Why Choose an AASM-Accredited Sleep Center?

The Sleep Center at the University of Vermont Medical Center is accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). The AASM is the national accrediting body for sleep centers and sleep laboratories which promotes the highest quality of medical care for people with sleep problems.

AASM accreditation is the gold standard by which the medical community and the public can evaluate the services provided by a sleep center or lab. The standards for accreditation ensure that sleep medicine providers display and maintain proficiency in areas such as testing procedures and policies, patient safety and follow-up, and physician and staff training. More information can be found at www.aasmnet.org.

What to Expect

Consultation

With more than 70 documented sleep disorders, it's critical that the sleep center specialists at The UVM Medical Center get as much information about your sleep problem as possible in order to provide you with the best possible recommendations and care.

During a 40-60 minute consultation we will discuss your sleep problem, your medical history and perform a thorough physical examination. If you have a partner, and it is possible for them to attend, they can be helpful in answering questions about your sleep habits. This consultation will help us determine if an overnight sleep study or other medical tests are necessary.

We will mail you a packet before your consultation. We ask that you fill this out and have it ready for your appointment. Please also bring recent medical records, including Lab work, X-rays.

Sleep Study

The evaluation of some sleep problems may require an overnight stay for a comprehensive sleep study. Sleep studies are used to monitor brain activity, eye movements, muscle tone, heart rate and rhythm, and breathing pattern while you sleep. The study involves the noninvasive use of electrodes and sensors secured with tape or paste. The procedure is painless and allows for free movement in bed during the night.

The sleep study rooms at the following locations:

  • The UVM Medical Center Sleep Lab is located at the Residence Inn by Marriott, 71 Rathe Road, Colchester. View on Google Maps.
  • We also conduct sleep studies at our Sleep Lab on Patrick 5 at the Main Campus. View on Google Maps.

The study is performed in a comfortable, private room equipped with a full or king-sized bed. Rooms are sound and light attenuated to ensure a tranquil and quiet environment. A handicapped accessible restroom and shower facility are available.

About Our Staff

The Sleep Center at The UVM Medical Center is staffed by technicians and registered technologists who are specially trained in the use of sophisticated instrumentation and the identification of sleep/wake pathological events. Our technicians monitor one or two patients per night, assuring that each patient receives excellent care and personal attention. Under certain circumstances, the technician may intervene during the night to apply certain treatments such as Supplemental Oxygen or Continuous Positive Airway Pressure for Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Other Tests

Some patients may also undergo an additional test, performed during the day following the sleep test, called a Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT). The MSLT is used to test daytime sleepiness. The MSLT involves five tests, or nap periods, administered at two hour intervals. During each nap period, the patient is given a 20-minute opportunity to fall asleep. The amount of time it takes to fall asleep on each nap, called the sleep latency, is measured and evaluated by your physician at The UVM Medical Center sleep program to determine if treatment is necessary. 

Another test, called a Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT), may also be performed for patients involved in the public transportation industry such as over-the-road truck drivers and airline pilots. The MWT involves four 40-minute test periods administered at two-hour intervals to assess the patient's ability to remain awake in a dimly lit room.

Follow-up

Once we have analyzed your sleep data and interpreted the results, we will schedule a follow-up appointment. During this appointment, your Sleep Center physician will explain the cause of the problem and develop a comprehensive medical plan to get the best result possible for you. This plan will be thoroughly discussed with you and a written copy will be provided to you to take home. Appropriate teaching materials will also be provided. We make a concerted effort to teach you everything you need to know to resolve your sleep problem.