0516 Biopsychosocial intervention using virtual multidisciplinary group with improved PAP adherence after 1 year post intervention

Abstract Introduction Prevalence of untreated sleep apnea among veterans is 22.2 %. Untreated patients are at risk for multiple adverse outcomes including chronic deprivation, excessive day time sleepiness, fatigue, depression, and cardiovascular complications hypertension, coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular accidents, pulmonary hypertension as result increased sympathetic activity during episodes. Nonadherence to PAP therapy within the first week treatment up 50 % who use device between 12-25 discontinue by year 3. Barriers include physical problems with hardware, knowledge gaps, psychological issues. Methods Veterans from medicine clinics well primary care participated in adherence group following 6 weeks biopsychosocial model. The intervention included weekly synchronized video encounters behavior specialist, respiratory therapist clinic nurse targeted poor adherence. This approach has benefits, being patient centered, cost effective efficient ability help various motivational levels, assist 6-10 virtually one-hour sessions easy coordination. Results A total 21 virtual multidisciplinary improve September 2020 January 2021. Patients before intervention, post 1year after was evaluated. Percent using >2 hours 5 %, immediately it 20 there further increase 33% 1 post. Conclusion structured demonstrated statistically significant improvement which persisted till intervention. In fact additional usage noted this suggesting possible long term benefit psychosocial on study also efficiency utilization virtual/telemedicine platform brief behavioral therapy. Support (if any)