Obstructive Sleep Apnea Pathway

Talk with your healthcare provider about a referral

Most people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) don’t need a referral to see a specialist.

If you do need a referral because of your sleep apnea and your symptoms, you may be referred to one of the following:

Respirologist: A respirologist is a doctor who specializes in lung and breathing problems, including sleep apnea.
Sleep specialist: A sleep specialist is a doctor who focuses on sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless leg syndrome.
Respiratory therapist: A respiratory therapist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the diagnosis and management of breathing problems, including sleep apnea.
CPAP community provider: Local CPAP providers will help support you to buy a CPAP machine that is right for you. They will also help monitor your OSA long term with follow-up appointments.

obstructive sleep apnea pathway map

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Pathway

Download or print the full patient pathway (PDF) and summary (one-page PDF) to learn more about how to manage and treat obstructive sleep apnea.
Patient Pathway Summary

Current as of: May 5, 2025

Author: Patient Pathways Unit, Primary Care Alberta, and Alberta Health Services

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This material is not a substitute for the advice of a qualified health professional. This material is intended for general information only and is provided on an "as is", "where is" basis. Although reasonable efforts were made to confirm the accuracy of the information, Alberta Health Services does not make any representation or warranty, express, implied or statutory, as to the accuracy, reliability, completeness, applicability or fitness for a particular purpose of such information. Alberta Health Services expressly disclaims all liability for the use of these materials, and for any claims, actions, demands or suits arising from such use.

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