A 4-week wait 'fast-track' sleep service is effective at establishing vocational drivers on continuous positive airway pressure

Abstract

We sought to establish whether an expedited or 'fast-track' NHS service to diagnose obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and establish vocational drivers on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) within 4 weeks of referral was possible. This model is recommended by the OSA Partnership Group. In total, 55 vocational drivers were referred to two sleep services. Assessment showed 73% had moderate or severe OSA on sleep study. Of those commenced on CPAP, review was a mean of 15 days after initiation (range 3-62 days). Median time from referral (or first clinic visit) to review on CPAP was 32 days, showing a 'fast-track' pathway is deliverable.

Keywords: CPAP; Continuous positive airway pressure; fast-track service; obstructive sleep apnoea.