OSA patients, providers need to talk more, survey says
By HME News Staff
Updated Sun June 25, 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 last week.
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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