American Academy of Sleep Medicine

Study suggests that zaleplon does not aid CPAP adherence

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study suggests that a single dose of zaleplon at the start of CPAP titration during split-night polysomnography does not result in superior CPAP adherence or improved symptoms at one month. Published in the May 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, the study involved 134 patients newly diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea.

Questionnaire is a valid screening tool for RBD in older adults, study reports

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the May 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine evaluated the Mayo Sleep Questionnaire (MSQ) to screen for REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) in older adults. The responses of subjects' bed partners were compared with the findings of polysomnography.

Study links sleep apnea to risk of developing depression

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the May 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine reports that people with obstructive sleep apnea have a higher risk of developing depressive disorder. Participants with OSA were two times more likely than those without OSA to develop depressive disorder within a year (hazard ratio = 2.18).

Supplement of the journal Nature explores sleep

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A May 23 supplement of the journal Nature examines how researchers are defining the various functions of sleep, from how we learn to the regulation of metabolism and immunity.

FDA advisory panel recommends approval of suvorexant for insomnia

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

On Wednesday, May 22, the FDA Peripheral and Central Nervous System Drugs Advisory Committee discussed a new drug application for suvorexant tablets (NDA #204569), which was submitted by Merck Sharp and Dohme Corp., Worldwide Regulatory Group.

HHS unveils $1B program to fund second round of health care innovation awards

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The Health and Human Services (HHS) Department announced that it will fund a second round of grants for health care innovation projects designed to lower costs and improve care delivery and outcomes.

Survey finds most employers plan to keep full-time workers' health benefits

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

According to an International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans survey, most employers expect to continue providing full-time workers with health insurance benefits after the Affordable Care Act is fully implemented.

Most physicians believe health IT will drive up costs

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Most physicians think that the use of health IT systems ultimately will result in higher costs, according to a report from the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions.

More physicians adopting new business models, practice techniques because of changing health care system

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Kaiser Health News reports that more doctors are experimenting with new business models and practice techniques as they face falling reimbursement rates and rising demands from the federal government and insurers to boost quality and lower costs.

AASM actions to ensure sleep services are covered in state exchanges

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The creation of the new state exchanges presents a number of potential opportunities and challenges for the AASM. In the last few months, the AASM has contacted various stakeholders to ensure sleep services are covered in each state exchange.

AASM requesting members complete private payer preauthorization survey

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Recently private payers have changed coverage policies for sleep services to include stipulations for utilization management review and preauthorization. These changing requirements have created concern among sleep medicine physicians as these implemented preauthorization policies result in increased administrative work associated with ordering sleep studies.

ISR to switch to AASM Scoring Manual v2.0 rules June 1

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In October 2012, the AASM published its first major update to the AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events: Rules Terminology and Technical Specifications. In preparation for the effective compliance date of October 1, 2013, AASM Inter-scorer Reliability will begin requiring use of the scoring rules found in the AASM Scoring Manual Version 2.0.

SLEEP 2013 Postgraduate Courses available

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Missed your chance to register for SLEEP 2013 Postgraduate Courses? We have you covered! Visit the SLEEP 2013 registration desk on Saturday, June 1st to purchase your course tickets.

Apply for the 2013 ASMF Humanitarian Projects Award

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) is pleased to announce the 2013 cycle of the Humanitarian Projects Award. The primary objective of this award is to provide support to projects that address sleep problems in disadvantaged populations.

Study shows that insomnia may cause dysfunction in emotional brain circuitry

Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study provides neurobiological evidence for dysfunction in the neural circuitry underlying emotion regulation in people with insomnia, which may have implications for the risk relationship between insomnia and depression.

Parent and teacher support protects teens from sleep problems and depression

Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study suggests that disturbed sleep in adolescents is associated with more symptoms of depression and greater uncertainly about future success. However, perceived support and acceptance from parents and teachers appears to have a protective effect.

Hypnogram: Sleep study coverage policies

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In recent months, I’ve received numerous comments from members regarding changes to their regional insurance coverage policies, which typically have involved new preauthorization requirements and utilization management review. While similar billing and reimbursement procedures have been common in other medical specialties for many years, their implementation for sleep study coverage has been a dramatic change for sleep physicians

AASM demands that MVP contract with qualified local OCST providers

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In June 2012, New York payer MVP announced a new Sleep Study Benefit program that requires preauthorization for sleep testing and encourages the use of out of center sleep testing (OCST) in many patients. Recently, MVP announced a revision to its medical policy for OSA.

New Learning Modules: Emerging Clinical and Business Trends

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Were you not able to attend the AASM Winter course, Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine, in February? No problem! We have all 22 lectures, case-based discussions and pro/con debates in our easy-to-access Online Learning Module format.

2013 Board Review Course and Prep Materials

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Pre-registration for SLEEP 2013 ends May 20

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

May 20, 2013 is the last day for you to pre-register for SLEEP 2013. Individuals wanting to register after this date must register on site, will not have access to download postgraduate course materials, may experience long lines and will pay a registration fee that is $25 more than the pre-registration rate.

Latest sleep research to be presented June 2 – 5 at annual meeting in Baltimore

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep clinicians and scientists from around the world will discuss current practices in sleep medicine and the latest findings in sleep research at SLEEP 2013, the 27th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), which will be held June 2-5 at the Baltimore Convention Center.

Study links diet with daytime sleepiness and alertness in healthy adults

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study suggests that your level of sleepiness or alertness during the day may be related to the type of food that you eat, reports Discovery News.

Study shows that bedtime regularity predicts CPAP compliance

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study suggests that regularity of bedtime prior to initiation of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is an important factor that may influence treatment compliance in adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

NHLBI announces intent to publish FOA for novel point-of-care technology

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute posted a notice (NOT-HL-13-177) of its intent to publish a new Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) that will encourage applications for research in support of the development of novel point-of-care (POC) and implementation of existing technologies specifically for practical clinical applications that can guide diagnostic and therapeutic efforts in the heart, lung, blood, and sleep clinical research settings.

Senators Baucus and Hatch ask for advice on replacing SGR

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In a recent letter to health letter to health care providers, Senators Max Baucus (D-Mont.) and Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) sought input on how to permanently replace the sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula. Congress routinely has passed legislation to delay cuts called for by the SGR, but physicians face substantial reductions in their Medicare reimbursements each time the "doc fix" expires. The most recent doc fix delayed the cuts until January 1, 2014, at which time physicians face about a 25% reduction to Medicare reimbursement rates.

Poll finds half of small businesses believe ACA will negatively affect their business

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

According to a new Gallup poll, forty-eight percent of small businesses believe that the Affordable Care Act will negatively affect their business. The poll found that just 9% of employers said the law would be good for their businesses.

Health and Human Services announces $150M exchange enrollment initiative

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced a $150 million initiative aimed at helping community health centers enroll uninsured patients in the Affordable Care Act's health insurance exchanges, which open for enrollment on October 1, 2013.

Congratulations New Fellow Members of the AASM!

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor which recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field. We are pleased to welcome new Fellow Members.

Attend the 2013 AASM General Membership Meeting and Section Meetings

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

All AASM members are invited to attend the General Membership Meeting at SLEEP 2013 on Monday, June 3, from 12:30 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. in Room 343 of the Baltimore Convention Center. President Samuel Fleishman, MD, will discuss current AASM initiatives and review the accomplishments of the past year, and President-Elect Safwan Badr, MD, will share his vision for the year ahead.

ASMF Award recipients announced

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The ASMF is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2013 Bridge to K and 2013 Physician Scientist Training Awards. The Bridge to K provides 'bridge funding' to promising sleep scientists who have applied for a K grant from NIH and need additional time and resources to obtain K grants. The Physician Scientist Training Award supports research training for physicians who wish to pursue careers as physician scientists in sleep medicine.

AASM congratulates the 2013 Young Investigator Award recipient

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Each year the AASM recognizes the outstanding efforts of a young investigator in the field of sleep research with the Young Investigator Award. The AASM congratulates the recipient of the 2013 AASM Young Investigator Award: Camilla M. Hoyos, PhD, MPH, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research in Sydney, Australia, for the abstract, “Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) improves Hyposomatotropism in Men with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): a randomized sham-controlled 12 week study.”

Congratulations to the recipients of the 2013 AASM Awards

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Each year the AASM Awards recognize several leaders in sleep medicine who have made significant contributions to both the AASM and the sleep field.

More sleep may decrease the risk of suicide in people with insomnia

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study found a relationship between sleep duration and suicidal thoughts in people with insomnia.

NIH announces funding opportunity for obesity research

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has issued a funding opportunity announcement (PA-12-179) for Exploratory/Developmental Clinical Research Grants in Obesity (R21).

Aetna lowers first-year estimates for exchange enrollment

Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Aetna CEO Mark Bertolini stated that the company has reduced its first-year estimates for how many individuals it expects to enroll in health insurance exchanges. Mr. Bertolini said, "The process required to sign up, to get the subsidies, is going to take some time." He added, "I think this is a two-year ramp to get the individual exchanges up to a level where customers are going to feel appropriate signing up."

Affordable Care Act update on coverage, employers & insurers

Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Health experts say the amount of money that states spend on consumer assistance during the first year of the ACA's insurance exchanges could have a "major impact" on the number of residents who obtain health coverage.

IRS proposed rule outlines tax credits, coverage requirements for employers

Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) unveiled draft rules outlining the subsidies that will help residents purchase health coverage through the health insurance exchanges created by the Affordable Care Act. Individuals could receive tax credits if they are not eligible for "affordable coverage" through an employer-sponsored plan that covers less than 60% of the costs.

HHS publicizes data on hospital charges

Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

On May 8, the department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced an unprecedented initiative to provide consumers with nationwide data on what hospitals charge. HHS explained that by providing this data it hopes that “business and consumers alike can use these data to drive decision-making and reward cost-effective provision of care. In addition to making the data available, HHS is also planning to fund data centers to review and publicize reimbursement data in the future.

New items added to the AASM Closeout Sale

Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

New online learning modules have been added to the AASM Closeout Sale on the Online Store. Shop these amazing deals on great products while they last! These learning modules are only $15 and come with 1-year access. Hurry! These online learning modules will be available for purchase only until the end of May. Visit the AASM Closeout Sale today!

2013 Board Review Course and prep materials

Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

On October 16, 2013, the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABIM) will administer the sleep medicine certification examination, will you be prepared? As the leader in sleep medicine education, the AASM has the essential Sleep Medicine Board Review materials and courses to prepare you for success! Registration is open for the Sleep Medicine Board Review Course on August 1-4, 2013 in Denver, CO and the Sleep Medicine Exam Cram Courses on September 28 and September 29 in Darien, IL.

SLEEP 2013 pre-registration ending soon; purchase your welcome reception tickets

Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

May 20, 2013 is the last day for you to pre-register for SLEEP 2013. Individuals wanting to register after this date must register on site, will not have access to download postgraduate course books, may experience long lines and will pay a registration fee that is $25 more than the pre-registration rate.

Study links diet with daytime sleepiness and alertness in healthy adults

Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study suggests that your level of sleepiness or alertness during the day may be related to the type of food that you eat.

Study shows that bedtime regularity predicts CPAP compliance

Tue, 07 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM invites all members to the AASM Political Action Committee (AASM PAC) Breakfast at SLEEP 2013

Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

This informative and educational meeting is a great opportunity to learn about how the AASM PAC is an essential part of our advocacy efforts. As our members know, health care is at a critical juncture as medicine is shifting towards outcomes based medicine and 32 million people will enter the system because of the Affordable Care Act.

Short sleep duration and sleep apnea linked to increased abdominal fat

Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study reports that a habitual short sleep duration of less than five hours and obstructive sleep apnea are independently associated with abdominal visceral fat in Korean adults.

Study links obstructive sleep apnea to brain white matter change

Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

People with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea are two times more likely to have brain white matter change even after adjustment for hypertension, reports a study in the May issue of SLEEP.

Long sleep duration is associated with increased risk of colorectal cancer

Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the May issue of Sleep is the first to report a significant positive association between long sleep duration and the development of colorectal cancer, especially among individuals who are overweight or snore regularly.

Report finds increase in emergency department visits related to zolpidem

Thu, 02 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A report from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicates that the number of emergency department visits involving adverse reactions to the sleep medication zolpidem rose nearly 220 percent from 2005 to 2010.

Report finds that the government could save federal dollars by using integrated care

Wed, 01 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A report from the Brookings Institution found that the federal government could save $300 billion over a decade and as much as $1 trillion over two decades by further using integrated care models and shifting away from fee-for-service payment systems.

Implementation and promotion of Affordable Care Act still faces significant challenges

Wed, 01 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The New York Times reports that the Obama administration still faces significant challenges implementing and promoting the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Another challenge involves businesses who may delay hiring or shift some of their full-time employees to part-time jobs to avoid the requirement that businesses with 50 or more full-time workers offer affordable coverage or pay a penalty.

ISR to switch to AASM Scoring Manual v2.0 (2012) in June

Wed, 01 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In October 2012, the AASM published its first major update to the AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events: Rules Terminology and Technical Specifications.

2013 Board Review Course and prep materials

Wed, 01 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

On October 16, 2013, the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABIM) will administer the sleep medicine certification examination, will you be prepared?

SLEEP 2013: Many ticketed sessions sold-out; Pre-registration ending soon

Wed, 01 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Don't miss your opportunity to attend add-on sessions like Postgraduate Courses and Lunch Debates. The Meet the Professor Sessions are nearly sold-out.

Sleep duration associated with higher colorectal cancer risk

Wed, 01 May 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study is the first to report a significant positive association between long sleep duration and the development of colorectal cancer, especially among individuals who are overweight or snore regularly. The results raise the possibility that obstructive sleep apnea may contribute to cancer risk.

Slower health care spending largely attributed to weak economy

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The recession and the slow recovery from it are the major driving forces behind a recent slowdown in health care spending, while higher patient cost-sharing and other changes to the health system play a smaller role, according to a study released Monday by the Kaiser Family Foundation and the Altarum Institute.

Senate leader states concern about ACA implementation

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

During a Senate Finance hearing, Chair Max Baucus (D-Mont.) warned Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius that her department has not adequately informed the public and small businesses about the Affordable Care Act, which he stated could result in a "train wreck" during its implementation. The Senator cited a March Kaiser Family Foundation poll that found large percentages of respondents believe inaccurate information regarding the ACA's provisions. In the poll, sixty-seven percent of uninsured respondents under age 65 and 68% of respondents with annual household incomes under $40,000 said they have an inadequate understanding of the law.

New coding education program from the AASM

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Coding Education Program (A-CEP) is a comprehensive online coding program for sleep medicine that makes learning coding and billing basics easy for office staff and technologists.

Board Review Course registration now open

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In 2011, only 64 percent of the individuals who took the sleep medicine exam passed. As the leader in sleep medicine education, the AASM has the essential Sleep Medicine Board Review materials and courses to prepare you for success!

Have you visited the SLEEP 2013 Baltimore page?

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

This year’s home to SLEEP 2013 is the Baltimore Convention Center. Located in the Inner Harbor neighborhood, the Baltimore Convention Center is only steps away from a variety of fine dining, cultural experiences, shopping, historical landmarks and exciting nightlife. While you are in town for SLEEP 2013, we encourage you to visit the many attractions that Baltimore has to offer. Visit our Baltimore page at the SLEEP 2013 website to start planning your visit today!

Apply for the ASMF Strategic Research Award

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) is pleased to announce the 2013 Strategic Research Award. This request for proposals (RFP) is aimed at soliciting high quality grant proposals that would propose research aimed at improving quality of health care delivery in the field of sleep medicine.

AASM demands changes to Cigna’s sleep testing policy

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Recently, Cigna Healthcare announced an update to its national medical policy for sleep testing. The new policy, which took effect February 15, 2013 requires preauthorization for all sleep related services.

Congratulations New Fellow Members of the AASM!

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor which recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field. We are pleased to welcome the following new Fellow Members.

Panel proposes high priority future research needs for OSA diagnosis and treatment

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The April 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine includes a special article proposing future research needs related to the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.

Study finds improved neurobehavioral performance during the wake maintenance zone

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study found that performance was significantly improved, despite a longer time awake, in the wake maintenance zone, a three-hour window of reduced sleep propensity that occurs shortly before the onset of melatonin secretion.

Sleep apnea severity is higher in African-American men

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the April 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine suggests that obstructive sleep apnea severity is higher in African-American men than Caucasian men in certain age ranges, even after controlling for body mass index (BMI).

FDA selects narcolepsy as one disease area for patient-focused drug development

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In a statement published in the Federal Register on April 11, the Food and Drug Administration announced that narcolepsy was selected as one of the disease areas to be addressed during the first three years of Patient-Focused Drug Development.

SLEEP 2013 abstract book now online

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The SLEEP abstract supplement for SLEEP 2013, the 27th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), is available for download on the Journal SLEEP website and at www.sleepmeeting.org. This comprehensive resource contains the research abstracts that will be presented at SLEEP 2013 in Baltimore in June.

Free shipping on all orders over $200

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM now offers FREE shipping on all orders over $200; no promo code required! Just fill your cart to $200 and we will take care of the shipping cost.

Sleep Medicine Board Review Course and Cram Courses

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In 2011, only 64% of the individuals who took the sleep medicine exam passed. As the leader in sleep medicine education, the AASM has the essential Sleep Medicine Board Review courses to prepare you for success! Register today to take part in the Sleep Medicine Board Review Course; a two-and-a-half-day comprehensive review of sleep medicine which will take place at the Sheraton Denver Downtown Hotel in Denver, Colorado from August 2-4, 2013.

Purchase your Take Me Out to the Ballgame welcome reception tickets today

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Don’t strike out! Touch base with attendees while supporting future sleep research on June 2, 2013 from 6:00pm - 7:30pm at the Hilton Baltimore Hotel.

Editorial explores the changing face of sleep medicine

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In the April 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, an editorial by Stuart Quan, MD, and Lawrence Epstein, MD, discusses the implications of the recent closing of Sleep HealthCenters, one of the largest sleep medicine practices in the country.

Hypnogram: Election Results

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

After becoming a student member in 1994, my level of involvement in the AASM steadily increased as I volunteered on committees, served on the Board of Directors, and was elected as president. This experience has greatly contributed to my personal and professional growth, giving me the pleasure of working closely with likeminded colleagues to help advance the field of sleep medicine.

