Between ten and thirty people usually attend the Newcomers Meeting.  We often cover topics such as: masks, the various types of machines, the importance of a heated humidifier, and the value of a chin strap.  Often we point out that sleep apnea is a chronic disorder.  Thus it demands the knowledge, action, and persistence of the patient to make the treatment comfortable and effective.  The main resources for the paitent are the sleep doctor and the Durable Medical Equipment (DME) provider.

The purpose of the meeting is to provide a place for you to ask questions, to learn from other patients' experience, and to see that many others are struggling with similar problems. Many times people learn useful tips from other patients, and get a better resolve to persist in making their treatment more comfortable and effective. We do not have a doctor in attendance, so with some questions we simply have to suggest ways for you to try to obtain an answer. We do, however, usually have a sleep technologist present who is very helpful. And there is a doctor present at the following General Meeting, where unanswered questions can often be asked.