Navigating sleep apnea in Scandinavia - a journey of contrasts

TL;DR

This study explores how people in Southeast Norway experience sleep apnea care, highlighting the need for more personalized and supportive services.

Contribution

The study provides novel insights into patient experiences with sleep apnea services in Scandinavia using a Co-Design approach.

Findings

Patients view CPAP machines as both essential and burdensome.

Healthcare providers are seen as both obstacles and allies in managing sleep apnea.

Personalized services may improve patient experiences and outcomes.

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea is a prevalent condition with substantial physical, psychological, and social burdens, yet limited research explores how patients experience sleep apnea–related services in the Scandinavian context. This study aims to examine lived experiences of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up services in Southeast Norway to identify opportunities for service improvement.

Using a Co‑Design approach, the study examined assessment and treatment services through participatory workshops and semi‑structured interviews with ten (10) participants. Reflexive thematic analysis, guided by Braun and Clarke’s framework, supported an inductive development of themes, refined through participant feedback and comparison across data sources.

Four themes emerged: (1) The CPAP machine - a lifeline and a toll, (2) Forsaken but not fallen - carrying the weight of one’s own care, (3) Healthcare providers - obstacle and ally, and (4) Life on hold - the emotional and social impact. Differences in workshop and interview participants suggest more personalised services may influence experiences and outcomes.

Our analysis highlights the need for more tailored, responsive and coordinated services that reflect to the diverse physical and psychosocial realities of people living with obstructive sleep apnea. These exploratory findings will inform subsequent Co-Design work to improve service models.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a widespread disorder that poses significant physical, psychological, and social challenges. This study provides novel insights into peoples lived experiences with diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up services in a Scandinavian context, an area with limited prior research. Using Co-Design methodology, it highlights challenges in current care models, particularly the burdens of CPAP treatment, the personal responsibility patients bear, and the complex roles of healthcare providers. Findings underscore the need for more personalized, holistic service models that address not only clinical but also psychosocial aspects of obstructive sleep apnea care. This work offers valuable guidance for patient-centered approaches and health service improvement for this population.

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