So You Need a Sleep Doctor—How to Choose One

If you’ve received a referral to a sleep specialist from your primary physician, that’s great. You might want to have more than one to choose from. Plus it’s always good to know what to consider when choosing a sleep doctor.

First, go to the right places to find a sleep doctor.

There are a number of reputable associations where you can find doctors in your area. Consider any of these when looking for a certified sleep doctor:

• American Board of Sleep Medicine – This is the medical board that certifies doctors in sleep medicine. Their website includes a searchable list of certified sleep specialists by state or name.
• American Academy of Sleep Medicine – This is an organization of doctors and researchers who are dedicated to the advancement of sleep medicine. You can find a list of accredited sleep centers at their website.
• Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine – A growing number of dentists are interested in treating sleep disorder with oral appliances. You can search a directory of sleep dentists online at their website.

Second, check credentials.

A sleep doctor will be certified as a sleep specialist and will have had years of education including medical school, a medical residency and a fellowship in sleep medicine. Sleep doctors may also have additional training in other specialties including pulmonary medicine, neurology, psychiatry, ear-nose-throat medicine, family medicine, pediatrics and internal medicine.

You may find a physician who practices in one or more of these specialties but dabbles in sleep medicine, even without formal certification. It is important to find a sleep doctor who is certified and who has credentials from the American Board of Medical Specialties, which is a nonprofit organization that is the gold standard in physician certification. Its website has a specific section where consumers may look up specific physicians. Finding your physician on this website implies that he or she’s background has been verified and that they have passed a sleep medicine board examination. More than likely your sleep doctor will be affiliated with a sleep clinic or center. Ensure that the clinic is accredited from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

You’ve found a couple of reputable sleep doctors. Now what?

Match the most appropriate sleep doctor to your needs. This will help you narrow your choices. Get answers to questions such as:

• How will your sleep problem be evaluated? What testing will be required?
• Is the physician and his or her sleep clinic able to provide you with a thorough and appropriate evaluation?
• What are the costs associated with the testing?
• Will you need a sleep study?
• What are the various kinds of treatments the doctor may prescribe?
• How long will the doctor work with you to find the right solution for you?
• Do you like the doctor?

 Good luck!