Stewart Memorial Community Hospital (SMCH) in Lake City has some simple questions that could reveal a serious issue when it comes to the quantity and quality of sleep received. They want to know if you snore loudly, if you suffer from restless leg syndrome or hypertension, if you feel fatigued or sleepy during the daytime or if anyone has witnessed you stop breathing while sleeping. Tammie Riedell, Director of Respiratory Therapy, says that if you can say yes to any one or more of these, you could be at risk for something more serious, such as obstructive sleep disorder. SMCH is pleased to announce their sleep study service has been approved by the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC) through 2019. “Without accreditation, we would be limited to the kind of testing we can provide,” said Riedell. “We want to provide the greatest and best services to our patients.” Stewart Memorial contracts with Practical Sleep, LLC to conduct the studies that include daytime and nighttime testing. Dr. James Meyer, a pulmonologist with UnityPoint Clinic, reads all test results and ensures patients receive the best aftercare, whether that means prescribing a CPAP machine or a referral to a cardiologist. Patients are encouraged to discuss any symptoms with their healthcare provider, who will conduct a simple screening. To learn more about the sleep studies offered at SMCH, log onto their website at www.stewartmemorial.org.
