covered the patient is responsible for the payment to the DME company. These are just my opinions and I hope this helps.