CMS announces round 2 and National Mail Order competitive bid contracts

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

On April 9 the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced contract suppliers for the Round 2 and National Mail Order programs of the Medicare Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics and Supplies (DMEPOS) Competitive Bidding Program.

Updated Humana policy identifies PAP NAP studies as not separately reimbursable

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Humana has published an updated coverage determination for adult sleep studies. The new policy details the payer’s stance on coverage of PAP NAPs - the daytime, abbreviated cardio-respiratory sleep studies to acclimated patients to positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy.

HHS official touts progress on ACA's federal exchange

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Director Gary Cohen of the Health and Human Services (HHS) Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight (CCIIO) said that HHS is making progress on the logistical and technological aspects of creating a federal insurance exchange under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). CCIIO is charged with helping implement many of the provisions in the ACA and they work closely with governors, state insurance commissioners, consumers, and other stakeholders on this initiative. About 900 insurers have already indicated their interest to market their plans in the online marketplace.

Analysis of President Obama's budget proposal

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

As reported last week, President Obama released his $3.77 trillion budget proposal for fiscal year 2014, which includes $400 billion in spending cuts to health care and would raise taxes on higher-income individuals.

Study shows severity of sleep apnea is influenced by race

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study suggests that obstructive sleep apnea severity is higher in African-American men in certain age ranges, even after controlling for body mass index (BMI).

CDC data show that self-reported hypertension is on the rise

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

On April 5 the CDC reported that from 2005 to 2009, the prevalence of self-reported hypertension among U.S. adults increased from 25.8 to 28.3 percent. Among those with self-reported hypertension, use of antihypertensive medications increased from 61.1 to 62.6 percent.

More sleep is associated with reduced BMI in teens

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A study of teens published online in Pediatrics on April 8 found that each additional hour of sleep was associated with a reduced body mass index (BMI), especially for teens with higher BMIs. Increasing sleep from 7.5 to 10.0 hours per day at age 18 predicted a reduction in the proportion of overweight adolescents by 4 percent.

President unveils $3.77 trillion budget proposal

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

This week President Obama released his $3.77 trillion budget proposal for fiscal year 2014, which includes $400 billion in spending cuts to health care and would raise taxes on higher-income individuals.

House Republicans release plan to permanently repeal SGR

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Republican leaders recently released an updated draft plan to permanently repeal and replace the sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula, which sets the Medicare physician payment rates. The draft was developed by House Energy and Commerce Committee Chair Fred Upton (R-Mich.), Ways and Means Committee Chair Dave Camp (R-Mich.) and the committees' health subcommittee chairs, Reps. Kevin Brady (R-Texas) and Joe Pitts (R-Pa.).

Celebrate National Library Week April 14-20 with AASM children's books

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Show your support for your community by donating the AASM children’s books: I See the Animals Sleeping and The Animals Sleep to local school libraries. Children will learn the importance of sleep for both themselves and animals. Purchase these beautifully illustrated books now in order to receive them for National Library week. Instant discounts for bulk quantity purchases, order today!

Sleep Medicine Board Review Course and Cram Courses

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2013 to feature new sessions on clinical, research and business trends

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The SLEEP Annual Meeting has long been recognized as the leading meeting for sleep medicine and sleep research professionals from around the world. Featuring the latest developments in research, clinical and business trends in sleep medicine, the meeting serves as an ideal opportunity for sleep medicine professionals to learn about the newest advances in this multi-disciplinary field.

Survey finds Affordable Care Act's potential impact concerns small business executives

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's latest small-business survey, the Affordable Care Act and its potential effect on employee coverage costs and hiring trends is the top concern among a vast majority of U.S. small businesses.

HHS proposes rule clarifying navigator role for federal exchanges

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Health and Human Services (HHS) released a proposed rule defining the eligibility, standards and training of “navigators,” who are responsible for providing guidance to people enrolling in federal health exchanges under the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Hypnogram: OCST supply and demand

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In recent months many of us have been learning new economic lessons about supply and demand. Insurers in some regions of the country have dramatically increased the demand for out of center sleep testing (OCST). As a result, sleep centers are faced with the challenge of supplying OCST services to meet this demand.

ASMF announces 2013 High School Video Contest

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation is issuing a nationwide creative challenge to young filmmakers: Tell a sleep story to help us shine a light on the effects of sleep problems. The contest is open to high school students in grades 9-12. Judges will pick the three best videos that tell a story about the importance of sleep. Winners will receive up to $1,000 to split with their school. The best videos will be used to educate the public about sleep.

NSF issues a call for research symposium proposals

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The National Sleep Foundation seeks proposals to organize and conduct a research symposium to advance the understanding of sleep. NSF will lend its name and resources to symposia with the greatest potential for advancing public health as related to sleep. View the Call for Research Symposium Proposals online. Proposals are due May 31, 2013.

Blog post examines history and future of sleep medicine

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

As part of the Huffington Post’s ongoing coverage of sleep news, a recent blog post by Stanford Center for Sleep Sciences and Medicine director Emmaunel Mignot, MD, PhD, explored the rapid growth of sleep medicine. Dr. Mignot noted that, like many other areas of medicine, sleep medicine is experiencing a shift from a testing and diagnosis paradigm to a focus on effective treatment. He concluded that, “The field is young and inventive, and we believe patients will be better served at the end.”

Study in SLEEP links OSA to behavioral and learning problems in children

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the April issue of SLEEP found that children with sleep apnea have a higher risk of behavioral, adaptive and learning problems. Sleep-disordered breathing doubled and tripled the odds of threshold scores on most assessments, reported MedPage Today. Children with persistent sleep apnea also were seven times more likely to have parent-reported learning problems and three times more likely to have school grades of C or lower, noted UPI.

Loophole could allow insurers to avoid ACA requirements through 2014

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Some health insurers are planning to let residents renew their current coverage to avoid new requirements under the Affordable Care Act, a move that could temporarily derail efforts to reform the insurance market, the Los Angeles Times reports.

Subsidies individuals receive in ACA carries little-known repayment clause

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

According to the AP/Sacramento Bee, millions of residents who will obtain federal subsidies to offset the cost of health insurance through the ACA's insurance exchanges could be subject to additional taxes if they do not accurately project their income,.

Officials behind past local, state efforts highlight future challenges for state exchanges

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Officials behind previous local and state efforts to enroll uninsured individuals in health coverage say that such individuals often are reluctant to purchase coverage and that outreach efforts take longer than expected, which could foreshadow similar struggles for the health insurance exchanges under the Affordable Care Act.

White House defends ACA after remarks about possible increase in consumers' health care costs

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The Obama reiterated that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is helping to reduce health care costs even after Health and Human Service (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius stated that some newly insured residents could experience higher health costs in the coming years.

Support your local school libraries by donating AASM children’s books

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

April is School Library Month, a celebration of school librarians and their programs by the American Association of School Librarians. Every year, school librarians are encouraged to create activities to help their school and local community celebrate the essential role that strong school library programs play in a student's educational career.

Prepare for the ABMS exam with the Sleep Medicine Board Review Course

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Planning on taking the 2013 ABMS exam in sleep medicine? Prepare yourself by studying with an expert faculty of basic researchers, academicians and clinicians at the forefront of the field at this year’s Sleep Medicine Board Review Course.

SLEEP 2013 hotels are quickly filling-up

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Only two weeks remain to receive SLEEP 2013 early bird pricing and the official SLEEP 2013 hotels are selling out quickly! With the Hilton Baltimore and the Sheraton Inner Harbor Hotels already sold-out and three additional hotels nearly sold-out, we encourage all members to register early and book your hotel room today to reserve your spot at the largest meeting dedicated solely to sleep medicine and sleep research.

Children with sleep apnea have higher risk of behavioral, adaptive and learning problems

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study found that obstructive sleep apnea, a common form of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), is associated with increased rates of ADHD-like behavioral problems in children as well as other adaptive and learning problems. The five-year study, which appears in the April issue of the journal SLEEP, utilized data from a longitudinal cohort, the Tucson Children's Assessment of Sleep Apnea Study (TuCASA).

Hypopnea scoring: Meeting requirements of payers and the AASM Scoring Manual

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In October 2012 the AASM published the AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications Version 2.0. All AASM accredited sleep centers will be required to follow the new manual by October 1, 2013.

Wall Street Journal examines pediatric sleep testing

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

On Tuesday, March 26, an article in the print and online editions of the Wall Street Journal highlighted the importance of overnight sleep testing for children with suspected sleep apnea.

Browse employment opportunities on AASM Job Board

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Job Board is a useful tool to help you find new employment opportunities in sleep related fields. The job board on the AASM website features numerous positions in sleep for physicians, technologists and managers. AASM members and non-members can browse online listings and apply for jobs free of charge. It is quick and easy for employers to post a job opening on the AASM Job Board; AASM members receive a discount on each classified ad.

Businesses might look to temporary-staffing agencies to avoid ACA health coverage requirements

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Some businesses might begin hiring more workers through temporary-staffing agencies to avoid providing health insurance under the Affordable Care Act, the Washington Post reports.

Majority of voters say they do not have enough information to understand ACA

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

According to the Kaiser Family Foundation's March tracking poll, nearly six in 10 U.S. residents feel they do not have enough information to understand the Affordable Care Act (ACA)and how it will affect them.

Buy the print version of the AASM Scoring Manual today

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications Version 2.0 print edition is now available for purchase. The AASM Scoring Manual is now offered as a print edition add-on to the online subscription. To purchase the print version, you must first purchase an online subscription.

Sleep Medicine Board Review Course + Cram Course savings

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Planning on taking the 2013 ABMS exam in sleep medicine? Prepare yourself with the expert faculty of basic researchers, academicians and clinicians at the forefront of the field at this year’s Sleep Medicine Board Review Course.

SLEEP 2013 early bird registration ends April 17

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Only three weeks remain to register for SLEEP 2013 using early bird registration pricing. Early bird registration not only gives you the lowest registration rate, but it also gives you early access to download postgraduate course books prior to arriving in Baltimore, first pick for the ticketed sessions you want to attend and exclusive use of the ExpressPass® check-in, allowing you to save valuable time at the registration kiosks. Register today to secure your savings for SLEEP 2013!

DME course to be offered again in the fall

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Seats for the AASM’s spring course Implementing DME in Your Practice are sold out. Members who missed the opportunity to attend this course in April should be aware that the AASM plans to offer the course again in the fall. Course dates and details will be posted soon on the AASM website.

Hypnogram: National contractors for OCST

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Last month I joined 300 colleagues in attendance at the AASM’s sold-out winter course in Phoenix on “Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine.” The challenge issued to all attendees was that sleep centers must make plans immediately to integrate OCST as health care policy makers continue to focus on cost containment and efficiency. The way this is done will vary depending on your sleep center’s business model. Some sleep center directors will determine that the best option for their center is to outsource specific OCST services to a national contractor. These sleep centers will benefit from the AASM’s new program to recognize national contractors offering OCST services that meet AASM accreditation standards.

CMS to implement edits on ordering-referring providers

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Effective May 1, 2013 the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will implement edits that will result in claims denial if the ordering or referring provider is not enrolled in Medicare. To prevent denials, claims submitted on or after May 1 must include the name and national provider identifier (NPI) of the practitioner who ordered or referred the service.

Visit the recently updated AASM Practice Management page

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

This week, the practice management section of the AASM website was expanded to include new frequently asked questions (FAQs) about coding and billing. New FAQ categories include out of center sleep testing and actigraphy. For updated content, please visit the AASM Practice Management website.

Browse employment opportunities on AASM Job Board

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Some parents may ignore sleep advice from their child’s doctor

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In January 2013 the C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital’s National Poll on Children’s Health asked a national sample of parents of children 0-8 years about the extent to which they follow the advice of their children’s health care provider. Results show that the majority of parents reported following this advice most or all of the time.

Registration is underway for the 2013 sleep medicine board certification exam

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The board examination for subspecialty certification in sleep medicine will be offered Oct. 16, 2013, by six member boards of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).

MedPAC recommends $30B in medicare savings, calls for SGR repeal

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In its annual report, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) asserted that Medicare could reduce its spending by $30 billion over the next five years through provisions in the Affordable Care Act and if Congress follows MedPAC’s recommendations.

MOC discount ends April 1

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Federal government preparing to operate insurance exchanges if states are not ready by Oct. 1 deadline

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The Obama administration is developing contingency plans that would allow the federal government to step in and assume operational control of 17 states' health insurance exchanges under the Affordable Care Act if state exchanges are not ready for enrollment by the October 1 deadline.

Consumers with self-purchased individual plans could experience high premium rate hikes

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Individuals who purchased individual health plans could see their premiums increase between 20% and 100% in January 2014 because of certain provisions in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) that will take effect next year.

Only a few spaces left for the AASM Spring Course

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

This one-and-a-half-day course is nearly sold out. To register, please fax your registration form to the AASM. Physicians and their support staff will learn the clinical and practical guidelines associated with providing durable medical equipment (DME) to patients at the AASM Spring Course: Implementing DME in Your Practice.

SLEEP 2013 sessions quickly selling out

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Many SLEEP 2013 add-on sessions have already sold-out; have you purchased your tickets yet? In order to attend meet the professor sessions, lunch debates or postgraduate courses, you must be registered for the SLEEP 2013 general session.

Children’s Report of Sleep Patterns is found to be a valid and reliable measure

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study presents the preliminary psychometrics of the Children’s Report of Sleep Patterns (CRSP), a self-report measure for children. The CRSP demonstrated good reliability and validity, providing support for children 8 years and older reporting information about their own sleep patterns, sleep hygiene and sleep disturbances.

Study evaluates a stepped care model for chronic insomnia

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the March 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine evaluated a consecutive series of 50 adult patients who participated in a stepped care model for chronic insomnia, in which non-responders to a less intensive therapy received a more intensive intervention.

Nocturia may worsen insomnia symptoms in older adults

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study suggests that nocturia may worsen the already poor sleep of older adults with insomnia. Published in the March 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, results show that 54 percent of all log-reported nocturnal awakenings were associated with nocturia.

AASM publishes directory of Approved OCST Suppliers

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Now available on the AASM website is a directory of national contractors that have earned the Approved OCST Supplier designation. These national contractors are companies that offer to perform specific technical components of out of center sleep testing for sleep centers and whose services meet AASM accreditation standards. The AASM congratulates NovaSom Inc. on being the first company to earn this new designation. The online directory will be updated as additional companies are approved.

Most large companies plan to provide benefits, some may shift part-timers, retirees to exchanges

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Most large U.S. employers expect to continue providing full-time workers with health insurance benefits after the Affordable Care Act is fully implemented, according to the latest employer and health care trends study. However, some employers indicated that they might shift some part-time workers and retirees to government insurance exchanges. For the annual study, researchers surveyed more than 500 companies with at least 1,000 employees between November 2012 and January.

One in 50 health plans currently cover all benefits required by ACA

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Just one out of every 50 health plans in the private insurance market currently meets the minimum coverage or essential health benefit standards that will be required in 2014 under the Affordable Care Act.

HHS vows to make health IT a major priority in 2013

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that it would make the adoption of health information technology a major priority in 2013. The agency also noted that the adoption rate of electronic health record systems tripled to 44 percent over the last three years.

New article provides sleep professionals an overview of the Affordable Care Act

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In the March issue of Sleep Review, an article by AASM Sr. Health Policy and Government Affairs Analyst Ted Thurn provides an overview of the Affordable Care Act. The article gives sleep professionals a broad analysis of key provisions in the ACA including the individual mandate, health insurance excise tax, and State Exchanges. Members also can find answers to frequently asked questions about State Exchanges on the AASM website.

Now available: AASM Coding Education Program (A-CEP)

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Last week, the AASM announced a new Coding Education Program (A-CEP) for sleep center coding and billing staff.

Congratulations new fellow members of the AASM

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor which recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field.

Board review course registration now open

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

AASM Spring Course almost sold-out

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Only one week left to save on this one-and-a-half-day course - and it’s almost sold out! Physicians and their support staff will learn the clinical and practical guidelines associated with providing durable medical equipment (DME) to patients.

Have you visited the SLEEP 2013 Baltimore page?

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Start a conversation in the online membership section discussion forums

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members can discuss the latest findings and developments in sleep medicine and sleep research in the online discussion forums on the AASM website. Each of the eight membership sections has its own discussion forum, and an additional General Discussion forum provides a venue for interaction on broad topics of interest.

Study shows the value of sleep specialists in promoting CPAP adherence

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study reports that a consultation with a board certified sleep medicine physician prior to undergoing a diagnostic PSG is predictive of increased 30-day CPAP use. The study appears in the March 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.

Editorial explores impact of employer health benefits purchasing on sleep medicine

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

“Employer purchasing of health benefits is undergoing a transformation,” writes Bruce Sherman, MD, in “Obstructive sleep apnea and health benefits purchasing: an employer perspective,” an editorial in the March 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. A former sleep center co-director, Sherman is now a corporate medical director supporting employer health benefits purchasing strategy development.

Bladder condition may worsen insomnia symptoms in older adults

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study suggests that the bladder condition nocturia may worsen the already poor sleep of older adults with insomnia.

CMS announces mandatory Medicare FFS payment reductions due to sequestration

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The Medicare Learning Network issued a March 8, 2013, announcement to address mandatory payment reductions in the Medicare Fee-for-Service (FFS) program due to sequestration. In general, Medicare FFS claims with dates-of-service or dates-of-discharge on or after April 1, 2013, will incur a 2 percent reduction in Medicare payment.

Minimize the effect of daylight saving time by adjusting your sleep schedule

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

This weekend marks the return of daylight saving time (DST) for most of the United States. To help ensure a smooth transition to the new time, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) recommends that you begin to adjust your sleep schedule a few days prior to the beginning of DST.

Recommendations published by National Commission on Physician Payment Reform

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The National Commission on Physician Payment Reform published a report on Mar 4 outlining recommendations for changing how physicians are paid.

CMS contracts with RAND and Urban Institute to validate RUC process

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) requires Medicare to develop validation mechanisms for the relative value units (RVUs) assigned to services paid under the physician fee schedule.

