Blackstone Changes Face of Home Sleep Testing

TAMPA, FL, April 04, 2013 (Press-News.org) Tampa, Fla.—Blackstone Medical Services, an IDTF specializing in sleep apnea diagnosis and telehealth solutions, uses proprietary cloud-based technology, providing patients and physicians better quality, access and cost—matching the nation's shift to a patient-centered medical home (PCMH) approach.

No longer do CPAP companies need to wait outside pulmonologists' doors for referrals. Blackstone allows preferred DME providers to utilize its cloud-based portal to increase transparency and control over therapy when tests are being performed by PCPs and other physicians. Blackstone provides real-time feedback on which patients were previously tested and where each patient is in the process, allowing a DMEs a unified approach, one that hasn't been available until now.

"Our model works because we are superior in the continuum of patient care," said Vick Tipnes, president of Blackstone Medical Services. "We not only have the highest patient compliance in the industry but we also work seamlessly with DMEs. We ensure that they receive the best follow-up and treatment care from their physicians and DME providers. This reduces the cost of care delivery and enables better physician to DME care coordination."

Blackstone's model involves the use of the industry's top testing device and board-certified sleep physicians. Its easily accessible services increase patients' compliance with sleep studies. Research shows that patients are more likely to complete a sleep study from the comfort of their own home.

Blackstone's model serves as the best of both worlds for all parties involved.

"Not only do patients get to complete the study where they're more comfortable but doctors are able to retain more of their patients because they aren't referring to specialists," said Tipnes. "When doctors prescribe a home sleep study for their patients, they are the ones who can follow up with these patients, resulting in higher patient retention and less out of pocket for patients."

Blackstone works with DME companies that follow the same standard of patient care. With this philosophy, together they can change the lives of those suffering from sleep apnea one home sleep test at a time.

About Blackstone:
Blackstone Medical Services, a Medicare-approved, JCAHO-accredited and nationally recognized IDTF for home sleep testing and telehealth solutions based in Tampa, Fla., has over 12 million covered lives. It is focused on serving those suffering from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and its services eliminate and significantly reduce hospital re-admissions and urgent care visits. OSA is a serious health concern and you should be tested. If you or a loved one suffers from fatigue or daytime sleepiness, call toll-free at 888-710-2727 or visit http://www.blackstonemedicalservices.com for more information.