Facilitating Access to Sleep apnoea Screening and Treatment in Spinal Cord Injury

About the Project

People and organisations involved

FASST-SCI (Facilitating Access to Sleep Apnoea Screening and Treatment in Spinal Cord Injury) is funded through a 2024 Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) Early to Mid-Career Researchers Grant. The project is a collaboration between The University of Melbourne, Victorian Spinal Cord Service (VSCS), Queensland Spinal Cord Injuries Service (QSCIS), Metro South Health, and The Hopkins Centre, Griffith University.

Dr Emily Bray is the Chief Investigator B (CIB) for the project. Professor Tim Geraghty and Professor Elizabeth Kendall are contributing their expertise as Associate Investigators (AIs).

Ms Leah Vegh, a specialist neuro-respiratory physiotherapist, is leading the day-to-day operation of the FASST-SCI clinic at Princess Alexandra Hospital.

Aim and objectives

The FASST-SCI project is evaluating a new model of care designed to improve the identification and management of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) among people living with spinal cord injury (SCI).

The model involves routine screening for OSA risk among people attending outpatient clinics at two state-wide SCI services in Queensland and Victoria. Individuals identified as being at risk will be referred to a specialist neuro-respiratory physiotherapist and supported by a respiratory physician to access ambulatory sleep investigations and appropriate treatment.

The primary aim of the study is to determine the feasibility of implementing the FASST-SCI model of care, while also exploring its potential health and economic benefits.

Expected outcomes and impact

Sleep apnoea affects an estimated four out of five people living with spinal cord injury and can have a significant impact on health, quality of life, and daily functioning. However, fewer than 20% of people with SCI and sleep apnoea currently receive appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

By improving access to evidence-based screening, assessment, and treatment, the FASST-SCI project aims to increase the identification and management of sleep apnoea in people with SCI. This has the potential to improve health outcomes, wellbeing, and participation in everyday activities, while supporting more equitable access to specialised care across Queensland and Australia.

Project status and timeframe

Participant recruitment for the FASST-SCI project commenced in May 2026. The FASST-SCI model of care will be implemented and piloted over a 12-month period.

Relevance to NIISQ Participants:

Facilitating access to best practice treatment, care and support across Queensland: OSA is the most prevalent sleep disorder in SCI. Over 80% of people with tetraplegia live with co-morbid OSA, which has been strongly associated with reduced quality of life. OSA can be effectively treated, yet less than 20% are diagnosed and treated for the disorder. The novel intervention for managing sleep apnoea has potential to improve health and quality of life after SCI.