Navigating sleep apnea in Scandinavia - a journey of contrasts

STUDY OBJECTIVES: Obstructive sleep apnea is a prevalent condition with substantial physical, psychological, and social burdens, yet limited research explores how patients experience sleep apnea-related services in the Scandinavian context. This study aims to examine lived experiences of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up services in Southeast Norway to identify opportunities for service improvement. METHODS: Using a Co‑Design approach, the study examined assessment and treatment services through participatory workshops and semi‑structured interviews with ten (10) participants. Reflexive thematic analysis, guided by Braun and Clarke's framework, supported an inductive development of themes, refined through participant feedback and comparison across data sources. RESULTS: Four themes emerged: (1) The CPAP machine - a lifeline and a toll, (2) Forsaken but not fallen - carrying the weight of one's own care, (3) Healthcare providers - obstacle and ally, and (4) Life on hold - the emotional and social impact. Differences in workshop and interview participants suggest more personalised services may influence experiences and outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Our analysis highlights the need for more tailored, responsive and coordinated services that reflect to the diverse physical and psychosocial realities of people living with obstructive sleep apnea. These exploratory findings will inform subsequent Co-Design work to improve service models.