"Sleep apnoea service"

I was referred to the sleep apnoea clinic and although I was told there was a long waiting list I had an appointment relatively quickly. I was seen by a health care worker who was very friendly and pleasant and thoroughly explained the machinery I needed to do the test.

I waited 5 months for the report but again I was informed there would be a delay. I was extremely disappointed with the letter - firstly it wasn’t addressed to me but my GP so it felt like I was only getting a copy. At no point was I consulted on the treatment plan nor the decision to not treat me as the reading was mild SA. I did not speak to a clinician and was not asked how the symptoms were affecting my life (the symptoms are severe and have a significant impact on my daily life despite the “numbers”). I filled out a questionnaire but this seems very impersonal and not at all person centred. I had hoped to have a discussion with a clinician and at least be given the option for a CPAP trial to assess whether this would help. I understand there are recommendations on lifestyle changes but this is not a “quick fix” and perhaps something in the short term would have helped.

Overall a disappointing result at a time when person centred care and patient choice is widely promoted.