​DOTCDLPHYSICAL.COM                 (970) 302-​2204

First, CPAP is not what people need.  Most people need AutoPAP.  This is a machine
that adjusts pressure as you sleep.  It allows for both inhalation and exhalation.  Breathing
out against a constant pressure can make normal breathing difficult.
 
Second, the there are three different pressure settings on an AutoPAP machine that the
user is going to need to experiment with: 1) minimum pressure 2) maximum pressure and
3) the ramp-up pressure and time of the ramp-up.  Most machines have adjustments for
your elevation above sea level.
 
Third, in a dry climate, humidity and air temp are also important.
 
Fourth, the mask is just as important as the machine.  Proper fit and comfort are critical to
success.
 
Fifth, making your setup work for you by arranging the tubing and supporting your head properly
are very important to good compliance (see attached photos of my home setup).  I use two pillows
(feather) and a buckwheat filled pillow under my neck.  This allows me to turn side to side without
knocking off my mask.  Tubing has a cloth sock to prevent cold air condensation and prevent snagging
on the sheets and pillows.  Tubing is also suspended so I can turn with getting tangled.
 
 Two machines that are very good AutoPAP devices, but their cost are quite different.  I
recommend either one.  Resmed S9 Autoset or Devilbiss IntelliPAP Autoadjust Flex

Hello Drivers;  New Rules!  Starting in March of 2014 the rules have changed about who can and cannot do the medical exam for commercial drivers.  Only physicians who have been trained, tested and certified can do the medical exam for you.  If you go to anyone else they will reject the medical card.  The list of approved physicians is on the government website dot.gov under National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners.  You can look it up by state.  You will have to fax, mail or take a copy of the medical examiners card to the DMV.  If you fail to do so they take your first born.  Well maybe not your first born but they can and will take away your right to drive a commercial vehicle. As if there is not enough stress with driving a commercial vehicle they have to add more.  Take good care of yourselves and do not believe everything you hear or read on the radio or the internet!  

Hello Drivers: I have finally found an organization that has low cost sleep apnea testing and it is approved by the DOT.  You can do the test in your truck or at home so no need to go into a clinic and stay over night.  The cost for the sleep apnea screening is $200.00.  The other clinics charge $1,200.00 and up so this is great news.  I am still looking for low cost, good quality C-Pap machines.  I will let you all know when I find them.  I found some for $1,300.00 but I am not sure if that is a good price.   I would also like to mention that if you are taking prescription medications please bring the medications in with you or write down the meds and dosage, the doctors name, address and phone #.  DON'T FORGET TO SEND, FAX OR TAKE IN PERSON A COPY OF YOUR MEDICAL CARD TO THE DMV.  IF YOU DO NOT THEY CAN AND WILL SUSPEND YOUR DRIVERS LICENSE. 

After January 30th 2012, you may present it in person to at allState DMV offices and some County DMV offices.

You may fax them to the CDL unit at 303-205-5709

Or you may mail it to the following address:

Colorado Department of Revenue

Attn: CDL Unit

1881 Pierce Street, Room 164

Lakewood CO 80214                                                                                                 Take good care of yourselves.  Dr.Patsy Lowe, DC