The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has accredited its 2,500th sleep center, setting an all-time high. That’s twice as many as 5 years ago and five times greater than a decade ago. The first center was accredited in 1977.

In addition, reflecting steadily increased demand for information and treatment, the Academy launched a website at www.sleepeducation.com, where sleep-starved Americans can search for the nearest AASM accredited member sleep centers.

“In general, far too many people accept sleep deprivation and sleepiness as a way of life. They see treatment of sleep illnesses as optional, like elective surgery. Our goal is to change attitudes and make medical treatment available,” said AASM President Sam Fleishman, MD.

“We believe more centers are applying for AASM accreditation as more patients are beginning to understand the consequences of sleep illness. They’re looking for help,” said Fleishman.

AASM 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.