Sleep disorders centers - Function, structure, and economics

Sleep is a required biologic function that outwardly appears to be a simple process, but actually is quite complex. There are over 80 recognized conditions that can affect sleep-and-waking behavior. The most common is insomnia, which can affect up to 30% of the general population. However, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the sleep disorder that usually prompts a patient's referral to a sleep disorders center. These centers offer comprehensive evaluation and treatment in a single location. Accreditation by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine offers assurance that certain standards related to medical care, facilities, equipment, and technician staffing have been met. Polysomnography, the most common sleep laboratory procedure, is usually performed to determine if a person has OSA. Although evaluation and treatment in a sleep disorders center are expensive, most insurance carriers will reimburse for polysomnography. Sleep disorders centers are costly to develop and maintain, but can be economically viable and beneficial to patients.