Wake up refreshed thanks to the Tandem Protocol

Designed by Dr. Katéri Champagne, specialist in internal medicine, respirology, FRCPC, MSc Epidemiology, Diplomate of the American Board of Sleep Medicine.

Docteure Champagne is notably the author of recommandations du Collège des médecins sur l'apnée obstructive du sommeil.

We apply the latest findings from medical research. Why ?

Unlike most other sleep centers, we sell CPAP only after we have confirmed that the treatment works.

So it's in our interest that this treatment really works!

That's why we designed the Tandem Protocol©.

The tandem protocol is designed to offer you ongoing support, close collaboration with your GP and access to the latest technologies and treatment methods. Discover the key benefits below.

Medical collaboration

Because your health deserves a tailor-made approach, we work hand in hand with your doctor to offer you attentive, coordinated care.

Check that there are no contraindications to this approach

Full medical questionnaire

Measurement of oxygen saturation and rapid residual desaturation

Personalized recommendations to the attending physician/IPS

Modern equipment

We offer the latest technologies available on the market to maximize your comfort and improve treatment efficiency.

State-of-the-art equipment

CPAP selection based on the appropriate software for each patient

Try different masks to find your optimum comfort

Trusted brands such as ResMed, Philips and Fisher & Paykel

Ongoing support

Successful treatment is as much about coaching as it is about equipment. Our protocol is based on practices that promote commitment and lasting results.

Motivational interviewing

Therapeutic education

Proactive staff supervision and support

Progressive CPAP tuning over a 2–4 week period

Process

Each step of our process is designed to guide you in a personalized way towards an optimal solution for your sleep. In 2 to 4 weeks, you'll go through a progressive journey of adjustments, assessments and follow-up to achieve an effective treatment tailored to your specific needs.

01

First night

The equipment is installed and we explain how to use it, as well as good maintenance practices.

02

Between the first and third night

The respiratory therapist analyzes the data collected by modem during the nights of treatment and begins remote adjustments to the device parameters. A telephone appointment is scheduled within the first few days of the Tandem protocol.

03

The following nights

The respiratory therapist continues remote adjustments until optimal parameters are achieved within the limits of the current protocol. Depending on results, a nocturnal oxygenation test may be required.

04

Between the second and fourth week

The respiratory therapist announces the end of the Tandem protocol and presents you with your treatment options. A final prescription may be required.

05

After the fourth week

A report from the pulmonologist will be sent to your referring physician as soon as it is available. Your optimized, personalized treatment can now begin.

87%
of CPAP users report an improvement in sleep after 6 months of treatment.
The Tandem protocol is for you if...
"I have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and would like treatment."

You're looking for a treatment that's both comfortable and effective, with professional follow-up to maximize your chances of success.

"I've had a device for several years and I've never been comfortable."

Our team will analyze your test results, device adjustments, obstacles encountered, health status and persistent symptoms.

"My weight has gone up (or down) a lot."

If your weight has changed, your treatment must be adjusted.

"My health has changed a lot (for example, because of a heart problem, neurological problem or surgery)."

Sleep apnea is a chronic disease that evolves over time. If your health changes, your sleep treatment needs to be checked and, perhaps, adjusted.

"I've been using my device for over 5 years. I don't know if my treatment should be adjusted..."

As the years go by, your body changes. We recommend re-evaluating the fit of your device every 5 years. This will maximize its effectiveness.

I feel rested and energized. Thank you for the exemplary follow-up with your Tandem protocol.
Martin
I hadn't slept so well in years.
Dominique
You immediately feel at ease and in good hands.
Martine
The premises are modern and very pleasant.
David
The equipment is perfectly maintained, which really gives you confidence.
Stéphane
The team is incredibly competent.
Mona
Every question or concern was answered quickly and precisely.
Sébastien
I hadn't used my CPAP for years. Thanks to Côté Santé's support, I've managed to get it back into my routine.
Marc
Their in-depth questionnaire identified another sleep problem I'd never have suspected.
Jonathan
My test results were explained with exemplary clarity.
Sylvie
Follow-up during the Tandem protocol is a real plus.
Nadine
The Tandem protocol has been a real success for me.
Eric
Frequently asked questions

Find quick answers to the most frequently asked questions.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is characterized by a nocturnal breathing disorder caused by temporary obstructions in the upper respiratory tract (jaw, soft palate, uvula, tonsils, tonsils, tongue, throat). These episodes result in either a temporary cessation of breathing (apnea) or a marked decrease in respiratory flow (hypopnea). They can cause micro-awakenings, a drop in blood oxygen and increased respiratory effort, often (not always) accompanied by snoring.

What are the common symptoms of sleep apnea?
  • Excessive tiredness or a feeling of never being rested, even after a full night
  • Sleepiness during the day (e.g. falling asleep in front of the television, reading, or driving)
  • Morning headaches
  • Dry mouth or sore throat when you wake up
  • Concentration problems and memory loss
  • Irritability, bad mood, anxiety, or depressive symptoms
  • Decreased libido, hormonal disorders, or erection problems
  • Heart palpitations or irregular heartbeat (especially in women)
Do you need a doctor's prescription to do a sleep test?

Yes, a prescription from a doctor or IPS (Specialized Nurse Practitioner) is required. If you don't have one, we can refer you to an affiliated doctor.

What does the AHI (Apnea-Hypopnea Index) mean?

The IAH measures the number of respiratory arrests per hour of sleep:

  • Light: 5 to 15
  • Moderate: 15 to 30
  • Severe: 30 and over

Average number of events per hour corresponding either to a complete cessation of breathing (apnea) or to a marked decrease in respiratory amplitude (hypopnea), occurring despite maintained or increased respiratory effort.

Severity criteria

The severity of sleep apnea is assessed by taking into account all the symptoms experienced by the person (not just sleepiness during the day), as well as a number called the AHI (Apnea-Hypopnoea Index), which measures the number of abnormal respiratory events per hour.

Depending on the symptoms, the doctor determines how mild (5 to 15 events per hour), moderate (15 to 30 events per hour), or severe (30 events per hour), or severe (30 events per hour) the disease is.

Is untreated sleep apnea dangerous?

Yes Among other things, it can lead to:

  • High blood pressure
  • Heart attacks and strokes
  • Cardiac arrhythmias
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Metabolic disorders — obesity
  • Cognitive problems — memory problems
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Liver problems
  • Reduced quality of life