Remote consultations in sleep disorders

Abstract

Extensive literature is available regarding the use of telemedicine for continuous positive airway pressure treatment and monitoring in adults. Telemedicine is less well developed in children and for other sleep disorders. Remote consultations are considered part of the telemedicine model. These consultations can be used for screening or diagnosis, and allow the incorporation of questionnaires, but they can also be used for the communication of test results and treatment options, for tele-education and for follow-up. There is also evidence that cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia can be successfully offered via remote consultations. A remote approach can enable earlier access to sleep professionals, but also saves travel time and costs, with less missed work/school time. Overall, the use of remote consultation helps increase the value of healthcare delivery and has high satisfaction rates.