Solving Atlantic Canada’s Sleep Crisis: Direct Access to Sleep Apnea Testing
Halifax, NS — Fatigue, brain fog, headaches, and loud snoring are commonly dismissed as stress or aging but for many Canadians, these symptoms point to an undiagnosed sleep disorder such as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Heather Shantora, CEO & President at Resolve Sleep Health, joined Nova Scotia Today on CityNews 95.7 Halifax to discuss Canada’s growing sleep health crisis and the systemic barriers preventing timely diagnosis and care.
Listen to the segment here (26 minutes in): Nova Scotia Today with Dan Ahlstrand – 95.7 NewsRadio Halifax
During the interview, key challenges facing Atlantic Canadians were discussed, most notably lengthy wait times for specialist-led sleep assessments. In parts of Atlantic Canada, patients can wait 50–60 weeks to see a sleep specialist, according to national healthcare access data. That delay can mean nearly a year of ongoing symptoms, reduced quality of life, and elevated health risks.
The conversation also highlighted the scale and economic impact of sleep apnea in Canada. An estimated 20% of Canadians may have obstructive sleep apnea, yet the majority remain undiagnosed and untreated. In Atlantic Canada alone, sleep disorders contribute to an estimated $5.2 million annually in lost productivity, healthcare utilization, and related costs.
Why This Matters
Untreated sleep apnea affects far more than energy levels. Research consistently links poor sleep health to:
- Increased risk of high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
- Daytime sleepiness that compromises safety at work and on the road
- Changes in mood, memory, and focus that strain productivity and relationships
- Worsening metabolic health, including insulin resistance
Left unaddressed, these impacts accumulate placing strain not only on individuals, but also on workplaces and the healthcare system.
Key Takeaways
- Sleep apnea is common, underdiagnosed, and treatable
- Wait times for specialist care remain a major barrier in Atlantic Canada
- Earlier access to testing can significantly shorten the path to care
- Direct-to-patient models can help close critical gaps in the system
The Resolve Approach: Direct Access—No Referral Required
At Resolve Sleep Health, Canadians can access sleep testing and support without a physician referral. Resolve supports individuals across Atlantic Canada and nationwide by helping them identify concerns early and move forward faster.
Direct access means:
- A simple clinical intake
- The most appropriate sleep test for individual symptoms—often completed at home
- Clear, clinician-guided results and next-step recommendations
Our Tailored Sleep Solutions
Resolve provides education, coordination, and ongoing support across a full range of evidence-based options, including:
- CPAP/APAP therapy education and long-term support
- Mask fitting and comfort troubleshooting
- Oral appliance coordination with qualified dental partners
- Positional therapy, sleep hygiene, and lifestyle coaching
- Relaxation and sleep support with supplements such as melatonin and magnesium
If you’re in Atlantic Canada, or anywhere in Canada, and suspect sleep apnea or another sleep disorder may be affecting your health or productivity, you don’t have to wait and wonder.
Learn more or get started at www.resolvesleep.com.