Why GPs Should Start Screening for Sleep Deprivation in Routine Check-Ups

Sleep disorders are often underdiagnosed but are increasingly linked to a wide range of chronic conditions—from cardiovascular disease and diabetes to depression and burnout. For General Practitioners, proactively screening for poor sleep quality in standard appointments could be a game-changer in early prevention and whole-patient care. Simple, quick tools like the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index or even targeted questions can help identify at-risk patients.

By integrating sleep-focused questions into their patient consultations, GPs can not only identify an often-ignored root issue, but also improve patient outcomes and satisfaction. The shift toward a more holistic view of health aligns with modern GP practice and patient expectations.

Source: Sleep Foundation https://www.sleepfoundation.org/sleep-deprivation