[The organization of sleep apnoea care in the Netherlands].

Abstract

Dentists in general practice currently play a very limited role in the care of sleep apnoea patients. Patients are referred by a primary care physician, usually a general practitioner, to a secondary medical care specialist if sleep apnoea is suspected. A medical specialist provides further analysis, diagnosis, and initiation of treatment. Oral healthcare providers who are trained for this can play an important role in early detection and referral of sleep apnea to the general practitioner and in treatment with a mandibular repositioning appliance if indicated by a medical specialist.