Patients in Cambridgeshire urged to return missing sleep study equipment
Over 1,000 patients could face delays due to device shortages in the region
Patients across Cambridgeshire are being urged to return missing NHS sleep study devices, which are essential for diagnosing sleep conditions and facilitating vital treatment plans.
The overnight sleep study equipment, also known as CSS devices, is provided to patients for single use and should be returned promptly the following day.
When these devices are not returned, it leads to cancelled appointments, delayed treatment decisions, and wasted NHS resources.
Plummeting device numbers
Currently, the NHS in Cambridgeshire has just 73 sleep study devices remaining, compared to an original stock of 220. The shortage has forced the reduction of appointments, potentially affecting over 1,000 patients per year.
In a statement shared alongside a photo of the missing equipment, the NHS acknowledged that while life sometimes gets in the way, returning these devices is crucial to helping other patients receive timely care.
How to return equipment
Patients or anyone who may have one of the devices at home are asked to return it promptly.
If there are any difficulties with returning the equipment, the NHS team is available to help during daytime hours at 01223 638526.
The NHS hopes that these efforts will restore the availability of appointments and ensure patients in Cambridgeshire receive the care they need without delays.