Physician Disease

Risk for Patient and Physician

The serious nature of disease-related breathing problems and obstructive sleep apnea requires a deeper understanding by physicians. There is nothing more disturbing for someone with a neuromuscular disease than the idea of being strapped to a breathing apparatus. For this reason, patients may avoid addressing symptoms or acknowledging the progressive nature of their disease.

There is also a serious liability issue for physicians. California law requires physicians report to their county health officer all patients "Characterized by lapses of consciousness or periods of confusion which may become a chronic condition." Lapses of consciousness, as caused, for example, by chronic excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), by obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) or narcolepsy, must also be reported. (Title 17: California Code of Regulations, Section 2572)