Comparison of Time Interval to Obstructive Sleep Apnea Diagnosis in a Direct Referral Program versus Standard Care

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

5-19-2025

Publication Title

Sleep

Abstract

Introduction: A Direct Referral program was initiated at Henry Ford Health in 2015 to facilitate easier access and expedite sleep testing. The effectiveness of the Direct Referral program in com parison to standard care is unclear in terms of time interval to establish Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) diagnosis. Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted for patients referred for diagnostic sleep studies between September and December 2022 via the Direct Referral pathway versus a standard sleep clinic consult. Patients aged 18 years or older were included. Exclusion criteria included patients younger than 18 years and those participating in both pathways. Results: A total of 342 patients were evaluated for inclusion in the Direct Referral cohort, and 509 patients were assessed for the standard care cohort. Ultimately, 147 patients were included in the Direct Referral cohort, while 268 patients were included in the standard care cohort for final analysis. The mean time to confirm or rule out an OSA diagnosis was significantly shorter in the Direct Referral group compared to the standard care group (51 days vs. 105.6 days; p <.001). Conclusion: Time to inclusion or exclusion of OSA diagnosis was significantly shorter in the Direct Referral cohort compared to the standard care cohort.

Volume

48

First Page

A586

Find It @ Sladen

Share

COinS