0278 Patient Satisfaction with a Novel Sleep Telehealth Platform in the US Military

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Despite a high prevalence of sleep problems, there is a gross shortage of sleep clinicians within the military health system. To increase access to care, a novel telehealth platform was designed to empower patients and clinicians to make evidence-based sleep treatment decisions. Here, we present initial results from the implementation of this novel sleep telehealth platform in two military treatment facilities (MTFs). Methods Participants (N=305) with sleep complaints were recruited remotely and/or in-person from two MTFs. Participants were predominately men (53.4%), who self-identified as White (55.4%) or Black (24.1%) race and were retired or active-duty military servicemembers (69%). Average age was 45.9 (SD=13.3) years. Participants completed a baseline assessment including standardized research questionnaires via a mobile application (WellTap®). During a 10-day remote monitoring assessment, participants completed daily sleep diaries and twice-daily mood/daytime function surveys, while wearing a commercial-off-the-shelf device (Fitbit®). A personalized sleep report including evidence-based treatment recommendations was provided. Participants completed a satisfaction survey regarding the remote monitoring assessment. Results The most commonly reported sleep problems were difficulty staying asleep (65%), insufficient sleep (61%), and snoring (40%). Most participants described their sleep quality as “a little good” (51%) or “not at all good” (27%). Thirty-nine percent of participants reported moderate to severe insomnia complaints, 38% reported moderate to severe excessive daytime sleepiness, and 22% reported moderate to severe depressive symptoms. In terms of satisfaction, participants reported the sleep assessments were “easy” to complete (92%) and would consider sleep telehealth approaches in the future (95%). The vast majority of participants preferred to continue with sleep telehealth and preferred to combine a mobile app and remote monitoring with either virtual or face-to-face provider support. Conclusion Patients at two military treatment hospitals reported high levels of satisfaction with a novel 10-day intensive remote monitoring assessment including a mobile health assessment and wrist-wearable device. Future studies should evaluate the clinical and economic impact of sleep telehealth and remote monitoring in the U.S. military. Support (if any) Department of Defense (W81XWH1990006) via the Medical Technology Enterprise Consortium) to the University of Maryland, Baltimore (PI: EMW).