The sleep industry
continues to face challenges
in increasing compliance and
long-term adherence of patients to
PAP therapy. Where low levels of
compliance are concerning, it also
presents a massive opportunity
for DME providers and device
manufacturers. Long-term
adherent patients not only benefit
from improved health outcomes
but also drive sustainable revenue
opportunities for DME providers.
The components of a typical
setup, which influence therapy
adherence, are the CPAP machine,
breathing mask, educational
support, and patient behavioral
factors. The most significant of all
these, from a device perspective,
is the mask. Technological
advancements and patient-centric
mask solutions, optimized for
specific DME business models,
are driving new ways to improve
patient adherence rates and
successful business outcomes.
Since the mask is in contact
with the patient’s face, it requires
carefully designed features to
comply with a wide range of facial
dimensions and geometries. It
needs daily care plus adjustments
to minimize leaks. If not set up
properly, the mask leaks could
cause discomfort and result in
poor adherence. The usability
of PAP hinges heavily on the
patient’s perception of the mask,
as it’s the most patient-dependent
component of the whole setup.
MASK TECHNOLOGY MATTERS
Masktechnologies have evolved a lot
over time. Masks are now designed
with advanced engineering materials
using state-of-the-art automated
manufacturing processes which integrate
materials into very intricate shapes.
As an example, F&P Simplus was the
pioneer in using silicone in an intelligent
way to reduce pressure on the bridge of
the nose and also to achieve leakproof
sealing capability up to very high CPAP /
BiPAP pressures.
Use of patient-centric product design
methodologies with extensive use of
data and product-use testing has driven
the quality of masks to meet the very
demanding patient compliance and
comfort requirements with optimal size
and shapes. Nasal pillows can gently
minimize irritation in the nostrils.
State-of-the-art manufacturing
techniques drive the quality of masks,
especially to meet the very demanding
usability expectations of patients. Headgear that holds its shape to make
them easier to wear has now become
available. Users can put on this headgear
with one easy, single-handed movement
and with their eyes closed — just like
putting on a baseball hat.
MASK SIZE MATTERS
Appropriately selecting the correct/optimal size of cushion and headgear
also drives compliance, as a wrong-sized
cushion can lead to unintentional leaks
and cause a number of cascading issues
such as dry eyes, skin irritation, etc.
Several new software apps are being
developed to assess the appropriate
size. A more robust approach to the size
challenge, however, especially when
setting up a new patient, is to go with
a trusted and proven low-tech solution
which includes multiple sizes in one pack.
Kits that offer multiple sizes of
cushions in one single package and
include very simple and intuitive patient
instructions, such as F&P Fit Packs,
enable the patients to identify the
optimal size of cushion appropriate
for their individual needs. This also
encourages patient involvement in
the process and develops patient
engagement with the therapy, and helps
them solve problems and become selfreliant,
which is extremely important for
long-term adherence.
PATIENT PERCEPTION MATTERS
CPAP therapy can be overwhelming for
new patients, and resolving issues in a
timely way can make or break a patient’s
confidence and motivation to stay on
therapy long-term.
Education and support are two of
the most important factors to consider.
DME-based respiratory therapists play a
significant role in imparting the required
education and guidance. However,
Software tools, especially mask-focused
smartphone apps are also playing a
significant role in helping the patients.
On-demand help at patients’ fingertips
is an important solution consideration for
DMEs. Apps such as F&P myMask App
are gaining momentum and could play
a transformative role in making patients
self-sufficient in troubleshooting routine
issues.
POINTS TO REMEMBER
- Mask matters the most in steering
patient perception and compliance - Mask technology features play a
role in driving long-term adherence. - Enable patients to become more
self-reliant in sizing their cushions,
troubleshooting routine mask
issues, and understanding how
to use and clean their masks by
providing on-demand help on their
smartphones.
LEARN MORE
To read more articles and features
about therapy, visit hme-business.
com/sleep. To learn more about Fisher & Paykel Healthcare’s sleep therapy
solutions, visit www.fphcare.com/us/homecare/campaigns/mystart/ or
FitmyMask.com.
