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Sleep Medicine in Saudi Arabia
Aljohara S Almeneessier1, Ahmed S BaHammam2
1Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Summary
Sleep medicine in Saudi Arabia has grown since the 1990s, facing challenges like limited specialists and funding. Addressing these is crucial for managing prevalent sleep disorders.
Area of Science:
- Sleep Medicine
- Public Health
- Medical Education
Background:
- Sleep medicine practice in Saudi Arabia emerged in the mid-to-late 1990s.
- The field has experienced growth, with an increasing number of specialists and established training programs.
- Sleep disorders are prevalent in Saudi Arabia, indicating a rising demand for specialized services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current status of sleep medicine practice and education in Saudi Arabia.
- To identify and discuss the barriers hindering the progress of sleep medicine in the country.
- To highlight future directions for developing sleep medicine services and training.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article.
- It synthesizes available data on sleep medicine in Saudi Arabia.
- The review discusses existing guidelines, training programs, and identified challenges.
Main Results:
- Two training programs offer structured certification in sleep medicine.
- Guidelines for accrediting specialists and technologists have been approved.
- Significant obstacles include a shortage of trained personnel, funding, and a lack of awareness among healthcare stakeholders.
Conclusions:
- Despite progress, sleep medicine in Saudi Arabia faces substantial barriers including workforce shortages and funding issues.
- Enhanced awareness and integration into the medical education system are vital for early detection and treatment of sleep disorders.
- Addressing these challenges is essential to meet the growing demand for sleep medicine services.
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