Study finds most physicians lose money after adopting EHRs

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

According to a study published in HealthAffairs on Mar 4, just 27 percent of practices achieved a positive return on investment five years after implementation of electronic health record (EHR) systems.

New Coding Education Program from the AASM is now available

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Coding Education Program (A-CEP) is a comprehensive online coding program for sleep medicine that makes learning coding and billing basics easy for office staff and technologists.

Study suggests that insomnia may increase risk of heart failure

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new population study from Norway found that insomnia is associated with an increased risk of incident heart failure. The study followed more than 50,000 people for 11 years, noted BBC News. "We still do not know whether heart failure is really caused by insomnia, and it is still unclear why insomnia is linked to higher heart failure risk,” principal investigator Dr. Lars Laugsand told HealthDay.

Discussing the relationship between exercise and sleep

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The release of the 2013 Sleep in America Poll results by the National Sleep Foundation sparked media interest this week in the topic of sleep and exercise. Even a little bit of exercise can go a long way to improve sleep, AASM spokesperson Michael Grandner, PhD, told USA Today. He also reminded the Huffington Post that sleep is interrelated with nutrition and exercise as three pillars of health. AASM member Patrick Troy, MD, also discussed common sleep problems with FOX Morning Extra in Hartford, Conn.

NHLBI director Dr. Gary Gibbons presents vision for the future to Advisory Council

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A brief summary of the Feb. 12, 2013, meeting of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Advisory Council (NHLBAC) is available online. NHLBI Director Dr. Gary H. Gibbons welcomed members and presented, "Imagining the Future--the NHLBI at 75: Toward a Diverse, Networked Scientific Community."

EHR incentive payment program Affected by Sequestration & IRS Collecting Taxes Under ACA

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Hospitals that participate in the Medicare portion of the federal electronic health record (EHR) incentive payment program could lose thousands of dollars in payments as a result of the 2 percent cut to Medicare reimbursements under sequestration.

Sequestration initiated

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Last week, President Obama signed an order to initiate $85 billion in spending cuts under sequestration for the fiscal year. The mandated cuts are the first installment of nearly $1 trillion in across-the-board reductions, including a 2 percent reduction to Medicare reimbursement rates.

Affordable Care Act regulations released

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The Obama administration recently released more than 700 pages of new regulations to implement various aspects of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The rules cover the ACA's health insurance exchanges and new standards and reforms to the insurance market, such as encouraging cost-sharing, stabilizing health insurance premiums and blocking insurers from denying coverage.

CMS provides timeline for implementation of ACA exchanges

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

CMS recently issued a detailed timeline that outlines the steps they will take to implement the health insurance exchanges under the Affordable Care Act between now and October 1.

AASM March closeout sale - shop now

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

With discounts up to half-off, now is the perfect time to shop the AASM March Closeout Sale. Sale items include shipping for orders shipped anywhere in the Contiguous United States. Products are final sale and limited in supply. Order today while supplies last. March Closeout Sale ends March 31, 2013.

AASM Spring Course advanced registration ends March 22

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Only two weeks left to save on this one-and-a-half-day course! Physicians and their support staff will learn the clinical and practical guidelines associated with providing durable medical equipment (DME) to patients.

Final week to submit SLEEP 2013 late-breaking abstracts

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

One week remaining to submit a late-breaking abstract for SLEEP 2013. The deadline to submit an abstract is Friday, March 15, 2013. Late-breaking abstracts should include high quality emerging data found between December 2012 and March 2013.

Hypnogram: Let’s move sleep into the childhood obesity discussion

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Obesity intervention programs must take a comprehensive approach to address the complex risk factors that contribute to weight gain in children, and this approach should include an emphasis on healthy sleep. That is what I communicated this week in a letter from the AASM to First Lady Michelle Obama, who launched the Let’s Move initiative in 2010 to improve physical activity and nutrition among children.

Uncovering the link between the circadian and sleep homeostatic processes

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study in the March issue of SLEEP demonstrates that there is a considerable cross-talk between the circadian and homeostatic processes. The authors concluded that as the clock gene Per2 in the brain responds to both sleep loss and time of day, the molecule is well positioned to keep track of and to anticipate homeostatic sleep need. “Overall, this study adds to the case that clock genes not only underlie circadian and homeostatic aspects of sleep regulation, but that there is a fundamental link between the two processes,” states a commentary on the study.

SLEEP & JCSM rise to the top of Google Scholar Metrics

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Among 13 publications focused on circadian rhythms and sleep, the journal SLEEP ranks first according to Google Scholar Metrics five-year h-index and h-median scores. Google Scholar Metrics provide an easy way to quickly gauge the visibility and influence of scholarly publications. Some consider Google Metrics to be more accurate than the traditional impact factor in measuring how a journal is influencing its field.

Exploring sleep and memory in children and adults

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Recent articles in Nature Neuroscience have brought attention to the relationship between sleep and memory. A study published online this week shows that children showed greater gains in explicit sequence knowledge after sleep than adults when sleep followed implicit training on a motor sequence.

Study finds that insufficient sleep affects gene expression

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

This week a new study published online ahead of print in PNAS found that one week of insufficient sleep alters gene expression in human blood cells. “It's an indication that sleep disruption or sleep restriction is doing more than just making you tired,” principal investigator Derk-Jan Dijk, PhD, told the Guardian.

NIA requests proposals to study health and longevity at older ages

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institute on Aging (NIA) invites proposals for R01 research project grants (PA-13-125), R03 small grant programs (PA-13-123) and R21 exploratory/developmental research grants (PA-13-124) to study regional and international differences in health and longevity at older ages.

States selected to receive $300M in state innovation model design

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that 25 states will be awarded nearly $300 million for a state innovation program that will help states design and test new multi-payer payment and delivery models for their Medicaid and CHIP programs.

NIH institute directors will determine distribution of sequester cuts

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The directors of NIH's 27 institutes and centers will be charged with determining how to distribute cuts under sequestration, should they take effect, announced NIH Director Francis Collins.

Health care industry, federal agencies prepare for mandated spending reductions

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The health care industry is bracing itself for some of the $85 billion in automatic spending cuts scheduled to take effect March 1, as a deal to avert the sequester remains out of reach. The automatic cuts involve nearly $1 trillion in across-the-board reductions, including a 2 percent reduction to Medicare reimbursement rates.

AASM thanks members who donated to the AASM PAC at the Winter Course

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM would like to thank our members who donated to the AASM Political Action Committee (AASM PAC) at the Winter Course

PQRS incentive deadline: March 14

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The deadline to submit for your 2012 PQRS incentives is March 14, 2013. Be sure to receive your incentive by using the easy solution to PQRS reporting through CECity’s PQRIwizard—only $225!

Learn legal and clinical DME guidelines at the AASM Spring Course

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

During this one-and-a-half-day course, physicians and their support staff will learn the clinical and practical guidelines associated with providing durable medical equipment (DME) to patients at the AASM Spring Course: Implementing DME in Your Practice.

Two weeks left to submit SLEEP 2013 late-breaking abstracts

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The APSS is now accepting late-breaking abstract submissions for presentation at SLEEP 2013. Late-breaking abstracts should include high quality emerging data found between December 2012 and March 2013. Submissions are accepted from Tuesday, February 19 through Friday, March 15, 2013.

Membership section chair call for nominations

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM invites members to apply to serve as steering committee chairs for their primary membership section. Sections provide a forum for members with focused interests to share those interests, discuss ideas, stimulate research and recommend programs that promote education through the AASM.

Adult sleepwalking is serious condition that impacts health-related quality of life

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study found that adult sleepwalking is a potentially serious condition that may induce violent behaviors and affect health-related quality of life.

Download the AASM Scoring Manual app on your iPhone or iPad

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is proud to announce that the AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications Version 2.0 is now available all iOS devices. By downloading the app through the iTunes App Store, you will be able to view the entire AASM Scoring Manual on your iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch.

A little bit of exercise can go a long way to improve sleep and wellness

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

While exercise can be an important contributor to your sleep health, a growing body of research suggests that you don’t need a high intensity, grueling workout to sleep better. Even small amounts of routine physical activity may improve your sleep and overall well-being. This is good news for the many Americans who are failing to exercise regularly. According to the CDC, about 25 percent of U.S. adults report no leisure-time physical activity.

Research notes: 5 surprising facts about exercise and sleep

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Exercise can be an important contributor to your sleep health. Overall, people tend to sleep better when their lifestyle includes some physical activity. However, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine reports that recent research has revealed some surprising aspects about the relationship between exercise and sleep.

Application for Approved OCST Suppliers

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Companies that perform technical functions associated with the provision of out of center sleep testing services can apply for the designation of Approved OCST Supplier. The program is intended to help sleep centers select a provider that meets the AASM accreditation standards, while ensuring that the board certified sleep medicine physician remains at the center of care. For more information, view the recently adopted Out of Center Testing Policy Statement. Download the Approved OCST Supplier application to apply.

Study may help distinguish older adults with insomnia from good sleepers

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the February issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine sought to to identify the optimal quantitative thresholds that differentiate older adults with insomnia from good sleepers.

Application deadline for Physician Scientist Training Award is Feb. 25

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation is accepting applications for the Physician Scientist Training Award, which supports research training for physicians who wish to pursue careers as physician scientists in sleep medicine.

Study of insomnia finds a new predictor for suicidal thoughts

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Last week ABC news reported on a new study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine that examined the relationship between insomnia and suicidal thoughts. AASM member W. Vaughn McCall, MD, explained to ABC that this relationship may be mediated by dysfunctional attitudes and beliefs about sleep as well as nightmares. In a story by My Health News Daily that was featured on FOXnews.com, McCall added that the focus of his current study is to explore how this understanding may provide a new target for treatment and suicide prevention.

Republicans reject Senate Democrats' proposal to avoid sequester cuts

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Republicans rejected a proposal by Senate Democrats to replace the sequestration cuts with alternative spending cuts and tax increases. Recent events suggest that a compromise will not be reached before the sequester takes effect on March 1.

House unveils proposals to permanently repeal the sustainable growth rate formula

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Recently, proposals have been unveiled on Capitol Hill that would eliminate Medicare’s sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula. On February 6, Reps. Allyson Schwartz (D-PA) and Joe Heck, DO (R-NV) reintroduced H.R. 574, the Medicare Physician Payment Innovation Act, which permanently repeals the SGR, provides positive updates for four years, and tests a variety of new payment models to provide options for physicians across medical specialties, practice types, and communities.

White House releases final essential health benefits rule

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The Obama administration issued a final rule outlining the 10 broad categories of essential health benefits that most health insurance plans must offer in 2014 under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Under the ACA, health plans in state exchanges must provide coverage for 10 categories of benefits, such as maternity care, prescription drugs and preventive care.

Federal government will run state exchanges in 26 states

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The Washington Post recently reported that the federal government will run health insurance exchanges under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) in 26 states, while seven states will partner with the federal government and 17 states and the District of Columbia will run their own exchanges.

Congratulations new fellow member of the AASM!

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor which recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field. We are pleased to welcome Maryann Deak, MD, FAASM as a new Fellow Member.

PQRS reporting deadline approaching

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The deadline to submit for your 2012 PQRS incentives is March 14, 2013. The AASM now offers an easy solution to PQRS reporting through CECity’s PQRIwizard for only $225!

One month left to save - Register today for the Spring Course

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Haven’t Renewed? Your Membership is About to Lapse!

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

If you have not renewed for 2013, your AASM membership will lapse on March 1, 2013. Renew by February 28, 2013 to stay listed in and receive the 2013-2014 AASM Membership Directory, and continue accessing your member benefits. Your dues fund the promotion of quality patient care, professional and public education, research, and health policy initiatives with national and state legislation and insurers. Commit to the future of sleep medicine by renewing today.

Membership sections committee publishes newsletter

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Learn about the activities of the AASM Membership Sections through the second issue of the Membership Sections Newsletter! This issue highlights ongoing projects, new research and original articles.

FDA warns against using codeine in children after surgery for OSA

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In a safety announcement posted Wednesday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced new actions being taken to address a known safety concern with codeine use in certain children after tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy.

Call for SLEEP 2013 Late-Breaking Abstracts

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS) will be accepting late-breaking abstract submissions for presentation at SLEEP 2013. Late-breaking abstracts should include high quality emerging data found between December 2012 and March 2013.

FOA request on obesity related behaviors

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) National Institute on Aging (NIA) National Cancer Institute (NCI) Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research (OBSSR) have issued a funding opportunity announcement (FOA) for obesity research. The R01 (PA-13-110) requests proposals to evaluate large scale policy or programs that are expected to influence obesity related behaviors and weight outcomes in an effort to prevent or reduce obesity. Standard dates apply.

Study of insomnia finds a new predictor for suicidal thoughts

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study confirms a link between insomnia and thoughts of suicide and suggests that this relationship is mediated by dysfunctional beliefs and attitudes about sleep as well as nightmares. The study suggests that the targeted assessment and treatment of specific sleep problems may reduce the risk of suicide in people with depressive symptoms.

AASM members discuss sleep and memory on Science Friday

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

On Friday, Feb. 8, AASM members Michael Silber, MBChB, and David Dinges, PhD, were among the experts who discussed sleep and memory on Science Friday, a weekly science talk show that is broadcast live over public radio stations nationwide as part of NPR's Talk of the Nation programming.

2012 a record-breaking year for fraud and abuse recoveries

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In a Feb. 11 press release, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the publication of the HHS and Department of Justice joint report on their Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control Program. The report indicates that government teams recovered $4.2 Billion in fiscal year 2012. According to the press release, “for every dollar spent on health care-related fraud and abuse investigations in the last three years, the government recovered $7.90. This is the highest three-year average return on investment in the 16-year history of the Health Care Fraud and Abuse (HCFAC) Program.”

CMS issues rule finalizing "Sunshine" act

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

On Feb. 1, 2013, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) published a final rule describing the National Physician Payment Transparency Program, often referred to as the “Sunshine” rule. The rule finalized procedures and processes whereby manufactures or drugs, devices, biologicals, or medical supplies provided under Medicare, Medicaid or CHIP must” report annually to the Secretary certain payments or transfers of value provided to physicians or teaching hospitals.”

SLEEP 2013 preliminary program now available

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Attendees can jump-start their SLEEP 2013 experience by viewing the online version of the Preliminary Program for information on postgraduate courses, scientific sessions and keynote speakers for the only five-day meeting with scientific content and an exhibition hall focused solely on sleep medicine and sleep research.

Call for Volunteers to serve on AASM Committees

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Are you looking to expand your professional knowledge, network with colleagues and contribute to the continued growth of the sleep medicine field? Consider participating on a standing committee of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). Volunteer committee members provide an invaluable service to the organization and membership by contributing to initiatives and projects that are critical to the continued development of the field and also gain professional enrichment through the diverse activities of a committee.

Final Rule on Essential Health Benefits (EHBs) to be released soon

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is conducting a final review of the essential health benefit (EHB) regulations under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Under the ACA, health plans in state health insurance exchanges must provide coverage for 10 broad categories of benefits, such as maternity care, prescription drugs and preventive care. HHS in November 2012 released a proposed rule on the minimum benefits.

Some lawmakers willing to allow sequester to take effect

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Some lawmakers recently have suggested that they might allow mandated spending cuts under sequestration, which includes a 2 percent reduction to Medicare reimbursement rates, to take effect on March 1. The mandated cuts involve about $1 trillion in across-the-board reductions. In January, President Obama signed legislation that delayed the cuts by two months.

Lawmakers propose bill to permanently repeal sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Representative’s Joe Heck (R-Nev.) and Allyson Schwartz (D-Pa.) unveiled legislation (HR 574) that would permanently repeal the sustainable growth rate formula (SGR), which sets Medicare physician reimbursement rates.

AHRQ director plans to step down later this year

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Carolyn Clancy, MD, is planning to step down as AHRQ director later this year. One of 12 agencies within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality strives to improve the quality, safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of health care for all Americans.

HHS releases long-awaited HIPAA final rule

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) released a final rule to expand the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The effective date of the final rule is March 26, 2013, and covered entities and business associates have 180 days after the effective date to comply with the final rule provisions.

Share your success in telemedicine - submit your suggestions to the AASM

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM has long been committed to educating members on future sleep care trends. The AASM is currently gathering information on state and federal laws and reimbursement policies for telemedicine services. The objective is to provide our members information on how to integrate telemedicine in a sleep practice. The AASM would also like to hear from our members who have a successful telemedicine program and willing to share your success with your colleagues.

Congratulations new Fellow Members of the AASM

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Start your Maintenance of Certification now

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is committed to helping our members maintain their specialty and subspecialty certifications, which is why we’ve created AASM MOC: Assessment for Sleep Medicine with special member pricing! Earn Part II credits and CME from ABIM and ABPN with the AASM MOC – General Sleep Disorders Module. Upon completion, you will be able to compare your results to all other individuals who have taken the module.

New course: Implementing DME in Your Practice

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Physicians and their support staff will learn the clinical and practical guidelines associated with providing durable medical equipment (DME) to patients at the AASM Spring Course: Implementing DME in Your Practice. During this one-and-a-half-day course, sessions will focus on current limitations, regulations, ownership options, staff policies, PAP adherence and DME accreditation.

SLEEP 2013 ticketed sessions are filling up quickly - register today to reserve your space

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Don't miss your opportunity to attend add-on sessions like Meet the Professor, Postgraduate Courses and Lunch Debates. These sessions have limited seating and are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. Remember, SLEEP 2013 general session registration is required to attend these sessions.

NIH committee meeting Feb. 25-26 to discuss sleep research plan

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The NIH Sleep Disorders Research Advisory Board will host a meeting Feb. 25-26 to discuss and provide updates on sleep and circadian research developments and the NIH sleep research plan.

Request for research into disease risk linked to maternal sleep disturbances

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) have announced a funding opportunity (FOA) that may interest sleep and circadian researchers.

FOA request on substance abuse in U.S. Military personnel and veterans

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) and National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) have issued a funding opportunity announcement (FOA) for research on health and prevention programs.

HHS confirms exchanges on schedule

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Health and Human Services (HHS) officials said that federally run health insurance exchanges are on schedule for October enrollment. HHS Officials stated that the government is on track to start accepting insurance plan applications in April, and it currently is testing a data hub designed to confirm the eligibility of people seeking insurance in any of the federal exchanges.

