$4.6 MILLION TO SPEED SLEEP DISORDERS TREATMENT: OSWALD

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1,800 More Tests To Be Offered Each Year

The province will invest $4.6 million over three years to deliver faster testing and treatment for Manitobans suffering from sleep disorders, Health Minister Theresa Oswald announced today.

 

“More than 10 per cent of adults live with a sleep disorder that affects their quality of life and can contribute to other serious health problems,” said Oswald. “This funding will dramatically improve patient care and allows us to nearly double the number of annual tests to 3,800 from the current 2,000.”

 

Oswald said the funding will be used to implement a three-point plan to increase access to tests and reduce wait times for treatment. The strategy includes: 

·         the addition of 1,800 tests per year to nearly double the number of annual tests,

·         the development of a centralized wait list, and

·         improved access to equipment for the treatment of diagnosed sleep disorders.

 

“By increasing our capacity, streamlining processes and providing better access to equipment, we can more effectively treat people who are living with a sleep disorder,” said Jan Currie, vice-president and chief nursing officer with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.  “Ultimately, this will improve the physical and mental health and quality of life of those with sleep problems.”

 

“The Brandon Regional Health Authority will continue to work in partnership with the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority,” said Carmel Olson, chief executive officer of the Brandon Regional Health Authority.  “Referrals may be made to either Winnipeg or Brandon through a common process, which should improve screening and scheduling.  Improved access to equipment will certainly lead to earlier intervention.”

 

Sleep disorder testing is available in Winnipeg at the Health Sciences Centre and St. Boniface General Hospital and in Brandon at the Brandon Regional Health Centre.

 

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common sleep disorder.  The main risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea is obesity, with smoking, excessive alcohol intake and family history also playing a role. Obstructive sleep apnea can also increase the risk of other conditions such as hypertension, heart failure and stroke.

 

Manitoba’s sleep disorders strategy is funded under the province’s Wait Time Reduction Fund.