Benefit Design Group, Inc

Sleep Apnea Program

The safety of all truckers and the general public is of major concern to the Trucking Industry and the Government. Sleep Apnea, a sleep disorder characterized by abnormal pauses in breathing and tendencies of daytime fatigue, has become a major focus of the trucking regulatory bodies. Federal regulations are expected to be implemented in the very near future. It's anticipated that all drivers meeting certain criteria will be required to be tested for Sleep Apnea. If the results are positive, drivers could be taken off the road until treatment has been received and proof of treatment has been furnished.

The Sleep Apnea Safety Plan is designed to diagnose, test, treat, monitor, and manage the condition from start to finish. Aeroflow works with the drivers, trucking companies, and occupational doctors to certify compliance and virtually eliminate any downtime to all parties. We do this within "The Circle of Compliance".

Evaluation Phase: All new drivers are required to enter the program at time of hire. Current drivers enter the program 90 days prior to the DOT commercial license renewal date. After entering the program, all drivers complete a questionnaire.Drivers considered "at-risk" are then tested for a sleep disorder. Sleep clinic testing is not required; tests can be preformed either at home or while the driver is on the road. This method allows the driver to test while performing normal duties and helps control costs. Drivers are notified of the results.

Treatment Phase: Drivers testing positive will have the option to obtain immediate treatment or wait for the next DOT license renewal exam. Drivers electing treatment will be contacted by an Aeroflow clinician for consultation and treatment options. Aeroflow will coordinate treatment, training, supplies, and finalize payment options with each driver. Interest free financing is available.

DOT Examination Phase: All drivers will be notified 30 to 45 days prior to commercial license renewal date. Aeroflow will provide drivers currently obtaining sleep apnea treatment with a "Certification of Compliance", indicating that the driver is currently receiving treatment and is in compliance with guidelines. Discounts have been arranged with a national occupational medicine organization to help with the cost of the exam.

Compliance and Monitoring Phase: The Program continually works with the driver to monitor compliance and update supplies. Company management is notified when a driver is non-compliant based on agreed guidelines. Drivers are always notified of any DOT re-certification dates or other important notices.