Most states lack laws essential to enforcing ACA's consumer protections

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Thirty-nine states have not enacted laws essential to enforcing new consumer protection rules under the Affordable Care Act, raising the possibility of increased federal oversight, according to a survey released Friday by the Commonwealth Fund.

Renew by Feb. 28 to stay listed in the 2013-2014 Membership Directory

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

You must renew your AASM membership by February 28, 2013 to be included in and receive the 2013-2014 printed Membership Directory. To keep your account active, renew online or call the Membership Department at 630-737-9756.

New program designates Approved OCST Suppliers

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

To help sleep centers navigate through the rapidly changing health care landscape, the AASM has adopted an Out of Center Testing Policy Statement that involves a process for designating Approved OCST Suppliers. Through this new initiative, the policy will recognize companies that perform technical functions associated with the provision of out of center sleep testing services and meet AASM accreditation standards, while ensuring that the board certified sleep medicine physician remains at the center of care.

Sign up for the PQRIwizard webinar today!

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM has made receiving your PQRS incentives even easier by offering CECity’s PQRIwizard. Learn how you can still qualify for 2012 PQRS incentives by registering for our free webinar on Tuesday, February 12, 2013 from 7:00pm - 8:00pm EST.

SLEEP 2013: Purchase your Take Me Out to the Ballgame welcome reception tickets today

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Don’t strike out! Touch base with attendees while supporting future sleep research on June 2, 2013 from 6:00pm - 7:30pm at the Hilton Baltimore Hotel. Your admission ticket gives you access to live music, an extensive selection of hors d'oeuvres and a drink ticket all while enjoying exclusive views into Camden Yards! All proceeds benefit the American Sleep Medicine Foundation and the Sleep Research Society Foundation. Register for SLEEP 2013 and purchase your welcome reception tickets today!

AASM President Sam Fleishman explains new Approved OCST Supplier designation

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

An introduction to the important new program that the Academy has developed to designate Approved OCST Supplier.

Hypnogram: Revised OCST Accreditation Standards, Approved OCST Suppliers

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

I want to provide you with important updates about a few AASM initiatives related to out of center sleep testing (OCST) that will empower sleep centers to successfully navigate the changing landscape of sleep medicine. First, the AASM has completed a comprehensive revision of the Standards for Accreditation of Out of Center Sleep Testing (OCST) in Adult Patients. The revisions strengthen the standards in areas such as HIPAA compliance, personnel, equipment maintenance, data reporting and quality assurance. These changes ensure that patients will continue to receive the highest quality of care from OCST suppliers.

Sleep Testing – 2013 Updated Payment Information and New Pediatric Sleep Codes

Tue, 05 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The 2013 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) final rule was published on Nov.16, 2012. Since that time, as a result of the American Taxpayer Relief Act enacted on Jan. 2, 2013, the conversion factor rate used to calculate payment for services has been updated. As a result of the Act, the 26% SGR cut was averted and the 2% sequestration cut was delayed for 2 months.

Sleep in the News: AASM president discusses initiative to bring continuity of care to Medicare

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In the new issue of Sleep Review, the cover story “Unifying Sleep Care” features a Q&A with AASM president Dr. Sam Fleishman, who describes how the AASM is striving to transform the fragmented model of care for Medicare patients with sleep apnea.

Some manufacturers seek to pass ACA-related fee on to hospital customers

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Some medical device manufacturers may pass on the cost of a new medical device tax under the Affordable Care Act to their hospital customers.

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announces that he will step down

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week, U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced to the employees of the U.S. Department of Transportation that after serving for four years in President Obama’s Cabinet, he would not be staying on for the second term.

Department of Labor extends exchange notification deadline for employers

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In a statement posted on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) website, the Department of Labor announced that it has delayed the March 1 deadline for employers to notify workers about health insurance exchanges available under the Affordable Care Act.

AASM launches new Practice Management page with extensive member resources

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In January the AASM launched its Practice Management page for sleep-related coding and insurance resources. Members may explore the page to find answers to coding questions, information on private payers and new preauthorization requirements, as well news updates related to coding, billing, reimbursement and payment policy.

Medicare EHR meaningful use attestation: 2012 deadline approaching

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The attestation deadline for the 2012 Medicare Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program is February 28, 2013. Eligible professionals who participated in the 2012 reporting period are encouraged to register and attest soon to prevent any delay to incentive payments.

AASM MOC: Start your maintenance of certification now

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2013: Sessions filling up quickly - register today to attend sessions like Meet the Professor

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Don't miss your opportunity to attend add-on sessions like Meet the Professor, Postgraduate Courses and Lunch Debates when you join us at SLEEP 2013, June 1-5, 2013, in Baltimore, Md. These sessions have limited seating and are sold on a first-come, first-served basis - so register today!

New course! Implementing DME in your practice

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Physicians and your support staff will learn the clinical and practical guidelines associated with providing durable medical equipment (DME) to patients at the AASM Spring Course: Implementing DME in Your Practice. This MUST-ATTEND course is from April 20 – April 21, 2013, at the AASM National Office in Darien, IL.

AASM congratulates new Fellow Member

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor that recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field. We are pleased to welcome Jose Medina, MD, FAASM, as a new Fellow Member.

Application deadlines are in February for three ASMF grant opportunities

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Three grant opportunities are now available from the American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF). Complete details and applications for each grant are available at www.discoversleep.org.

In Memoriam: Peter J. Hauri, PhD (1933 – 2013)

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine regrets to announce that Peter J. Hauri, PhD, died Thursday, Jan. 31, 2013, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester, Minn.

Active duty military personnel prone to sleep disorders and short sleep duration

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study found a high prevalence of sleep disorders and a startlingly high rate of short sleep duration among active duty military personnel. The study suggests the need for a cultural change toward appropriate sleep practices throughout the military.

AASM response to closing of Sleep HealthCenters facilities in New England and Arizona

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine encourages patients who have been affected by the closing of multiple Sleep HealthCenters facilities in New England and Arizona to contact a local AASM accredited sleep disorders center to make arrangements for the immediate transition of their medical care. An online directory of AASM accredited member centers is available at www.sleepeducation.com, or patients can contact the AASM national office at 630-737-9700 or inquiries@aasmnet.org to get contact information for a local sleep center accredited by the AASM.

NCCAM requests research on symptom management in military and veteran populations

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) has issued a funding opportunity announcement (FOA) for Competitive Revision Applications for Research on Complementary Approaches to Symptom Management in Military and Veteran Populations (R01). The FOA (PA-13-075) encourages competitive revision applications to augment currently active NCCAM R01 grants. NCCAM-funded researchers are encouraged to collaborate with Veteran Health Administration (VHA) or Department of Defense (DoD) clinicians or researchers to conduct research on complementary approaches for symptom management and health in military or VA populations. One example of a research approach includes enhancing the funded research by adding a military or VA setting or population and adding the use of PROMIS tools or NIH Toolbox tools to other measures being used in the parent grant to assess pain, sleep, or other symptoms of interest in the military or VA population.

FOA requests R03 and R34 projects for substance and alcohol abuse treatments

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), and Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences (OBSSR) have issued a funding opportunity announcement (FOA) for a Behavioral & Integrative Treatment Development Program. The R03 (PA-13-079) and R34 (PA-13-078) requests solicit discrete, well-defined projects on the development and testing of behavioral and integrative treatments for substance and alcohol abuse and dependence. One specific area of interest involves studies to create and integrate sleep or other relevant health behavior modules for incorporation into drug abuse treatment protocols, to improve efficacy of treatment.

Deadline is Feb. 1 for R25 grant applications for sleep and circadian education research

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) issued by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) invites the submission of Education Research (R25) grant applications focused on scientific advances in sleep health and circadian and sleep biology. The application due date is Feb. 1, 2013, by 5:00 PM local time of applicant organization.

NIDA issues RFQ for sleep study readings

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) on behalf of the National Institute on Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) has issued a request for quotation (RFQ) for Sleep Study Readings. The total numbers of hours are 102 per annum. The period of performance is March 1, 2013 through Feb. 28, 2014 with two (2) option years. This is a small business set-aside. Performance will be in Bethesda, Maryland. The quotations are due on January 31, 2013 at 3:00PM EST.

AASM PQRIwizard available at discounted rate

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Now is the time to submit for your 2012 PQRS Incentives. When you register through the AASM, the PQRIwizard program is only $225! That’s a savings of $74 compared to the retail price of $299. 2012 PQRS participants are eligible to receive a 0.5% financial incentive payment from CMS, based on your total allowed charges for Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) covered services. To receive your 2012 incentives, reporting must be completed by March 14, 2013.

NHLBI seeks comment on the study of physical inactivity and sedentary behavior

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and the National Institute on Aging (NIA) have issued a Request for Information (RFI) for High-Priority Research Topics for Sedentary Behavior. Sedentary behavior is defined as activities that do not substantially increase energy expenditure beyond resting levels and includes activities such as sleeping, lying down, sitting, television viewing and computer use. All comments must be submitted electronically through February 15, 2013.

Health and Human Services awards $1.5 billion in grants to help 11 states establish exchanges

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced last week that it had awarded $1.5 billion in grant funding to help 11 states establish or develop their health insurance exchanges under the Affordable Care Act. A total of 49 states, the District of Columbia, and four territories have received grants to plan their marketplaces, and 34 states and the District of Columbia have received grants to build their marketplaces.

Buy the print version of the AASM Scoring Manual today

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2013 presents the Take Me Out to the Ballgame welcome reception

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Touch base with SLEEP 2013 attendees while supporting future sleep research by going to the welcome reception on Sunday, June 2, 2013 from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at the Hilton Baltimore Hotel. All proceeds benefit the American Sleep Medicine Foundation and the Sleep Research Society Foundation. Register for SLEEP 2013 and purchase your welcome reception tickets today!

AASM Winter Course pre-registration rates end Friday, Jan. 25

Wed, 23 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Registration is quickly filling up for the AASM Winter Course! Don’t miss your chance to attend the Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine course at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel in sunny Phoenix, Arizona, from Feb. 22 – Feb. 24, 2013. Register by 11:59 p.m. EST on Friday, Jan. 25, to receive the advanced-rate member pricing. The hotel room block is almost sold out; don’t postpone making your accommodations.

Insurers ask HHS to impose additional penalties for individual mandate

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

This week Politico reported that health insurers are asking Health and Human Services (HHS) to implement additional penalties on U.S. residents who do not acquire health insurance coverage beginning in 2014. Penalties assessed under the Affordable Care Act's individual mandate begin at $95. However, insurers are worried that the fee will not be enough to motivate healthier individuals to purchase coverage. America's Health Insurance Plans, BlueCross BlueShield Association, the National Association of Health Underwriters and the American Academy of Actuaries all have urged HHS to impose late-enrollment fees to help prevent individuals from waiting to sign up for coverage until they become sick.

Health and Human Services will waive, extend deadline for exchanges

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

This week the New York Times reported that Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius will extend or waive the deadline for states interested in running their own health insurance exchange. HHS will work with states and set timelines and goals to progress toward creating an exchange. Every state is supposed to have an exchange by October.

MedPAC urges Congress to limit cuts to hospital payments

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) urged the federal government to limit cuts required by the "fiscal cliff" deal in order to leave hospitals with a 1% payment increase for inpatient and outpatient care in fiscal year 2014. The 1% payment increase would technically be a reduction from the scheduled 1.8% increase in inpatient payments and 2% increase in outpatient payments established by a pre-existing legislative formula.

Media seeks AASM input on new FDA safety announcement for sleeping pills

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Last week, the NPR radio program All Things Considered interviewed AASM President Sam Fleishman, MD, for his perspective on the FDA’s decision to require lower recommended doses for sleeping pills that contain zolpidem. An AASM statement on the decision emphasized that sleeping pills can be a safe and effective treatment option for insomnia when used as prescribed by a licensed, board certified sleep medicine physician. Excerpts from the statement were quoted in broadcast reports made by numerous local NBC television affiliates, including NBC 5 in Chicago and NBC 13 in Indianapolis.

CMS warns that updated payment rates may not be posted yet

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

In a Jan. 3 response to enactment of the American Taxpayer Relief Act, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) indicated that some carriers may not post updated 2013 Medicare physician payment rates and limiting charges until later in the month. The new law provides for a zero percent update for claims with dates of service on or after Jan. 1, 2013, through Dec. 31, 2013. Claims with dates of service prior to January 1, 2013, are unaffected. Medicare claims administration contractors will be posting the payment rates on their websites no later than Jan. 23, 2013.

New PQRIwizard: Register to begin earning incentive payments

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members can register for the new PQRIwizard program for only $225 – a savings of $74 compared to the retail price! The program offers eligible professionals a simple and cost-effective online tool to collect and report quality measure data under the CMS PQRS incentive payment program.

ASMF announces current grant opportunities in sleep medicine

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Three grant opportunities are now available from the American Sleep Medicine Foundation. Complete details and applications for each grant are available at www.discoversleep.org.

Now available! Members save on Maintenance of Certification

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is committed to helping our members maintain their specialty and subspecialty certifications, which is why we’ve created AASM MOC: Assessment for Sleep Medicine with special member pricing! This program will include a number of self-study modules relevant to the practice of sleep medicine to help practitioners meet Part II MOC requirements. AASM MOC – General Sleep Disorders Module is the first of these products that has been approved by the ABPN and the ABIM.

New pediatric learning modules available for $25

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Created from our Fall 2012 course, Diagnosing and Treating Sleep Disorders in the Pediatric Population, these one-hour lectures review what physicians need to know in order to diagnose and treat sleep disorders in the pediatric population.

Earn CME by reading the new issue of JCSM

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The January 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine is available to AASM members online. Now published monthly, each issue of the journal offers you an opportunity to earn up to 2.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits.

One week left to save on AASM Winter Course registration

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Advanced registration ends Jan. 25, 2013 for Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine. Register today for this MUST-ATTEND course!

SLEEP 2013 registration is now open – renew your membership to save!

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2013 registration is now open for everyone! Join us in Baltimore at the Inner Harbor from Saturday, June 1 – Wednesday, June 5. Active AASM members enjoy discounted registration fees for SLEEP 2013, so be sure to renew your membership before you register!

FDA recommends lower dose for common sleeping pills that treat insomnia

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The FDA issued a recent safety announcement and consumer update requiring drug makers to lower the recommended doses for products that contain zolpidem.

Deadline to request exemption from ePrescribing penalty is January 31

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Physicians unable to file for a Medicare ePrescribing hardship exemption by the June 30, 2012 deadline have until January 31, 2013 to avoid a 1.5 percent payment penalty

Discover the new AASM Practice Management page

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Looking for coding information on the AASM website? We’re excited to announce the launch of our new Practice Management website! The practice management page has all of the resources previously housed in the coding section and includes exciting new content as well.

Your membership supports sleep medicine research

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

AASM membership dues help support the advancement of sleep medicine research through the creation and revision of Clinical Practice Guidelines.

New pediatric focused online learning modules

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Created from our newest Fall 2012 course, Diagnosing and Treating Sleep Disorders in the Pediatric Population, these Online Learning Modules are the easiest way for you and your colleagues to gain expertise in sleep medicine and earn CME credit.

SLEEP 2013 registration opens Monday

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Mark your calendars - SLEEP 2013 registration opens for everyone on Monday, January 14! Visit the SLEEP 2013 registration page for updated info including early-bird deadlines and registration fees.

AASM Winter Course: two weeks left to save

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Advanced registration ends January 25, 2013. Register today for the AASM Winter Course: Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine.

Get incentives this year and avoid penalties in 2015

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

AASM statement on new FDA safety announcement for sleeping pills

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM advises all physicians to prescribe sleep medications according to the new dose requirements and offers important safety tips for patients.

AASM statement: CDC data on drowsy driving highlights need to treat sleep illness

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Drivers should seek treatment for suspected sleep apnea to reduce risk of drowsy driving

Many businesses beginning to consider options as ACA coverage requirements loom

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A growing number of employers are reviewing their options as the new health coverage regulations under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) are set to be rolled out later this year and implemented on January 1, 2014.

President Obama signs fiscal cliff bill into law, delays SGR cuts

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

President Obama signed legislation (HR 8) to avert the fiscal cliff, postponing mandated spending cuts under sequestration from taking effect, the Wall Street Journal reports. The measure was approved by Congress, with the House voting 257-167 and the Senate voting 89-8 in favor of the bill.

Coming Soon! AASM Maintenance of Certification

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine understands the importance of MOC to its membership; thus, we have created AASM MOC: Assessment for Sleep Medicine.

Members stay warm and save! Register now for the AASM Winter Course

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

AASM Members, take advantage of discounted member pricing for the AASM Winter Course: Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine.

There’s still time to submit a Challenging Case for SLEEP 2013

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

Now is your chance to stump your colleagues at SLEEP 2013 with a challenging case that you have diagnosed and treated! To enter, submit a Challenging Case for the Brown Bag Report Sessions on or before Wednesday, Jan. 9th at 12:00pm CDT.

Treating sleep-disordered breathing in pregnancy may improve fetal health

Wed, 02 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0500

A new study suggests that treatment of mild sleep-disordered breathing with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy in pregnant women with preeclampsia improves fetal activity levels, a marker of fetal well-being.

Date announced for the 2013 sleep medicine board certification exam

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The board examination for subspecialty certification in sleep medicine will be offered Oct. 16, 2013, by six member boards of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS).

Top three reasons to make better sleep a priority in the New Year

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

One New Year’s resolution that everyone should keep this year is to make better sleep a priority in the year ahead.

Renew today to continue free access to SLEEP and JCSM

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members receive free access to the journal SLEEP and Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine (JCSM) – a $100 savings. SLEEP serves as an excellent tool for scientists engaged in the study of sleep disorders as well as clinicians practicing sleep medicine.

Buy the print version of the AASM Scoring Manual today

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

It's here! The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications Version 2.0 print edition is now available for purchase.

Submit a challenging case for SLEEP 2013 today – Deadline extended

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

FREE shipping on orders more than $200

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM now offers FREE shipping to addresses within the continental US on all orders over $200; no promo code required! Just fill your cart to $200 and we will take care of the shipping cost. Applies only to orders with post-discount total of least $200 excluding taxes. Other restrictions apply; please see the AASM online store for complete rules.

