An evaluation of management of severe sleep-disordered breathing by non-physician providers

What is it about?

Long wait times for care of breathing-related sleep disorders are common and have sparked interest in new ways of delivering care. This study explored whether care of patients with severe forms of breathing-related sleep disorders using non-physician providers (supervised by sleep physicians) was comparable to care by sleep physicians. Although patients randomized to this new model of care demonstrated slightly lower use of therapy, they had improvements in symptoms and quality of life, and also experienced shorter wait times for care.

Featured Image

Why is it important?

This study demonstrates the potential value of a model of care in which non-physicians can be used to provide quality care for patients with complex breathing-related sleep disorders. Clinical providers and health system decision-makers can use these results when seeking to improve access for this high-risk group of patients.