CPAP study: Patients, providers need to talk more
By HME News Staff
Updated Thu August 31, 2006
SAN DIEGO - While patients clean their sleep masks frequently, most don't replace them as often as recommended under CMS guidelines, according to a blind survey conducted in May by TalkAboutSleep.com.
TalkAboutSleep.com, an online resource for people with sleep disorders, conducted the survey for sleep manufacturer ResMed, which released the results in June.
The survey found that only 30% of the 372 respondents had replaced their masks in the past nine months. About 54% had not replaced their mask in the past 10 months, and 48% had never replaced their mask at all. About 30% of respondents said they use more than one mask, according to the survey.
Mask comfort and patient compliance are closely linked.
"This survey suggests a tremendous need for patient education, as well as a significant business opportunity for home medical equipment providers," said Michael Farrell, ResMed's vice president of marketing.
"We hope this survey serves as another reason for providers to grow their businesses by delivering regular follow-up care."
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HOW OFTEN DO YOU CLEAN YOUR MASK?
26% Daily
7% 4-6 per week
22% 1-3 per week
27% 1-4 per month
15% LESS THAN ONCE A MONTH
4% NEVER
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HOW OFTEN DO YOU REPLACE YOUR MASK?
5% Every 3 months
16% Every 4-6 months
14% Every 7-9 months
18% Less than once a year
48% Never
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