Holiday Hours: AASM National Office will be closed Dec. 31-Jan. 1

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM National Office will close at 5 p.m. CST, on Friday, Dec. 28 in observance of the New Years holiday.

Hypnogram: New PR initiative

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

“The American Academy of Sleep Medicine considers sleep disorders an illness that has reached epidemic proportions.” “AASM encourages patients to talk to their doctors about sleep problems or visit www.sleepeducation.com for a searchable directory of sleep centers.” You’ll soon be seeing that message on news releases and other communications coming out of AASM. It’s part of the AASM PR initiative to raise public awareness of sleep disorders, which I discussed here recently. These carefully chosen words are designed to sound an alarm and get people the help they need.

Most consumers 'oblivious' to health-related costs, study finds

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

About 53 percent of consumers are unaware of health care costs and typically accept any care that is suggested, while 10 percent are "price sensitive" and take costs into account when making health care decisions, according to a study reported by the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions.

Affordable Care Act: 32 states decline to operate their own insurance exchange

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

All 50 states met the Health and Human Services (HHS) December 14 deadline to declare whether they will set up their own health insurance exchange under the Affordable Care Act. Thirty-two states have declined to operate their own exchange.

EHR reporting period ends Dec. 31

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Eligible professionals participating in the Medicare or Medicaid Electronic Health Record (EHR) incentive program must complete their reporting period by the end of 2012 in order to receive an incentive payment.

Claim 12 CECs in one place for FREE with ISR!

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Inter-Scorer Reliability assessment system is the easiest way for your center to fulfill the ISR Standards for Accreditation requirement, evaluate and compare staff and allows your scorers to claim one free CEC per record exam—that’s 12 free CECs per year!

Members save on AASM Winter Course registration

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Renew your AASM membership before the end of the year to take advantage of discounted member pricing for the AASM Winter Course: Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine.

Deadline to submit a challenging case for SLEEP 2013 extended

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Do not miss the opportunity to stump your colleagues at SLEEP 2013 with a challenging case that you have diagnosed and treated! The deadline to submit a Challenging Case for the Brown Bag Report Sessions has been extended until Wednesday, Jan. 9th at 12:00pm CDT.

Demand for treatment of sleep illness is up as drowsy Americans seek help for potentially dangerous conditions

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

As more Americans come to grips with the serious nature of their sleep problems, the number of medical facilities treating sleep illness is on the rise.

Study is first to find significant link between sleepiness and vitamin D

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

New research suggests that race plays an important role in the complex relationship between daytime sleepiness and vitamin D levels.

Health and Human Services approve six health insurance exchanges

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Health and Human Services (HHS) granted conditional approval to six states' plans to operate their own health insurance exchange, the New York Times reports.

AASM taking action regarding SGR and sequestration

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is working with the American Medical Association (AMA) and contacting Congress regarding the SGR and sequestration issue. AASM is concerned that if these cuts are implemented, many sleep providers will be unable to continue to treat Medicare patients. The consequence of enacting these extreme cuts will cause a substantial and severe access to care crisis for Medicare patients.

Join your colleagues in supporting sleep medicine – renew today!

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM has long been committed to protecting quality patient care, professional and public education, research, legislation (national and state) and economics in sleep medicine. The AASM has highlighted many of its 2012 AASM accomplishments. The AASM is planning a members-only practice management portion of the website with information on private payers, Maintenance of Certification, PQRS registry availability, an online coding education program – A-CEP, and more for the 2013 membership year!

Coming soon! AASM Maintenance of Certification

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine understands the importance of Maintenance of Certification (MOC) to its membership; thus, we have created AASM MOC: Assessment for Sleep Medicine.

Secure Your AASM Winter Course registration discount

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Mix and mingle with leading sleep industry representatives as they share their companies’ latest innovations at the AASM Winter Course: Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine February 22-24.

Monday, December 17 is the last day to submit an abstract for SLEEP 2013

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Present your research as an oral presentation or as a poster by submitting your abstract through SLEEP 2013 Abstract Central. Complete abstract submission guidelines are available in the Call for Abstracts & Session Proposals. SLEEP 2013 will be held June 1-5, 2013 in Baltimore, Maryland. Submit your abstracts today and join us in the Inner Harbor!

Residents could benefit from protected sleep periods

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

New research from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia VA Medical Center indicates that the implementation of protected sleep periods for residents who are assigned to overnight shifts in a hospital could possibly help to prevent fatigue and alleviate some of the physiological and behavioral effects of sleep deprivation among these doctors in training.

Discovery channel to air narcolepsy documentary Saturday

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The program Narcolepsy: New Strategies for Diagnosis and Treatment will premier on Discovery Channel on Saturday, Dec. 8, at 7 a.m. (CST). The documentary follows the daily life of an individual with narcolepsy with cataplexy and features commentary from a group of AASM expert physicians. The documentary will air a second time on Saturday, Dec. 22, at 7 a.m. (CST).

ACOS: Used by as many as one in 10 U.S. residents, study finds

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Nearly 10 percent of U.S. residents, or about 31 million individuals, are receiving health care through an accountable care organization, according to a study released Monday by consulting firm Oliver Wyman. The study found that roughly 2.4 million Medicare beneficiaries are receiving care through ACOs that are participating in CMS' "Medicare Shared Savings Program," while 15 million non-Medicare patients obtain care through those ACOs, Healthcare Finance News reports.

Businesses reassessing models to comply with ACA's coverage mandate

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Many companies that are reliant on low-wage workers are reassessing their business models in light of the Affordable Care Act's mandate that they provide all full-time employees with affordable health insurance by 2014, or pay a penalty.

Hospital and provider groups are seeking a ‘doc fix’ to avert cut

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Hospital and physician groups are meeting with congressional staffers to discuss averting a scheduled reduction to Medicare physician reimbursement rates, which could be included in a larger deficit-reduction deal.

Republicans offer counter deficit-reduction proposal

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Republican leaders released a counter offer to President Obama's deficit-reduction proposal that would raise $800 billion in new tax revenue and calls for $600 billion in automatic tax increases and reductions to federal health care programs in 2013, the Washington Post reports.

EHR incentive payments reach $8.4B

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In a Nov. 28 report, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced that $692 million in electronic health record (EHR) incentive payments were distributed to eligible providers in October. Total payments, which began in 2011, have now reached $8.4 billion.

Section members are encouraged to participate in online discussion forums

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Each membership section has its own discussion forum, which can be accessed through the membership section page, or the main forum page. We encourage you to subscribe to the RSS feed for your Membership Section to get the latest posts delivered to your email client or RSS reader of your choice. To subscribe, look for the RSS icon to the right of the Section Forum on the main forum page. Copy the URL for the icon and paste it into your RSS reader to complete the process.

New AASM Online Learning Modules now available for $25

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Newly created Online Learning Modules are now available for $25 each with 1-year access! Created from our Fall 2012 courses, Online Learning Modules are the easiest way for you to gain expertise in sleep medicine and earn CME credit! Browse our topics and gain instant 1-year access today; visit the AASM Online Learning Center and choose the module that is right for you!

AASM Winter Course - Register now

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Register now for the AASM Winter Course: Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine. Advanced registration ends January 25, 2013. Space is limited at this course; register and book your accommodations now to reserve your seat. All sessions will be held at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel from February 22 - February 24, 2013. As a reminder, February is a popular time of year in Phoenix and this hotel fills up quickly. Book your room now through the AASM website and you’ll receive 15% off golf and spa services on top of complimentary resort fees when you by enter the code: AASM.

Dec. 17 is the last day to submit an abstract for SLEEP 2013

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Individuals interested in presenting their research as an oral or poster presentation must submit their abstract through the SLEEP 2013 submission website. Submission guidelines are available in the Call for Abstracts & Session Proposals. SLEEP 2013 will be held June 1-5, 2013 in Baltimore, Maryland. Submit your abstracts today and join us in the Inner Harbor!

AASM members will receive 12 issues of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine in 2013

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine Editorial Board is pleased to announce that the official peer-reviewed publication of the AASM will publish monthly starting with the 2013 volume year. Members will receive twelve issues instead of six as a free benefit of membership. To ensure uninterrupted service, renew your AASM membership online today.

Extended sleep reduces pain sensitivity

Sat, 01 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Increasing sleep time improves daytime alertness and reduces pain sensitivity

Millions unaware of new health reform coverage options

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Millions of low-income residents who might qualify for new insurance coverage options in 2014 under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) are unaware of the upcoming benefits. In a focus group conducted by Enroll America, a not-for-profit organization, none of the 31 participants were aware of subsidies for individuals with incomes below 400 percent of the federal poverty level or Medicaid for the lowest-income U.S. residents. However, most of the participants were aware of the requirement to purchase coverage under the ACA.

Negotiations addressing sequester deal seems far off

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Although negotiators spent the holiday weekend discussing a deficit reduction deal, a compromise to avoid looming mandated spending reductions under sequestration seems distant. Both Republicans and Democrats have suggested a willingness to work together to reach a deal, but a "wide gap" remains on taxes and changes to entitlement programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, according to the Washington Post.

Sleep testing - 2013 payment analysis

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The 2013 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) final rule was published on Nov. 16. The fee schedule finalizes payment rates for all physician services, including payment rates for sleep testing. Payment for all services in the MPFS is calculated by multiplying the relative value units (RVUs) assigned to each component of the service by the designated conversion factor for the year. This article provides summary information about the payment rates for sleep testing effective Jan. 1, 2013.

AASM President Dr. Sam Fleishman submits comments on “medicalization” of sleep

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The journal Nature recently published comments from AASM President Dr. Sam Fleishman regarding a book review that discussed the “creeping medicalization of sleep.” Dr. Fleishman expressed concern that this sweeping generalization ignores the drastic consequences of insufficient sleep such as an increased risk of illness and accidents as well as a drop in productivity.

AASM Winter Course: Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine - Register early to save!

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Winter Course is pleased to announce its return to the Arizona Biltmore Hotel. Registration and housing are now open but space is limited at this course.

OIG responds to AASM Safe Harbor recommendation

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On Tuesday, Nov. 27, the Office of Inspector General's (OIG) Semiannual Report to Congress was posted on the OIG website. The final pages of the report summarize the OIG’s response to seven proposals and recommendations it received for new or modified “safe harbors,” which would protect health care providers and others from liability under the federal anti-kickback statute or related administrative authorities. The OIG had issued its annual solicitation for such proposals in December 2011.

AASM brochure discounts and closeouts

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Prepare and educate your patients for less by providing the need-to-know information about sleep and sleep disorders through convenient, easy-to-read educational brochures. All current AASM brochures are discounted to $15 for a pack of 50! Discontinued AASM Patient Education Brochures are also marked-down to $10 for a pack of 50.

Monday, Dec. 3 is the last day to submit a session proposal for SLEEP 2013

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Individuals interested in coordinating a presentation for SLEEP 2013, to be held June 1-5, 2013 in Baltimore, Maryland, can submit session proposals through the meeting's website at www.sleepmeeting.org. The last day to submit a session proposal is Monday, Dec. 3 at 11:59pm CT. This deadline includes submissions for the Brown Bag Report sessions.

Hypnogram: Thanksgiving

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Thanksgiving Day is an opportunity for us to spend time with family and friends and reflect on what is most important in our lives. As Cynthia Ozick writes, “We often take for granted the very things that most deserve our gratitude.” As president of the AASM, I want you to know that I am extremely grateful for your loyal support of the sleep medicine field.

Decisions on provider payments, insurance exchanges expected soon

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Obama administration in the near future is expected to announce several decisions on how provisions of the Affordable Care Act will be implemented.

Medicare premiums and deductibles to increase in 2013

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Medicare Part B premiums will increase by $5 per month next year. According the Federal Register, the monthly premium for Medicare Part B will be $104.90, up by 5 percent from $99.90 in 2012. Annual deductibles for Part B also will rise, from $140 to $147.

Congressional leaders optimistic after first round of negotiations

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

President Obama and congressional leaders agreed to a two-stage approach to avoid looming mandated spending cuts under sequestration, which include cuts to Medicare provider payments.

Don't miss this must-attend course for Sleep Medicine Physicians

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Filled with a mix of traditional lectures, case-based discussions and pro/con debates, attendees will discuss new strategies and review updated information with a focus on changing guidelines and regulations in sleep medicine including the Affordable Care Act, diagnosing and managing sleep disorders and business considerations for sleep specialists. Register today and take advantage of waived resort fees and discounts on spa services and golfing when you stay at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix, Arizona from February 22 – February 24, 2013.

Important SLEEP 2013 session proposal deadlines approaching

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The deadline to submit a session proposal is Monday, December 3 and the deadline to submit an abstract is Monday, December 17.

Get the full AASM course experience at your fingertips

Wed, 21 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Streaming on any computer or mobile device, the AASM Online Learning Modules are easy-to-access learning tools that have been captured and developed from previous live AASM Sleep Education Courses. With topics ranging from portable monitoring, CPAP adherence and business of sleep medicine, Online Learning Modules are the easiest way for you to gain expertise from the leaders in sleep medicine all while earning CME Credit! Browse our topics and gain instant access today.

Deadline extended for states to submit health insurance exchange plans

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In a November 9 letter to governors, Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is giving states more time to submit health insurance exchange plans. States planning to run their own exchange are required to notify HHS by November 16. The deadline for submitting an exchange plan has been extended to December 14. States that are planning to pursue a partnership exchange now have until February 15 to submit a plan. The revised deadlines are not expected to affect the January 2014 launch of all state exchanges.

HHS publishes 2013 physician fee schedule

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On November 1, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) published the display copy of final rule for the 2013 physician fee schedule. The rule describes a 26.5 percent payment cut for all services based on the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR) formula.

Congratulations to new AASM Fellow Members

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor which recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field. We are pleased to welcome Jimmy G Gilbert, MD, FAASM, James E Mojica, FAASM and David T Plante, MD, FAASM as new fellow members.

Affordable Care Act impact to be examined at AASM Winter Course

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

During this two-and-a-half-day course, expert faculty will explore state-of-the-art patient care management in the diagnosis and treatment of various disorders and reveal strategies to improve current business practices. Filled with a mix of traditional lectures, case-based discussions and pro/con debates, attendees will discuss new strategies and review updated information with a focus on changing guidelines and regulations in sleep medicine, diagnosing and managing sleep disorders and business considerations for sleep specialists.

Submit a challenging case for the SLEEP 2013 Brown Bag Sessions

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

We encourage all of our members to consider submitting a challenging case for the Brown Bag Report Sessions. During these sessions, an expert panel will review and discuss challenging cases submitted in advance by SLEEP 2013 attendees. The cases will be selected by the Program Committee, and individuals will be notified of whether or not their case is accepted for presentation in February 2013.

Buy the print version of the AASM Scoring Manual today

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

It's here! The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications Version 2.0 Print Edition is now available for purchase. The AASM Scoring Manual is now offered as a print edition add-on to the online subscription. To purchase the print version, you must first be an online subscriber.

AASM and AADSM release joint statement

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

As the number of dentists providing oral appliance therapy has increased in recent years, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) have received inquiries that seek clarification regarding the scope of practice for physicians and dentists in the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

New sleep technology authorization law takes effect in New York

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On August 3, 2012, New York established ‘authorization’ for sleep technologists. Individuals must now hold an authorization certificate from the State Education Department to provide sleep technology services or to use the title “Authorized Polysomnographic Technologist”. Licensed individuals who are already permitted to practice sleep technology services within their scope of practice, including respiratory therapists and respiratory therapy technicians, may continue to do so without obtaining the sleep technology authorization.

Officials say reimbursement reductions to SGR unlikely

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A 2 percent reduction to all Medicare reimbursement and a 27 percent cut to Medicare physician reimbursement rates under the sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula likely will not happen, according to White House and congressional officials, American Medical News reports.

New practice parameters and review on non-respiratory indications for PSG and MSLT in children published in November issue of SLEEP

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Practicing physicians are encouraged to review new practice parameters and an accompanying review published by the AASM in the November issue of the journal SLEEP. Practice Parameters for the Non-Respiratory Indications for Polysomnography and Multiple Sleep Latency Testing for Children Non-Respiratory and Indications for Polysomnography and Related Procedures in Children: An Evidence-Based Review are the first AASM publications on this topic.

Don't miss out on Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

During the two-and-a-half-day long AASM Winter Course, expert faculty will explore state-of-the-art patient care management in the diagnosis and treatment of various disorders. Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine will reveal numerous strategies to improve current business practices. The program includes a mix of traditional lectures, case-based discussions and pro/con debates.

Present your findings to the largest audience of sleep specialists by submitting an abstract or proposal for SLEEP 2013

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

You are invited to submit an abstract or session proposal for SLEEP 2013, the 27th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS). SLEEP 2013 will be held June 1–5, 2013 in Baltimore, Maryland and attracts the largest audience of sleep specialists in the nation. The success of the meeting is attributed to the premier educational opportunities that blend the best clinical practices with the most current research. This unique meeting is only possible with the submission of high-quality abstracts and session proposals from individuals practicing in the fields of sleep medicine and sleep research.

AASM patient education brochures: new topics-new content-new designs

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Prepare and educate patients by providing them with the need-to-know information about sleep and sleep disorders through these convenient, easy-to-read educational brochures. AASM patient brochures offer information including definitions, symptoms, treatment options, tips and answers to frequently asked questions. Brochures are available in packs of 50. Visit the AASM Online Store to preview each AASM patient brochure.

Call for volunteers: serve on AASM Nominating Committee

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Last call: nominations for Board of Directors due Friday

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Each year we elect new leaders who guide the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and address the interests and needs of our members. As the sleep medicine field evolves, the AASM requires strong leaders to set the direction of our organization and connect with members to determine how the organization will support our membership. The AASM invites members to nominate candidates (self-nominations welcome) for service as an at-large member of the Board of Directors.

AASM provides election information to members

Tue, 06 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Over the last several weeks, the AASM has been providing members information about the 2012 election through the Weekly Update and special email alerts. The AASM felt it was important to supply members educational material since the presidency, 33 Senate seats and every Congressional seat was under challenge. This election was significantly important to the health care profession in general and specifically to sleep medicine practitioners since the fate of many essential health policy issues, including the Affordable Care Act and the Sustainable Growth Rate, could be affected.

