Screening FAQs

  • I was just flagged for Sleep Apnea and only got a 90 day medical card from my CME. What do I do now?
    • Your CME requires you to get tested for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). If your test results positive for OSA, you will need to be able to show that you’ve used the CPAP for 30 days before that 90 day period is up. This means you should get tested ASAP in case you are positive for OSA and need to prove compliance with the CPAP therapy.
  • I heard that sleep apnea testing was no longer law?
    • It has never been a law. The guidance for sleep apnea testing has always been a recommendation for the DOT certified medical examiners (CMEs) to watch for patients that may have sleep apnea. The CMEs have guidelines to determine if a driver is at risk for OSA and to flag them for testing. It is up to each CME to use the recommended guidelines.

Testing FAQs

  • How long does it take to get the testing unit?
    • Testing unit is sent USPS Priority Mail, delivery time is 2-3 days.
  • How long do I have to take the Home Sleep Study?
    • Five hours of sleep time with the testing device is required to accurately deliver a full test.
  • Can I take the test more than once?
    • If you feel the first test was not complete, you can take the test a second time prior to shipping it back to us.
  • How long until I get the results?
    • Once we get your test back, we will contact you within 48 hours with your results that have been reviewed by a board-certified sleep specialist.
  • What happens if I test positive?
    • If you test positive for OSA, the next step is to purchase a CPAP machine and start your therapy. Your CME will likely want to see a 30 day report before your temporary card expires.
  • If I test positive, will I have to use a CPAP unit for the rest of my life?
    • Not necessarily. With consistent CPAP use, and positive health changes, it is possible to lower your need for a CPAP unit.

 

OSA and CPAP Therapy FAQs

  • What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
    • Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder. It refers to a condition that means you stop breathing while you sleep due to a partial or complete blockage of your airway when the soft tissue in your throat collapses.  These pauses in breath can happen 5-100 times per hour and often causes fatigue.  If left untreated, OSA can lead to serious health problems
  • What’s a CPAP machine and why do I need to use it?
    • A CPAP machine delivers gentle, continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) to keep your airway open while you sleep. You use a CPAP machine with a mask that delivers the airflow to you while you sleep.
  • Do you offer CPAP machines?
    • Yes, we have CPAP machines along with an assortment of masks and accessory options.
  • I can’t afford a CPAP. Do you offer a payment plan?
    • Yes, we can work with you on a payment plan.
  • Can I get replacement parts from you?
    • Yes, we’re happy to help you get what you need so you can continue using your CPAP therapy.
  • How long do I need to use the CPAP unit each night?
    • To be compliant, you need to use your CPAP machine for at least 4 hours a night, at least 70% of the time or more. Ultimately, the goal is to use the device each and every time you sleep for the best results. The best part is that, after you get used to sleeping with a CPAP device, it helps you sleep and feel much better.
  • What is a compliance report?
    • The compliance report is generated from your CPAP unit.  It will record when you use the device and how well your therapy is working for you.
  • How do I get the compliance report?
    • Depending on which device you purchase, the compliance report can be accessed different ways. The most common is by downloading free software from the CPAP’s manufacturer website, then connecting your CPAP to a computer to download the compliance data.  We can help pull that information and send it to your, or to your CME.
  • Do I need to use the CPAP unit on my nights off?
    • If you are holding a CDL, you need to be using your CPAP unit.  It does not matter if you are on vacation, or simply a night off.  You will want to use your CPAP unit to keep your compliance at or above 70%.
  • Once I have been on a CPAP unit for 30 days, am I done?
    • You will need to keep using your CPAP unit regularly.  Your DOT CME will want to see another compliance report next year for your physical.  At that time, the CME will likely ask for a year-long report rather than a 30-day report, so it’s important to continue your CPAP therapy.  There’s the added benefit that you’ll also experience the best results if you use your CPAP regularly.
  • I don’t think I need CPAP treatment anymore. How can I stop being required to use it?
    • To stop needing to report compliance monitoring to your DOT CME, you would need to test negative for Sleep Apnea. This would be done by taking a new test, and without using your CPAP unit.