Facing the future: a call for higher education in sleep technology

The American Association of Sleep Technologists (AAST) is the national membership organization representing sleep technologists. The Board of Directors of the AAST recognizes that changes in the workforce will result in an increased need for technologists with a higher level of education. In order to meet the needs of members, the AAST has: (1) convened a summit of stakeholders to discuss the changing landscape for sleep technologists; (2) hosted an educational task force to provide ongoing communication and support; and (3) commissioned a survey of members, educators and employers to better define educational gaps and opportunities for sleep technologists. This report summarizes the results of the survey and provides a roadmap for future educational development. Demographic information highlights the diversity of those in the field of sleep technology. The majority of respondents agree that new technical skills will be needed to achieve competence in sleep technology in the near future, but also that clinical and communication skills will be critical in expanding the role of the sleep technologist in the sleep center. These findings led the AAST leadership to propose new directions for the AAST in serving the needs of its members and the field of sleep technology. This will include a continued focus on education, both basic and advanced, and development of diverse pathways for senior sleep technologists as well as those just entering the field.