Renew Today! Your Membership Dues Support the AASM Political Action Committee (AASM PAC)

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Your 2013 membership dues help the AASM PAC support legislators who will champion our Safe Harbor initiative and profession. A Safe Harbor will allow sleep physicians to provide a sleep test and dispense DME to their Medicare patients. It is crucial that the AASM PAC has sufficient funds to keep our industry’s vital interests well represented in Washington, so please renew today. Already renewed but still want to donate? Contribute to the AASM PAC.

CMS Publishes 2014 Clinical Quality Measures (CQM)

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced the clinical quality measures for the Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program. Starting in 2014, all providers will be required to report the new clinical quality measures regardless of whether they are participating in Stage 1 or Stage 2 of the EHR incentive program.

Find a BSM provider using new online directory

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Recently the Society of Behavioral Sleep Medicine (SBSM) compiled a directory of its members who are providing BSM clinical services such as cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) and CPAP desensitization. The directory, which also indicates which members are certified in BSM by the American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM), is an excellent reference source for patients and referring physicians. Go to the SBSM website the next time you need to find a BSM provider in your area.

AASM introduces new patient education website: Sleepeducation.com

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) has launched Sleepeducation.com, a new patient education website. The website provides current, topical content about sleep disorders and disease management, as well as videos that offer additional information on important patient-oriented topics. The improved Find A Center directory of AASM-Accredited Member Centers helps people with sleep illness find the care they need. The directory is now powered by Google Maps, so patients can find the exact route to the sleep center of their choice. The sleep center directory also indicates which facilities are accredited to provide home sleep testing.

Have your scorers claim 12 CECs in one place for free

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Inter-Scorer Reliability assessment system is the easiest way for your center to fulfill the ISR Standards for Accreditation requirement and to evaluate and compare staff. By participating in ISR, your scorers can claim one free CEC per record exam—that’s 12 free CECs per year!

Join us in the Inner Harbor - Submit your SLEEP 2013 proposal today

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

You are invited to submit an abstract or session proposal for SLEEP 2013, the 27th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS). SLEEP attracts the largest audience of sleep specialists in the nation. Scientific abstract or session proposals will be accepted from now through Monday, December 3. Abstract submissions for oral presentations and poster presentations will be accepted from now through Monday, December 17.

Time change is opportunity to reset body clock, get more sleep

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Setting clocks back an hour this weekend (2 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 4) creates an opportunity for millions of sleep-deprived Americans, says the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. “The time change is more than turning the clock back,” says Dr. Sam Fleishman, a board-certified sleep physician who serves as AASM president. “It’s a once a year opportunity to reset your body clock for an extra hour of sleep every night.” The AASM’s new website – www.sleepeducation.com – explains how to use this opportunity to reset your body clock and find help for many sleep disorders.

AASM Winter Course is a MUST-ATTEND course for sleep medicine physicians

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0500

During this two-and-a-half-day course, expert faculty will explore state-of-the-art patient care management in the diagnosis and treatment of various disorders. The course will reveal strategies to improve current business practices. The program includes a mix of traditional lectures, case-based discussions and pro/con debates.

Sleep duration affects hunger differently in men and women

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A new study in the November issue of the journal SLEEP suggests that increasing the amount of sleep that adults get could lead to reduced food intake, but the hormonal process differs between men and women.

Hypnogram: Board of Directors

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The coming weekend, the Board of Directors will meet in Chicago to discuss a broad range of issues that currently affect our Academy and have future implications for sleep medicine. Over the coming weeks, I will share news and announcements from the meeting with you and also provide updates on continuing initiatives led by the Board of Directors.

Nominations accepted for AASM Board of Directors

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Delays in implementation of the Affordable Care Act creates uncertainty for states, insurers

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A delay in implementation of the Affordable Care Act is creating uncertainty among states and health insurers tasked with creating health insurance exchanges. The delay has raised questions about whether the exchanges will be ready to enroll individuals on October 1, 2013, and how many plans will be available.

Analysis looks at states with fewest, most physicians

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

States with higher median incomes and fewer uninsured residents tend to have better physician-to-resident ratios, according to a state-by-state analysis of the physician shortage issue.

2013 eRx payment adjustment hardship exemption requests accepted beginning Nov. 1

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On Nov 1, 2012, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will begin accepting hardship exemption requests for the 2013 Electronic Prescribing (eRx) payment adjustment. Exemption requests will be accepted through Jan 31, 2013. Hardship exemptions must be submitted electronically through the Quality Reporting Communication Support web page.

Proposed payment cuts may result in access to care issue for Medicare patients

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A recent survey conducted by the Medical Group Management Association (MGMA) shows the potential negative impacts of Medicare’s proposed 27% payment cut for 2013. The cut, a result of the sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula, is scheduled to take effect Jan 1, 2013 unless Congress takes action by delaying cuts or repealing the SGR.

Get the full AASM course experience at your fingertips

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Streaming on any computer or mobile device, the AASM Online Learning Modules are easy-to-access learning tools that have been captured and developed from previous live AASM Sleep Education Courses. With topics ranging from basics of sleep center management, sleep center manager boot camp and business of sleep medicine, Online Learning Modules are the easiest way for you to gain expertise from the leaders in sleep medicine all while earning CME Credit! Browse our topics and gain instant access today; visit the AASM Online Learning Center to choose the module that is right for you!

Abstract and session proposals for SLEEP 2013 accepted Friday

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Have your proposals ready to submit for the 27th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS), held on June 1–5, 2013, in Baltimore, Maryland. Scientific abstract or session proposals will be accepted from Friday, October 26 through Monday, December 3. Abstract submissions for oral presentations and poster presentations will be accepted from Friday, October 26 through Monday, December 17. Guidelines for abstracts and proposals are available in the SLEEP 2013 Call for Abstracts and Session Proposals.

Registration is now open for the AASM Winter Course: Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Explore state-of-the-art patient care management in the diagnosis and treatment of various disorders and strategies to improve current business practices with our expert faculty during this two-and-a-half-day course filled with a mix of traditional lectures, case-based discussions and pro/con debates. Attendees will discuss new strategies and learn updated information with a focus on changing guidelines and regulations in sleep medicine, diagnosing and managing sleep disorders and business considerations for sleep specialists. Register today and take advantage of waived resort fees and discounts on spa services and golfing when you stay at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix, Arizona from February 22 – February 24, 2013.

Treatment of obstructive sleep apnea improves blood pressure in men

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Study is the first to examine effectiveness of sleep apnea treatment on high blood pressure and diabetes control in a real-world setting

NIH operating under continuing resolution

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A continuing resolution passed into law on Sept. 28 will allow the Department of Health and Human Services, including the National Institutes of Health to operate through March 27, 2013. The resolution continues government operations at the FY 2012 level plus 0.6 percent until FY 2013 appropriations are enacted. During this time, the NIH will issue non-competing research grant awards at a level less than what was indicated in the most recent Notice of Award.

ACA compliance will have cost states, private employers more than $27B

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

New regulations under the ACA will have cost states and private business more than $27 billion once the law is fully implemented, according to a study by the American Action Forum. According to the study, private businesses will have spent $20 in new compliance costs, while state governments will have spent another $7.2 billion.

Cadillac tax may affect more than half of Massachusetts workers

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

An excise tax on so-called "Cadillac" plans in the Affordable Care Act would affect more than half of workers in Massachusetts when it takes effect in 2018, according to a study by the Pioneer Institute.

Starting next Friday, abstract and session proposals for SLEEP 2013 will be accepted

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Submit a scientific abstract or session proposal today for the 27th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS), held on June 1–5, 2013, in Baltimore, Maryland.

Diagnosing pediatric patients: what you need to know

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Save the date! AASM Winter Course to include health reform and OCST

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Take part in industry-leading discussions while learning critical updates from the nation’s foremost faculty at the AASM Winter Course: Emerging Clinical and Business Trends in Sleep Medicine. During this two-and-a-half day course, a comprehensive review of methods will be presented to help navigate the ever changing environment of Health Care Reform and Out of Center Sleep Testing.

Applications now accepted for 2013 Mini-Fellowship for International Scholars

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine is accepting applications for the 2013 Mini-Fellowship Program for International Scholars. This four-week program provides practical training in clinical sleep medicine to international physicians from lower-income countries so they may develop or improve sleep health care in their home countries.

Hypnogram: Changes for 2013

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Four months into my tenure as President of the AASM, I am continually encouraged by the support shown by my 9,500 colleagues who are members of the Academy. Our Academy’s strength is derived from all of you who volunteer on committees, task forces and other initiatives to advance our mission; utilize programs and services to foster your professional growth; and invest in the ASMF and PAC to promote issues critical to our field. I appreciate your continued support and thank you for being a member of the AASM. As we enter renewal season, I’d like to make you aware of a few changes designed for our members’ benefit.

New pediatric polysomnography codes published in 2013 CPT Codebook

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

This month, the American Medical Association (AMA) published the 2013 edition of the CPT codebook. The AASM is excited to announce that CPT 2013 includes two new codes for pediatric polysomnography.

National Institute of Health accepting application for alcohol abuse, sleep disorders and circadian rhythms

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), invites R21 and R01 applications to conduct studies on the functional relationships between alcohol abuse, circadian rhythms and sleep disorders.

Poll reveals mixed feelings on health reform

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Although there is a high level of approval for nearly all the provisions of the Affordable Care Act, a majority of U.S. residents oppose the overall law, 55% to 45%, according to a new Reuters poll.

State governors miss exchange deadline

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

At least two dozen states missed Health and Human Services (HHS) October 1 soft deadline to submit their essential health benefit benchmark plans. Under the Affordable Care Act, health plans in the exchanges must provide coverage for 10 broad categories of benefits, such as ambulatory patient services, emergency services and pediatric services.

OIG publishes 2013 Work Plan

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On Tuesday, Oct. 2, the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) published their Work Plan for 2013. The OIG Work Plan describes activities the OIG will initiate or continue throughout the year. Through its activities, the OIG seeks to fight waste, fraud and abuse in the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) programs such as Medicare.

Access updated scoring rules today in the new AASM Scoring Manual

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications Version 2.0 is now an exclusively digital publication.

Upcoming workshop: Diagnosing Sleep Disorders in Pediatric Patients

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

During this two-day workshop, expert faculty will review what physicians need to know in order to diagnose and treat sleep disorders in the pediatric population.

Take note! Abstract and session proposals for SLEEP 2013 begin October 26

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Submit a scientific abstract or session proposal today for the 27th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS), held on June 1–5, 2013, in Baltimore, Maryland.

Vacancy Announcement: National Center on Sleep Disorders Research

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The NHLBI has announced an opening for a program director to join the National Center on Sleep Disorders Research (NCSDR) focusing on sleep disorders medicine and the development of a portfolio in sleep research training. This is a full time position with a duty station at the NIH, in Bethesda, MD. NCSDR is located in the NHLBI Division of Lung Diseases, 6701 Rockledge Drive, Bethesda, MD.

Employer-sponsored coverage continues to decline

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The rate of workers with employer-sponsored health insurance plans continues to decline, while the percentage of individuals with public health insurance coverage is increasing, according to a new report from the Employee Benefit Research Institute.

Health and Human Services (HHS) awards state exchange grants to five states, District of Columbia

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Health and Human Services (HHS) announced the distribution of an additional $224 million in establishment grants to five states and the District of Columbia to create health insurance exchanges under the Affordable Care Act.

CMS implements programs targeting hospital readmissions and quality of care

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On Oct. 1, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) implemented two new programs under the Affordable Care Act. The Hospital Value-Based Purchasing Program emphasizes quality of care in the hospital setting by shifting toward a pay-for-performance model. Under the new program, Medicare will withhold 1 percent of reimbursements to acute-care hospitals and redistribute these funds to hospitals that meet high performance standards.

Congratulations new Fellow member of the AASM

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM announces its fifth year offering the Young Investigator Research Forum

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The 2013 AASM Young Investigator Research Forum provides researchers beginning their careers with the opportunity for collegial interaction with successful senior faculty members across a broad spectrum of clinical sleep research. Recent projections show an upcoming shortage of clinical sleep researchers, and in the current climate, research funding is difficult to obtain.

AASM course to focus on sleep disorders for pediatric patients

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

During this two-day workshop, expert faculty will review what physicians need to know in order to diagnose and treat sleep disorders in the pediatric population. Sessions will focus on clinical signs, indications for testing, interpretation of tests and development of treatment plans for pediatric patients. Several lectures will focus on the scoring of sleep stages and events with extensive use of record samples. When pertinent, lectures will include information on business considerations that sleep centers must account for when seeing pediatric patients.

Get the AASM Scoring Manual Version 2.0 when you renew your membership

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications Version 2.0, is now available as an exclusive digital publication. What does this mean for you? You get an ever-evolving document customized for your smartphone, tablet and computer. The easy-to-access digital format allows scorers to quickly search for and bookmark any sleep scoring topic as well as read up on related information using hyperlinks embedded in every section.

SLEEP 2013 abstract and session proposals submission coming soon

Tue, 02 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Guidelines for abstracts and proposals submissions are now available in the SLEEP 2013 Call for Abstracts and Session Proposals. Session proposals will be accepted from Friday, Oct. 26 through Monday, Dec. 3. Abstract submissions for oral presentations and poster presentations will be accepted from Friday, Oct. 26 through Monday, Dec. 17.

Lack of sleep leads to insulin resistance in teens

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A new study suggests that increasing the amount of sleep that teenagers get could improve their insulin resistance and prevent the future onset of diabetes.

Medical advocacy groups warn lawmakers against automatic cuts

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Several Health lobbying groups are warning lawmakers about the negative consequences to the health care industry if the $1.2 trillion in spending cuts scheduled under the sequester take effect in 2013. A White House report found that about $11 billion in total spending would be cut from Medicare, while NIH would lose $2.5 billion.

Six million U.S. residents predicted to face ACA tax penalty in 2016

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In 2016, nearly six million U.S. residents are expected to pay a tax penalty under the Affordable Care Act for not purchasing health insurance, two million more individuals than estimated in April 2010, according to a report released by the Congressional Budget Office.

Health care reform overview: Long-term care

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Over the last several weeks, the AASM has provided a synopsis of certain provisions in the bill. This last synopsis will focus on long-term care. This includes the CLASS Act, Medicaid and requirements under Medicare and nursing facilities under Medicaid.

Bipartisan bill introduced to replace Medicare competitive bidding process

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On Sept. 21 a bill was introduced in the House of Representatives that would replace the Medicare DMEPOS competitive bidding program with market pricing.

BSM Certification Exam application deadline extended to Oct. 5

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The deadline to submit an application for the fall 2012 testing window for the behavioral sleep medicine certification examination administered by the American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM), has been extended to Friday, Oct. 5, 2012.

Prepare for the Sleep Medicine Board Exam

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM's two-and-a-half-day Sleep Medicine Board Review course Oct. 11-14 at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel in Baltimore, Maryland is the best way to start your preparation. With a mixture of didactic sessions on basic sleep mechanisms and evaluation of polysomnograms, case-based lectures on the entire range of sleep disorders in the International Classification of Sleep Disorders, Second Edition and question-based presentations the Sleep Medicine Board Review course is the best way to prepare for the exam.

Purchase the new AASM Scoring Manual online

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is pleased to announce another landmark event in sleep scoring—we’re going digital! The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications will become an exclusively digital publication. What does this mean for you? You get an ever-evolving document in an easy-to-access formats for Smartphones, tablets, and computers.

Hypnogram: Affordable Care Act Advocacy and Education

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Over the past few weeks I have shared several new initiatives the AASM has undertaken to help promote and advance the sleep medicine and your clinical practice, including efforts to brand sleep medicine among the public and establish a Safe Harbor for sleep medicine. In light of the Affordable Care Act, the AASM has been providing members with regular news items in the Weekly Update that highlight provisions within the legislation that affect patient care. I encourage you to read through the healthcare reform overview articles found in this archive in the Legislation section of the AASM website. In addition to education, the AASM is advocating for members on areas related to the Affordable Care Act.

Health care reform overview article directory

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

With the recent Supreme Court decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act, there is much speculation on how this legislation will change clinical practice. While the unknowns are greater than what we currently understand about the ACA, the AASM has been analyzing what is in store for sleep medicine. The AASM has provided synopses of certain provisions in the bill.

Office of Management and Budget report outlines reductions under 2011 Budget Control Act

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In 2013, roughly $11 billion in total spending would be cut from Medicare and millions more from programs under the Affordable Care Act if automatic cuts outlined in the 2011 Budget Control Act (BCA) take effect as scheduled on January 2, 2013 according to a White House Office of Management and Budget report.

Eight states will be most affected by Affordable Care Act reductions

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The $716 billion in Medicare cuts in the Affordable Care Act will be felt disproportionately by insurers and providers in eight heavily populated states, according to a white paper published by the University of Minnesota.

Delaware governor signs sleep technologist licensure bill

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Senate Bill 194 (SB 194), which establishes licensure for polysomnographic technologists, was recently passed by both legislative chambers was signed into law by Governor Markell on Wednesday, Sept. 12. The law requires that on July 1, 2014, any person who is engaged in the practice of Polysomnography in the state of Delaware must be properly trained and licensed.

Health care reform overview: Prevention and wellness

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM has provided continuing analysis of the Affordable Care Act and what it means for sleep medicine. The latest entry in the ongoing series addresses coverage of preventative services. AASM government analysts also review the national components for prevention, wellness and public health activities. The health care reform includes additional provisions for employee wellness programs. The AASM examines these provisions in the full article.

Upcoding of office visits - reported trends spark CMS audit

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Two new reports from the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) and The Center for Public Integrity show that billing trends over the past 10 years reflect a steady increase in billing Medicare for higher paying services. This trend was shown to be particularly prevalent in the billing of established patient office visit codes.

Applications for ABSM Behavioral Sleep Medicine Exam due Sept. 28

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Applications are now being accepted for the Fall 2012 testing window of the Behavioral Sleep Medicine Certification Examination, which is administered by the American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM). Applications must be submitted by September 28, 2012. The BSM examination is open to applicants who possess a valid license and doctoral degree in psychology, nursing or social work, and meet the outlined training/experience requirements.

