How to Become a Sleep Specialist
An overview of the education, training, and certifications for careers in sleep medicine — including physicians, sleep technologists, and allied professionals.
Physician Path (Sleep Medicine)
- Earn an MD/DO and complete residency in a primary specialty (e.g., Internal Medicine, Neurology, Psychiatry, Pediatrics, Otolaryngology, Family Medicine, Anesthesiology).
- Complete a 1‑year ACGME‑accredited Sleep Medicine Fellowship.
- Pass Sleep Medicine board certification (ABIM, ABPN, ABSM/ABMS member boards as applicable).
- Maintain certification via CME/MOC and clinical practice.
Sleep Technologist Path (Polysomnography)
- Complete an accredited polysomnography program or approved pathway (on‑the‑job + coursework).
- Earn a credential such as RPSGT (BRPT) or RST (ABSM) after required clinical experience and examination.
- Maintain credentials via continuing education (CSTE/BRPT or equivalent) and competency assessment.
Allied Roles
- Advanced Practice Providers (NP/PA) with sleep clinic experience and relevant CME.
- Respiratory Therapists (RRT) with sleep‑disordered breathing focus and CPAP/BPAP titration expertise.
- Behavioral Sleep Medicine (CBSM/DBSM) focusing on CBT‑I and circadian care.
Accreditation & Quality
- Clinics often pursue AASM or ACHC accreditation to standardize protocols and safety.
- Quality programs typically include validated screening, PAP management, and patient‑reported outcomes.
Getting Started
- Shadow in a sleep center; ask about pathways and competencies.
- Identify programs: ACGME fellowship (physicians) or CAAHEP/CoARC polysomnography/RT programs (technologists).
- Build foundational skills: cardiorespiratory physiology, neurophysiology, and sleep scoring (AASM manual).