Devices & Diagnostics, Health IT

Philips’ motivational tool for sleep apnea patients could improve adherence

Although medical device companies have tried to help people with obstructive sleep apnea with various […]

Although medical device companies have tried to help people with obstructive sleep apnea with various implements to keep their air passages open as they sleep, adherence has proven to be stumbling block.

Philips Respironics is trying to remedy the issue with a self-management smartphone app and Web-based tool to troubleshoot any problems patients have using its System One positive airway pressure device. The SleepMapper also provides educational material, such as videos to demonstrate how to put on the mask, as well as motivate users and help them better understand their condition.

It helps users set goals for themselves, and track problems they might encounter using the device like adjusting the fit of their mask. It can also provide reminders such as when to change filters for the device. Users are also encouraged to set goals for themselves and track their progress. They can also monitor how many hours of sleep therapy they have had.

Obstructive sleep apnea involves a narrowing or closing of the upper airway, that causes people with the condition to stop breathing while they are sleeping. The condition affects 4 percent of men and 2 percent of women in the US, according to data from the World Congress on Sleep Medicine.

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