Attend the Sleep Disorders for the Physician Assistant or Advanced Practice Nurse course on Oct. 6-7

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Physician assistants and advance practice nurses who want to begin seeing patients with sleep disorders can gain a background in sleep medicine by attending the AASM course Sleep Disorders for the Physician Assistant or Advanced Practice Nurse on Oct. 6-7 at the AASM National Office in Darien, IL. The course will provide an overview of sleep and sleep disorders, diagnosis and treatment guidelines for sleep disorders and billing and documentation issues that impact PAs and APNs. Register for the course today, fees have been significantly reduced to help accommodate the needs of PAs and APNs.

Last chance to register for Interpreting Sleep Studies course

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The new The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications will be a central topic in the upcoming Interpreting Sleep Studies course. The course will be held on Sept. 29-30 at the AASM National Office in Darien IL. Sleep medicine professionals interested in how to perform sleep studies to diagnose and manage patients with sleep disorders are encouraged to register.

Get the newly revised AASM Scoring Manual on Oct. 1

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications Version 2.0 is almost here. The revised publication contains new rules for scoring respiratory events, updated content intended to answer common scoring questions and all new figures. The AASM Scoring Manual will be a digital exclusive available through the AASM website. By going digital, we'll be able to provide you with an ever-evolving document that you can access anywhere. Available in multiple formats for your convenience, the publication has been optimized for your smartphone, tablet and desktop.

Premiums for family plans increased by 4.5 percent in 2012

Wed, 12 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Annual premiums for employer-based family health insurance increased by 4.5 percent in 2012, down from a 9 percent increase in 2011, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation and Health Research and Educational Trust'sannual employer health benefits survey. However, the report also found that such premiums have increased by 97 percent since 2002, which is three times faster than wages and inflation.

Health policy positions for 2012 Presidential Elections

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The outcome of this important election may significantly affect the health care profession in general and specifically to sleep medicine practitioners. The fate of many essential health policy issues, including the Affordable Care Act and the Sustainable Growth Rate, could be determined by the outcome of this election. Because of the election’s significance, the AASM is providing members links to the health policy positions for Governor Romney and President Obama so members can review where they stand on the issues that impact your practice.

Health care reform overview: improving quality/health system performance

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

With the recent Supreme Court decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act, there is much speculation on how this legislation will change clinical practice. While the unknowns are greater than what we currently understand about the ACA, the AASM has been analyzing what is in store for sleep medicine. Over the next several weeks, the AASM website will provide a synopsis of certain provisions in the bill. This week will focus on improving quality/health system performance.

CMS publishes stage 2 meaningful use criteria

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In late August, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) published a final rule specifying the stage 2 criteria for the Electronic Health Record (EHR) incentive program. The incentive program provides substantial incentive payments to health care professionals and hospitals that adopt and meaningful use certified EHR technology.

It is not too early to begin studying for the 2013 sleep medicine exam

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM's two-and-a-half-day Sleep Medicine Board Review course on Oct. 11-14 at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel in Baltimore, Maryland is a great head start on your preparation. With a mixture of didactic sessions on basic sleep mechanisms and evaluation of polysomnograms, case-based lectures on the entire range of sleep disorders in the International Classification of Sleep Disorders, Second Edition and question-based presentations the Sleep Medicine Board Review course is the best way to prepare for the exam. Registration is only $1,000 for AASM Members who register before September 13.

Take advantage of the AASM Inter-scorer Reliability 30-day free trial

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

AASM Inter-scorer Reliability assessment system is the easiest, most cost-effective way to meet the inter-scorer reliability requirement in the AASM Standards for Accreditation. A panel of AASM Gold Standard scorers replaces the need for the board certified sleep specialist to serve as an active gold standard for the facility. The system also simplifies the process of demonstrating inter-scorer reliability by collecting and comparing records. You simply need to indicate the use of the AASM Inter-scorer Reliability Assessment System in your policy and procedure manual. Our staff will do the rest! If you haven’t tried the AASM’s Inter-scorer Reliability assessment system, now is a great opportunity to take advantage of our Free 30-day Trial to see how ISR can help your center fulfill this Standard for accreditation.

AASM Scoring Manual to be a digital exclusive

Tue, 11 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications will become an exclusively digital publication. You will get an ever-evolving document in an easy-to-access formats for smartphones, tablets and computers. The digital format will include links to quickly take you to areas of interest, features standardized structure and terminology throughout, includes the scoring manual FAQs and contains updated figures. Look for the option to add the scoring manual to your membership renewal, between October 1 & December 31, and gain exclusive access to the online scoring manual, Version 2.0, before anyone else!

NHLBI soliciting contract for evaluating compliance for oral appliances

Fri, 07 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The NIH National Heart Lung and Blood Institute announced an SBIR/STTR contract funding opportunity for programs that integrate oral appliances and electronic monitoring technologies. The contract solicitation aims for the development of oral appliances devices capable of tracking adherence to satisfy regulatory requirements and facilitate future research and clinical trials.

Hypnogram: Safe Harbor

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

As the present health care system is transformed by policy and technology, the AASM is spearheading efforts to foster a comprehensive sleep health care model for our patients. As I announced, the Board of Directors has approved a public relations plan that brands the sleep team, promotes longitudinal care for patients with sleep disorders, and heightens awareness of sleep among the general public. A concurrent initiative to create a Safe Harbor is launching this month.

Health care reform overview: Cost containment

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

With the recent Supreme Court decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act, there is much speculation on how this legislation will change clinical practice. While the unknowns are greater than what we currently understand about the ACA, the AASM has been analyzing what is in store for sleep medicine. Over the next several weeks, the AASM website will provide a synopsis of certain provisions in the bill. This week will focus on Cost Containment.

AASM encourages members to contact UHC to become contracted OCST providers

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Last month, AASM staff contact UHC regarding their new process for Advanced Notification and Prior Authorization Requirements for Polysomnography and Portable Monitoring for Sleep Related Breathing Disorders. In discussions with the AASM, UHC has confirmed details of the process.

CGS posts new CPAP denial aid

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

CGS, the DME Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) in Jurisdiction C has developed a denial aid website in an effort to clarify documentation requirements and assist suppliers in understanding denials. The website lists categories of denials for PAP devices. The categories expand to include all possible denials associated with that category. For each denial, the associated documentation requirements are listed. References, including links to complete reference documents, are also included.

AASM thanks member recruiters

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Help advance sleep medicine by encouraging your professional colleagues to join the AASM. For each new member recruited, you will receive a $15 Recognition of Excellence Money (REM) Voucher that can be used toward AASM products and course registrations. Each member referral also enters you into a Grand Prize Drawing to win a complimentary 2013 AASM course registration including travel expenses.

Advanced registration for Interpreting Sleep Studies extended to 9/10 - New Scoring Manual updates

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Be among the first to review the changes to The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events by attending the Interpreting Sleep Studies course at the AASM National Office in Darien, IL on Sept. 29-30. The updated manual will debut October 1st; several lectures at the course are devoted to reviewing these changes. Sleep medicine professionals interested in how to perform sleep studies to diagnose and manage patients with sleep disorders are encouraged to take advantage of the extended advanced registration date, Sept 10 (by 9am EST). This is your last chance to save $75 on registration fees!

Secure your seat for the Sleep Medicine Board Review course - Advanced registration ends 9/13

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Planning to take the 2013 ABMS examination? You should also plan to attend the AASM's two-and-a-half-day Sleep Medicine Board Review course on Oct. 11-14 at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel in Baltimore, Maryland. This course provides an excellent opportunity to earn up to 20.50 CME credits while participating in a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art of sleep medicine. New this year - the course has been updated to include several question-based lectures to test your knowledge using real-life cases. Complimentary access to the AASM online Sleep Medicine Practice Exam - a value of $150 - will be provided to all registered attendees following this course. Registration is only $1000 for AASM Members who register before September 13. Register today to secure your seat; this course sells out every year it's offered!

AASM Inter-scorer Reliability introduces new improvements based on user feedback

Wed, 05 Sep 2012 00:00:00 -0500

These updates include: A completely redesigned user-friendly website; free CEC for all scorers; a time measurement system for added precision; customized montages and channel settings; monthly record review videos; a Panel of Gold Standard Scorers to promote more consistent scoring; a scoring blog for users to interact with the Panel of Gold Standard Scorers; and more!

American Academy of Pediatrics publishes clinical guideline on sleep apnea in children

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A new American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guideline recommends that children who frequently snore should be tested for obstructive sleep apnea. The clinical practice guideline "Diagnosis and Management of Childhood Obstructive Sleep Apnea" was published in the September 2012 issue of Pediatrics.

Health care reform overview: changes to private insurance

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

With the recent Supreme Court decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act, there is much speculation on how this legislation will change clinical practice. While the unknowns are greater than what we currently understand about the ACA, the AASM has been analyzing what is in store for sleep medicine. Over the next several weeks, the AASM website will provide a synopsis of certain provisions in the bill. This week will focus on Changes to Private Insurance.

Position open for Medical Officer at the National Center on Sleep Disorders Research

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) is accepting applications from eligible candidates for the position of Medical Officer at the National Center on Sleep Disorders Research (NCSDR). The Medical Officer is expected to focus on sleep disorder medicine and the development of a portfolio in sleep research training.

CMS announces one-year delay to ICD-10

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On Friday, Aug. 24, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) published a final rule extending the compliance date for ICD-10 from Oct. 1, 2013 to Oct. 1, 2014.

AASM encourages members to contact UHC to become contracted providers of OCST

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In early August, AASM members across the country were contacted by UnitedHealthcare (UHC) regarding their new process for Advanced Notification and Prior Authorization Requirements for Polysomnography and Portable Monitoring for Sleep Related Breathing Disorders. The new process promotes the use of out of center sleep testing (OCST) and establishes an advance notification and/or prior authorization requirement for all in-center sleep testing.

Board review course: save up to $595 when you register before Sept. 13

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Save up to $595 when you register before Sept. 13 physicians who need a comprehensive review of sleep disorders and treatments or who are planning to take the 2013 ABMS examination in sleep medicine should also plan to attend the AASM's two-and-a-half-day Sleep Medicine Board Review course on Oct. 11-14 at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel in Baltimore, Maryland.

Registration for this new AASM course ends Sept. 7

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is hosting a new one-and-a-half-day course, Sleep Disorders for the Physician Assistant or Advanced Practice Nurses at the AASM National Office in Darien, IL on Oct. 6-7. Physician assistants and advanced practice nurses looking for an overview of normal sleep; common sleep disorders; diagnosing and treating sleep disorders; and billing and documentation are encouraged to sign up for this course on or before Sept. 7 for advanced registration savings.

Inter-scorer Reliability Testing will be down Sept. 1-5 in advance of major system upgrade

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Inter-scorer Reliability program is currently being updated based on feedback from users; the website will be down beginning at midnight (12:00AM CST) September 1^st through September 5^th, 2012. Participants will not be able to access the site or any records while the system is down; a notification will sent to all ISR participants when the site and September record is available.

New employment opportunities available on AASM Job Board

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Job Board is a quick and easy way to find new employment opportunities in sleep related fields. The job board on the AASM website features dozens of positions in sleep for researchers, physicians, technologists and managers. Currently, there are job listings for 16 states. AASM members and non-members can browse online listings and apply for jobs free of charge. Posting a job opening on the AASM Job Board is quick and easy for employers; AASM members receive a discount on each classified ad.

Hypnogram: SAFE-D and SAFE-T

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

As I discussed in the last HypnoGram, the AASM is continuing its commitment to awareness of sleep disorders among the public through a branding and public relations initiative set to launch this fall. I’d like to tell you about other efforts by the AASM to promote awareness of sleep disorders and their effects.

Medicare anti-fraud teams get boost from Affordable Care Act

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The federal health reform law will arm Medicare anti-fraud teams with sophisticated tools and funding to better identify individuals seeking to profit from the program.

Health care reform overview: Tax changes to finance health care reform

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Affordable Care Act includes an array of tax changes affecting individuals, employers, medical service providers, drug companies, health insurers and other businesses. AASM government analysts provide a synopsis of provisions of the bill that effect taxes.

Aetna set to buy Coventry Health Care

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In an Aug. 20 news release, Aetna and Coventry Health Care Inc. announced an agreement under which Aetna will acquire Coventry in a transaction which is valued at $7.3 billion. As a result of the agreement, Aetna is expected to add over 5 million total members across their commercial businesses, Medicare Part D, Medicare advantage and Medicaid. It is estimated that the acquisition will close in mid-2013.

CMS opens Round 1 of DMEPOS Competitive Bidding Recompete

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced that registration is open to suppliers interested in participating in Round 1 of the Recompete of the Medicare DMEPOS Competitive Bidding Program. The Competitive Bidding Program was mandated by Congress in 2003. It requires that current fee schedule methodology be replaced with a competitive bid process. Under this process, suppliers operating a particular competitive bidding area (CBA) submit bids for products. View the full article to find which competitive bidding areas are included in the recomplete.

Advanced registration for Interpreting Sleep Studies course ends Aug. 31

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is hosting a revamped version of its Interpreting Sleep Studies course at the AASM National Office in Darien, IL on Sept. 29-30. With the increasing use portable monitoring for the diagnosis of sleep disorders, the AASM has added sessions on interpreting out of center sleep studies. Sleep medicine professionals interested in how to perform sleep studies to diagnose and manage patients with sleep disorders are encouraged to sign up for the course on or before Aug. 31 to save on registration fees. Complimentary access to the AASM's online sleep study scoring test will be available following the course.

Applications for ABSM Behavioral Sleep Medicine Certification Exam due Sept. 28

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Applications are now being accepted for the fall 2012 testing window of the behavioral sleep medicine certification examination, which is administered by the American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM). The examination will be administered by Kryterion from Oct. 1 - Nov. 16, 2012.

Sleep medicine board exam: it's not too early to prepare for 2013

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Physicians who need a comprehensive review of sleep disorders and treatments or who are planning to take the next ABMS examination in sleep medicine in 2013 should attend the AASM's two-and-a-half-day Sleep Medicine Board Review course on Oct. 11-14 at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel in Baltimore.

Video: New NHLBI leader holds introductory town hall

Wed, 22 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Dr. Gary H. Gibbons, the new acting director of the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, hosted a recent town hall meeting to introduce himself to the scientific community. In the meeting he laid out the fiscal and scientific challenges that the NHLBI faces. Responding to those challenges,Dr. Gibbons shared his vision on how the institution can adapt to the changing environment. A video of Dr. Gibbon's presentation is available in the full story.

Qualaquin manufacturer warns against off-label use for treatment of nocturnal leg cramps

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

AR Scientific, Inc, the manufacturer of the malaria drug Qualaquin (Quinine), warns that misuse of the drug could result in serious or life-threatening hematologic complications. Quinine is intended to be used as a treatment for malaria. Some physicians have prescribed the drug off-label to treat nocturnal leg cramping.

NIH funding opportunity: career development program in omics of lung diseases

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The NIH National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) recently issued a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for the development of programs that would equip young investigators with the ability to apply pan-omics and integrated approaches to studying lung diseases. Letters of intent for the funding opportunity Career Development Program in Omics of Lung Diseases (K12)(RFA-HL-13-023) are due on Sept. 26. For more information, view the funding opportunity announcement on the NIH website.

Gary H. Gibbins, MD begins NHLBI director role

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week, Gary H. Gibbons, became acting director of the NIH National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Gibbons is the founding director of the Morehouse School of Medicine Cardiovascular Research Institute in Atlanta. He replaces Susan Shurin, MD, who served as acting director for the previous two and half years

61 percent of U.S. businesses expect health care costs to increase under health reform law

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Sixty-one percent of businesses expect to pay more for their workers' health coverage when the Affordable Care Act fully takes effect in 2014, according to a survey of 1,203 companies conducted by Mercer. The survey found that 20 percent of respondents said they expect their costs to increase by at least 5 percent.

Health care reform overview: premium and cost-sharing subsidies

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Beginning in 2014, individuals who purchase health insurance coverage through the new health insurance exchanges will be eligible for financial assistance if their income is no more than 400 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL). These amounts are updated for inflation annually and vary by family size. In 2010, this amount is $43,320 for individuals and $88,200 for a family of four.

New state-by-state compliance resources

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On Aug. 1, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released the Provider Compliance Interactive Map, which provides state-by-state information for organizations that monitor compliance for CMS. The map lists organizations' contact information including websites, email addresses and phone numbers. The map also provides brief descriptions of the types of monitoring performed by each organization.

CMS set to release Final Rule on ICD-10 delay

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is expected to publish a final rule which will announce a delay in the compliance date for ICD-10. As the AASM previously announced, CMS published a proposed rule in April which recommended a one-year delay to the implementation of ICD-10. The new date of compliance would be Oct. 2014. CMS solicited comment on the proposed delay.

Major changes to the AASM Inter-scorer Reliability Program coming soon

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM launched its Inter-scorer Reliability Program to help sleep centers meet the AASM accreditation standards for inter-scorer reliability. Since the program began in 2010, it has saved numerous accredited center valuable time; over 80 percent of users would recommend this program to their colleagues. Based on valuable feedback from users, the program is currently being updated.

SLEEP 2012 course books available only until Aug. 31

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Did you miss out on SLEEP 2012’s most popular courses because they sold out early? Don’t worry! We have all the latest findings from the SLEEP 2012 postgraduate courses available for purchase in convenient PDF format. Individual course books are $50 for AASM members, but only members can save 50 percent by purchasing the SLEEP 2012 Course Book Bundle. Don’t wait too long; the SLEEP 2012 course books are only available until August 31!

AASM Sleep Medicine Board Review course updated for 2012

Wed, 15 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Physicians who need a comprehensive review of sleep disorders and treatments or who are planning to take the 2013 ABMS examination in sleep medicine should also plan to attend the AASM's two-and-a-half-day Sleep Medicine Board Review course on Oct. 11-14 at the Renaissance Harborplace Hotel in Baltimore, MD. This course will provide a comprehensive review of sleep medicine presented by expert faculty of basic researchers, academicians and clinicians at the forefront of the field.

