Medico Legal and Economic Aspects of OSA

Abstract

The risk of motor vehicle accidents in OSA patients is 2–3 times that of the general population but effective therapy can normalize this risk. Thus, several jurisdictions have implemented regulations to restrict driving in patients with moderate/severe OSA associated with sleepiness until the disorder is effectively treated. Successful implementation of such regulations requires education of patients, clinicians, and employers in the transportation industry. The economic consequences of untreated OSA amount to billions of dollars relating to direct costs from death or injury with associated healthcare costs, and indirect costs from less work productivity and income loss from lower work potential.