Wisconsin coach co. launches sleep apnea program

Riteway Bus Service Inc. has launched the first employer-sponsored Sleep Apnea Health and Safety Program in Southeastern Wisconsin.

Riteway recently partnered with Sleep Apnea Solutions Inc. (SAS) to institute a voluntary and confidential program to promote employee wellness and help prevent accidents associated with driver fatigue.

Research conservatively estimates 28 percent of CDL holders are expected to be at risk for sleep apnea and as of April 2008, the FMCSA’s Medical Review Board highly recommended all CDL holders be tested and treated for it.

Drivers are educated about sleep apnea and perform a brief comprehensive sleep evaluation with SAS sleep specialists prior to completing the home test. Results of these tests are scored by a registered sleep technician and reviewed by a board certified sleep physician. If the results indicate a high likelihood of sleep apnea, the driver is encouraged to start treatment immediately.