Need advice regarding cpap regs

Discussion in 'Trucking Industry Regulations' started by smellrond, Dec 3, 2014.

  1. smellrond

    smellrond Bobtail Member

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    Jun 19, 2013
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    In June I went for my physical and was told about the new cpap rules. Since I hadn't been using the machine I had no data to prove the machine was working etc. I made a deal with the doc to give me a year and I would come back in 3 months with data.
    Well about a month later I got a letter saying that doctor was quitting that practice and I have since switched doctors. I didn't think I would have to worry about it till next year.
    Now I get a note from my company that the doctor basically ratted me out. They want the cpap data, which I don't have. What is the best way to move forward to keep driving. Can I ask for some more time to start logging on the machine?
    Im afraid if I tell them I don't have any data that they will tell me to stop driving.
     
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  3. Floorguy1

    Floorguy1 Light Load Member

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    Jul 6, 2014
    Duluth MN
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    Why not just use the machine? I didn't think I would like mine. But after a few nights I don't like sleeping without it. I feel great the next day feel rest and have a ton of energy that I haven't had in years.

    They told me if I didn't comply I won't be driving.
     
  4. smellrond

    smellrond Bobtail Member

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    Jun 19, 2013
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    Yes that is the long term solution. Im talking about tomorrow lol, I plan on calling my new doctor and see what she will be willing to do for me. I was hoping to have an idea what to expect from her. Can my old doctor invalidate my MEC If he hasn't even examined me?
     
  5. mnmover

    mnmover Road Train Member

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    Lichfield MN
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    No law exists about cpap. Yet, they think they can enforce it. They want to see you use the machine 4 nights a week for 4 hours. Some insurance companies want to see the machine used 70 per cent of the time you are sleeping. Advised to start a loose leaf notebook keeping exam info and every time you visit the doc along with cpap. Card results. Sorry my tablet wants to change cpap to clap. I use mine almost every night and it makes a difference. Look for used machines from medical supply places where they have sent out a new machine and had it returned. Cheaper.
     
  6. smellrond

    smellrond Bobtail Member

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    Jun 19, 2013
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    I already have a machine and have used it in the past mostly when I worked at night. Hard for anybody to stay awake driving at night, but since I starting working days I never used it. Don't need to im not tired. Im not saying it wouldn't be more healthy to, just that I don't fall asleep or nor am I tired.
     
  7. kemosabi49

    kemosabi49 Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    SW Arkansas
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    No FMCSA sleep apnea or cpap rules exist at this time. If you go for a physical and the doctor wants to use criteria (bmi, neck size etc.) the FMCSA has NOT made part of the D.O.T. physical, you have the right to get a second opinion. See Landline Magazine article at: http://www.landlinemag.com/Story.aspx?StoryID=27988#.VIBu19LF-So. That being said if you think you aren't getting the rest you should be, talk to your own doc about it in a non dot physical setting. If you have to get a sleep study better to do this outside of dot pervue.
     
  8. OFTOTR

    OFTOTR Medium Load Member

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    Jul 19, 2011
    Toccoa GA
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    Are you using the machine at all?

    It sounds like you are trying to beat the system, and you got caught.
     
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