Poor Sleep Often Goes Unaddressed During Doctor Visits
Summary: A 2024 survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) shows that 51% of Americans have never discussed their sleep concerns with a healthcare provider, despite over half believing they don’t get enough sleep. The AASM highlights that these conversations can help diagnose sleep disorders and improve overall health. However, some patients face challenges in accessing sleep care, with 17% reporting insurance coverage issues. To promote better health, AASM advises patients to track their sleep, mention concerns during appointments, and ask questions about potential sleep-disrupting medications.
Key Takeaways:
- Sleep Conversations Are Overlooked: The survey indicates that while 54% of Americans believe they don’t get enough sleep, 51% have never discussed this with their doctors, potentially missing opportunities for diagnosis and treatment.
- Barriers to Sleep Care: Insurance issues are a significant barrier, with 17% of patients unable to get the necessary treatment for sleep problems due to denied coverage.
- Proactive Approach Encouraged: The AASM advises patients to track sleep patterns, mention concerns during medical appointments, and discuss symptoms to optimize their health and well-being.
A 2024 survey from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine reveals that 51% of Americans have never discussed their sleep with a health professional.
The AASM advises that talking about sleep concerns can help doctors identify underlying problems and potentially diagnose a sleep disorder.
“Over half (54%) of Americans believe that they don’t get enough sleep, yet they do not volunteer this information when they meet with their health care providers,” says Kin M. Yuen, MD, a sleep physician who serves on the AASM’s Advocacy Committee, in a release. “We must redefine what is acceptable, which is to optimize our health, sleep, and nutrition. Talking about sleep habits and concerns should be part of every health encounter.”
Some patients who discuss sleep with their health care professionals are unable to receive the help that they need. The survey indicates 17% of people have had trouble getting care for a sleep disorder or sleep problem because their health insurance plan declined to pay for the service.
“Ideally, everyone struggling with healthy sleep should receive the care that they need,” says Yuen in a release. “Sleep is essential to health and treating a sleep disorder can be the key to better health and well-being.”
But how should patients talk to their doctor about sleep? The AASM recommends:
- Track Your Sleep: Keep a sleep diary, or use a sleep tracker, to help you and your doctor understand your typical sleep pattern and sleep duration.
- Mention Sleep: When booking your appointment or when you arrive, mention that you want to discuss your sleep concerns during the appointment.
- Discuss Symptoms: Tell your doctor about the key features of your sleep problem, such as snoring, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, restless legs in the evening or at night, or excessive daytime sleepiness.
- Ask Questions: If you are taking a medication, ask your doctor if it can cause sleep problems as a side effect. If so, ask if you should either take the medication at a different time of day or try a different medication.
The AASM says to arrive at appointments prepared with questions or concerns so you and your doctor can work together to take action and make a treatment plan.
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