quad decade guy
Well-Known Member
I got diagnosed with sleep apnea about five years ago and have been on a C-PAP machine ever since. You do have to wear it if you want a DOT Card. The custom mouth appliances or the new implant are not recognized by the DOT as treatments. You need to schedule appointments with a Pulmonary Doctor early around here, they are hard to see. You need to carry the memory card from the C-PAP to him so he can read it and write a compliance letter showing use before renewing your DOT card.
I have sleep apnea.
How it works is, when I go in for my DOT physical, I bring a readout from my CPAP machine to prove that I have been using it. Some of the machines have a SIM card you can bring, for others (like mine) you call your medical provider and they mail you a printout.
If you think you have apnea, and your DOT card expires soon, I would wait to get diagnosed until after you get your card renewed, that will give you plenty of time to get used to your CPAP machine before your next physical.
All good advice. Look into UPDATED machines. Mine has wi-fi and Bluetooth. I just hit send and all my info goes straight to my Dr. He can then make adjustments from his office. He can email the report or send it to your DOT DR. Much easier and faster. I applaud you guys for embracing the therapy. Could make you healthier and save your life. Bravo.