ResMed has donated more than 10,000 CPAPs to the American Sleep Apnea Association (ASAA) CPAP assistance program (CAP).

“A donation of this magnitude is unprecedented,” says ASAA executive director Tracy R. Nasca, in a release. “The number of patients that will be touched is truly amazing; their quality of life will be improved, but more importantly, lives will be saved. We are so grateful to ResMed for recognizing the need and providing the solution.”

CAP is just one of the support programs offered to patients by the ASAA. It provides a package containing a CPAPdevice, tubing, filters and mask to patients who otherwise would not be able to afford this vital and lifesaving equipment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) therapy. CAP was launched in 2010 as the ASAA became aware of the many sleep apnea patients who were out of work, without insurance, or facing high deductibles and thus, who through no fault of their own, simply could not afford CPAP therapy equipment. The ASAA has relied on the public and the commercial sleep industry to help with equipment donations to the program.

ResMed CEO Mick Farrell says, “Making CPAP accessible to those who are in need helps us in our mission to improve the lives of those who are challenged by OSA and other sleep and respiratory conditions. We’re grateful that the ASAA has a program that allows us to deliver donated devices to those who need them most.”

Nasca says, “Supply has always been our challenge, but thanks to ResMed, we will now be in a position to increase the reach of our program.” Physicians and social workers can refer patients to apply for assistance at www.sleepapnea.org where forms are provided. Inquiries may be sent to [email protected].