Hypnogram: The role of the sleep physician

Fri, 10 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Every day we hear from our patients that the care they receive for their sleep disorders has transformed their lives. The sleep health care provided by an expert team – captained by board certified sleep medicine physicians – improves their health, job performance, relationships and well-being.

2011 survey: Nearly a third of physicians unwilling to accept new Medicaid patients

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In a recent survey, 31 percent of physicians indicated that they were unwilling to accept any new Medicaid patients. An article in the Health Affairs disseminated data from the 2011 National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey.

New practice parameters on restless legs syndrome published in August issue of SLEEP

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Practicing physicians are encouraged to review two new practice parameters published by the AASM in the August issue of the journal SLEEP. The Treatment of Restless Legs Syndrome and Periodic Limb Movement Disorder in Adults- An Update for 2012: Practice Parameters with an Evidence-Based Systematic Review and Meta-Analsyses and an accompanying update letter to the editor effectively replace practice parameters from 2004 and 1999. Since that period, extensive research has demonstrated that two pharmacological treatments for restless legs syndrome, pramipexole and ropinirole, are effective with limited adverse effects.

Large companies expect health costs to increase next year

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Large employers expect health care costs to increase by about 7% next year, according to a survey by the National Business Group on Health (NBGH). The expected increase for 2013 is about the same as what employers projected in 2012.

Health care reform overview: Expansion of public programs

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

With the recent Supreme Court decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act, there is much speculation on how this legislation will change clinical practice. While the unknowns are greater than what we currently understand about the ACA, the AASM has been analyzing what is in store for sleep medicine. Over the next several weeks, the AASM website will provide a synopsis of certain provisions in the bill. This week will focus on the expansion of public programs.

Data breaches affect nearly 21 million - reflect need for online security measures

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Protected health information data breaches are common, affect millions and can result in large fines. Has your sleep center developed policies and procedures for electronic information security to protect itself against information breaches? Don't let your sleep center be at risk of a data breach.

Case-based course to discuss out of center sleep testing (OCST)

Wed, 08 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM thanks its July member recruiters

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

By recruiting your colleagues to join the AASM, you reinforce our impact on the future of sleep medicine. Membership growth strengthens our organization’s presence and voice, so it’s imperative that current members explain the value of membership to their colleagues and urge them to apply. New members can take advantage of prorated dues for the remainder of the year, so regular dues are now just $125 through 2012! Recruitment tips and materials are posted on the Member-Get-A-Member website.

Portable monitoring to be discussed at upcoming Interpreting Sleep Studies course

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

AMA publication profiles changing sleep testing model

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 00:00:00 -0500

An article in the July 30 edition of the American Medical News, the official publication of the American Medicine Association, examines how the sleep center business is adjusting to increasing pressures to provide higher quality care at a lower cost. Current AASM President Sam Fleishman, MD and AASM Past President Lawrence Epstein, MD both offer up how their sleep centers are using new technology and care models to respond to market changes. Read the full article on the AMA website.

Workers wary of access to adequate coverage, survey finds

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

About 53% of U.S. workers say they are not confident that they will be able to find similar or better health coverage in the insurance exchanges than they currently receive through their employers, according to a survey by the National Business Group on Health. The survey found that health insurance is the most vital benefit that employers can offer, with 87% of respondents saying that health insurance is very or extremely important, up from 84% in a similar 2007 survey.

Health care reform overview: employer requirements

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

With the recent Supreme Court decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act, there is much speculation on how this legislation will change clinical practice. While the unknowns are greater than what we currently understand about the ACA, the AASM has been analyzing what is in store for sleep medicine. Over the next several weeks, the AASM website will provide a synopsis of certain provisions in the bill. This week will focus on employer requirements.

HHS announces new fraud prevention partnership

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Department of Health and Human Services announced a new fraud prevention partnership comprised of both private and public players. The companies and public organizations have joined efforts to “share information and best practices in order to improve detection and prevent payment of fraudulent health care billings.” Specifically, Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and Attorney General Eric Holder identified a desire to share tips about schemes, billing codes and “geographical fraud hotspots” to encourage quick action. The partnership includes a number of large insurance plans as well as both the US Department of Health and Human Services and the US Department of Justice.

Submit your questions about the Affordable Care Act on the AASM LinkedIn Group

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is offering members the opportunity to have their questions about health care reform answered by AASM government analysts. Members can submit their questions on the AASM official LinkedIn Group. These questions will be compiled and answered in an upcoming free online session to be announced soon.

Legislation introduced to delay to Medicare payment cuts by one year

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On July 18, Rep. Michael Burgess (R-Texas) introduced legislation to extend Medicare physician payment rates for one year. The bill, called the Assuring Medicare Stability and Access for Seniors Act of 2012, addresses projected cuts to overall payment described in the CY 2013 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule. The proposed rule, published earlier this month, includes an almost 30% cut to the conversion factor, which is used to establish payment rates for all physician services under Medicare.

We’re advocating for you and hope you’ll do the same for us!

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

By recruiting your colleagues to join the AASM, you reinforce our impact on the future of sleep medicine. Membership growth strengthens our organization’s presence and voice, so it’s imperative that current members explain the value of membership to their colleagues and urge them to apply. New members can take advantage of prorated dues for the remainder of the year, so regular dues are now just $125 through 2012! For recruitment tips and materials, please visit the AASM Member-Get-A-Member website.

Impact factors place SLEEP, JCSM among leading journals in the field

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is pleased to announce that the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine received its first impact factor of 3.232, placing it third among all non-review journals on sleep. The leading journal, SLEEP, remains in the top tier among all peer-reviewed scientific journals. For the third year in a row, the impact factor for SLEEP exceeded 5.0. The impact factor for the journals is calculated based on the number of citations articles within the journal received in other scientific publications. Journals with a higher impact factor are generally viewed as more influential and important in their fields.

9 percent of U.S. employers plan to drop coverage, study finds

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Nearly one in 10 U.S. employers plans to drop health coverage for their workers within the next three years, according to a Deloitte study expected to be released shortly, the Wall Street Journal reports.

Health care reform overview: the individual mandate

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

With the recent Supreme Court decision to uphold the Affordable Care Act, there is much speculation on how this legislation will change clinical practice. While the unknowns are greater than what we currently understand about the ACA, the AASM has been analyzing what is in store for sleep medicine. Over the next several weeks, the AASM website will provide a synopsis of certain provisions in the bill. This week will focus on the individual mandate.

Save the date: AASM Winter Course to be held Feb. 22-24

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Review the latest treatment plans for sleep disorders and learn about the newest business trends and how the health care reform will affect your practice by attending the AASM winter course. In 2013, the AASM winter course will return to the Arizona Biltmore, in Phoenix. With an average temperature of more than 70 degrees in February, attendees will be able to enjoy the many outdoor amenities of the Arizona Biltmore including eight swimming pools, two PGA golf courses and seven tennis courts. Information about registration and the course agenda will be released later this year.

AASM to offer course on sleep disorders for physician assistants and advance practice nurses

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Physician assistants and advance practice nurses who want to begin seeing patients with sleep disorders can gain a background in sleep medicine by attending the AASM course Sleep Disorders for the Physician Assistant or Advanced Practice Nurse on Oct. 6-7 at the AASM National Office in Darien, IL. The course will provide an overview of sleep and sleep disorders, diagnosis and treatment guidelines for sleep disorders and billing and documentation issues that impact PAs and APNs. Registration for this course has been significantly reduced to help accommodate the needs of PAs and APNs. Registration is only $100.00 for AASM Members who register before September 7.

American Academy of Sleep Medicine Statement on the Use of Provigil

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Provigil, which comprises the drug modafinil, is a stimulant that originally received FDA approval in 1998. A variation of the medication, marketed as Nuvigil and composed of armodafinil, was approved by the FDA in 2007.

Updated Interpreting Sleep Studies course to include sessions on OCST

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Interpreting Sleep Studies course will be held September 29-30 at the AASM National Office in Darien, IL. The popular course focuses on the interpretation of sleep studies to diagnose and treat sleep disorders. As out-of-center sleep testing becomes more prevalent throughout the country, lectures on this important topic have been added to this annual course.

Hypnogram: Affordable Care Act

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

With the recent 5-4 decision of the Supreme Court to uphold the Affordable Care Act, there is much speculation on how this legislation will change clinical practice as more than 32 million Americans are expected to enter the health care system. While the unknowns are greater than what we currently understand about the ACA, the AASM has been analyzing what is in store for sleep medicine. Over the next several weeks, we will provide you with summaries of relevant sections of the Act and the corresponding requirements. Hopefully this information will help equip you in moving forward with your practice.

Deadline for ASMF Humanitarian Projects Award application approaching

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Applications for the 2012 Cycle of the American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) Humanitarian Projects Award are due Monday, July 23. The primary objective of the award is to provide support to projects that address sleep problems in underprivileged populations. The ASMF is particularly interested in projects that develop or promote novel approaches to address human suffering as it relates to inadequate sleep or sleep disorders in disadvantaged groups.

House GOP funding bill would "terminate" AHRQ and ban federal funding of patient-centered outcomes research

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Representative Denny Rehberg (R-Montana), chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services (HHS), Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, released his version of the subcommittee's fiscal year 2013 appropriations bill funding the departments of Labor, Education, HHS, and related agencies.

Automatic federal spending cuts scheduled for 2013 would significantly affect HHS

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Automatic reductions in federal spending scheduled to take effect in 2013 would result in a 7.8 percent reduction in the budget for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). If these cuts take effect it would lead to the elimination of 2,300 new and competing NIH research project grants, and the downsizing of numerous other federal health programs.

Final chance to submit SLEEP 2013 speaker recommendations

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Wednesday, July 17 is the final day to submit your recommendations for SLEEP 2013 presenters. The27th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC will be held June 1-5 at the Baltimore Convention Center. The APSS is seeking recommendations for keynote speakers, invited lecturers and meet the professors

Drowsy driving education offered online for commercial drivers

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Long an advocate of safe transportation through rested and alert commercial operators, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) is now offering a free online presentation for truckers describing the signs, causes and effects of driver fatigue and some strategies to manage it.

The AASM thanks its top June recruiters

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Member recruiters help advance sleep medicine by encouraging their professional colleagues to join the AASM. For each new member recruited, these individuals receive a $15 Recognition of Excellence Money (REM) Voucher that can be used toward AASM products and course registrations. Each member referral also enters recruiters into a Grand Prize Drawing to win a complimentary 2013 AASM course registration including travel expenses. Learn how to participate in the AASM Member-Get-A-Member Campaign.

Last week to apply for 2012 RST exam

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM) Sleep Technologist Registry Examination application deadline is July 16. In order to sit for the exam, which will be offered during the testing window of Aug. 11 – Sept. 7, individuals must submit a completed Sleep Technologist Registry Examination application.

Popular Interpreting Sleep Studies course to be offered in September

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Register today for the Interpreting Sleep Studies course to be held September 29-30 at the national office in Darien, Illinois. This course is intended for sleep medicine professionals interested in a case-based review of how to perform and interpret sleep studies to diagnosis and manage patients with sleep disorders. Sessions will focus on clinical signs, indications for testing, interpretation of polysomnography, actigraphy and out of center sleep testing (OCST) and development of treatment plans.

CMS publishes CY 2013 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On Friday, July 6 the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) published a proposed rule recommending changes to payment for the Medicare program for calendar year (CY) 2013. Recommendations made in the proposed rule will be reviewed and, based on comment from the public, may be finalized in the final rule which will be published in November.

Sleep deprivation effect on the immune system mirrors physical stress

Sat, 30 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Study looks at white blood cell counts following 29 hours of continual wakefulness

AASM needs your support to help us succeed in our advocacy efforts

Fri, 29 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Over the last several months the AASM has been very active meeting with legislators and administrators in Washington, D.C. to educate and obtain their support on our Safe Harbor proposal. As our members know, the current Medicare practice model of care for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is fragmented. Current policy and Federal law prevents a sleep physician from providing a sleep test and dispensing the therapeutic durable medical equipment (DME).

AASM introduces driver fatigue awareness program SAFE-D

Fri, 29 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine is working to increase awareness about driver fatigue as families hit the road for the summer peak driving season. According to a recent study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, an estimated 16.5 percent of all fatal crashes involved a fatigued driver. As a response to these alarming numbers, the AASM recently launched a new public education campaign called SAFE-D: Sleep, Alertness and Fatigue Education for Drivers.

SAFE-D Teaching Sleep, Alertness and Fatigue Education to Drivers

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Free online presentation introduced at aasmnet.org for peak driving season

Supreme Court health care decision expected today

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The United States Supreme Court is expended to hand down its much-anticipated ruling on the constitutionality of President Obama's health care reform law sometime today. No one outside of the court knows what decision the justices have made. The announcement is likely to be made sometime after 9 a.m. CST. AASM government analysts are closely following this story and will keep members updated. For live updates, follow the AASM on Twitter at @AASMorg.

Hypnogram: An Introduction

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Welcome to my first edition of the HypnoGram. This blog, started by Nancy Collop, has been a helpful resource for members, and I intend to maintain an open line of communication with you. Throughout the year, I will keep you updated on initiatives of the Board of Directors, thoughts on the state of the sleep field, and new programs and services the AASM is introducing for you.

Transcript of Dr. Collop's speech at SLEEP 2012

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A transcript of the speech delivered by AASM President Nancy Collop, MD at the SLEEP 2012 AASM Membership Meeting.

Transcript of SLEEP 2012 speech by incoming President Sam Fleishman

Wed, 27 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

This article contains a transcript of the speech delivered by then-incoming AASM President Sam Fleishman at the SLEEP 2012 membership meeting.

Louisiana passes Senate Bill 637

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Governor Bobby Jindal signed Senate Bill 637 (SB 637) into law. SB 637 amends the Louisiana Polysomnographic Practice Act (“Act”) by postponing licensure for sleep technologists until 2017.

Delaware passes legislation to license sleep technologists

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the Delaware Sleep Society! Senate Bill 194 (SB 194), which establishes licensure for sleep technologists, was recently passed by both legislative chambers and has been submitted to the Governor for signature! The bill will require that on July 1, 2014, any person who is engaged in the practice of sleep technology must be licensed.

DoT launches Railroaders' Guide to Healthy Sleep website

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

U.S. Department of Transportation launched an interactive, multimedia website intended to reduce on-the-job fatigue among railroad employees by advising them on the importance of obtaining healthy sleep to maintain individual well-being, safety and workplace performance. The Railroaders’ Guide to Healthy Sleep website features an anonymous self-test to screen for possible sleep disorders, a sleep and wake diary for tracking sleep and various tailored and effective strategies for improving the amount and quality of sleep obtained.

Help promote sleep within NINDS’s stroke research plan

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), the main institute for stroke at the National Institutes of Health, is in the second phase of reviewing new or unmet challenges and opportunities in stroke research.

Nominate speakers for SLEEP 2013

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Submit your recommendations for speakers for SLEEP 2013 27^th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC which will be held June 1-5, 2013 at the Baltimore Convention Center in Baltimore, Maryland. This is your opportunity to influence programming for SLEEP 2013!

Submit your AASM Membership survey by Friday

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Board of Directors is asking for AASM members' assistance in guiding the strategic priorities for the organization and the field of sleep medicine as a whole. Last month, a group of randomly selected AASM members ranked their top five priorities. The AASM Board of Directors extended the survey to include all regular members last week.

Registration now open for AASM Fall courses

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Online registration is now available for all four AASM courses offered this Fall. In each of these courses, expert faculty will provide sleep medicine practitioners and allied health professionals interested in learning more about sleep medicine with in-depth, timely and relevant information that will improve their knowledge and understanding of sleep medicine disorders and other issues related to the field. A full schedule for each of these courses, including session listings, is available in the AASM Fall Course Brochure.

RST exam application deadline extended to July 16

Tue, 26 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM) has extended the application deadline for the Sleep Technologist Registry Examination to July 16, 2012. The exam will be offered during a testing window of Aug. 11 – Sept. 7. The fee for the examination is $250.

Report: recent regulations to limit tired air traffic controllers repeatedly violated

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Washington Post reports recent regulations intended to keep air traffic controllers from falling asleep on the job have been violated nearly 4,000 times. The regulations require controllers have at least nine hours off between shifts. Internal Federal Aviation Administration documents show that more than half of the airport control towers violated this rule at least once.

Materials available from NTSB SLEEP 2012 keynote "From Bench to Planes Trains and Automobiles"

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

At the SLEEP 2012 Plenary Session, Mark Rosekind, PhD, a National Transportation Safety Board Member, delivered a memorable keynote speech on the dangers of fatigue across all modes of transportation. Materials from Dr. Rosekind's speech are now available through the NTSB. This includes a full powerpoint of his presentation, and a call to action on the NTSB Director's blog.

CMS Announces New Refill Requirements for DMEPOS

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In simultaneous announcements distributed by all four DME MACs, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced a change to the refill requirements for DMEPOS items and supplies provided on a recurring basis. The new requirements cover a number of different types of DMEPOS including but not limited to CPAP.

Version 5010 implementation and eRx hardship exemptions due June 30

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced that on June 30, 2012 it will begin enforcement of the required transition to Version 5010 for all HIPAA covered transactions. CMS has announced that on that same date it will begin enforcement of the required transition to Version 5010 for all HIPAA covered transactions.

Findings showcased at SLEEP 2012 make national news

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Research highlighted at SLEEP 2012, the 26th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC, generated headlines all week.

Commemorate your time in Boston with SLEEP 2012 polo shirts

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Commemorate SLEEP 2012 by ordering a SLEEP 2012 shirt TODAY! The red polo shirts are identical to the shirts worn by AASM staff throughout the week. Orders will be accepted through Friday, June 29. Complete the order form and submit it via fax to 630-737-9789.

Join us for SLEEP 2013 in the Baltimore Inner Harbor

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Next year, the Associated Professional Sleep Societies will return to Baltimore, Maryland, for the first time since 2008. SLEEP 2013 will be held June 1-5, 2013 at the Baltimore Convention Center, located in Baltimore's Inner Harbor. The headquarter hotel for SLEEP 2013 will be the Hilton Baltimore. The APSS will begin accepting abstracts and session proposals later this fall.

Purchase digital access to SLEEP 2012 course books

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The latest findings from the SLEEP 2012 postgraduate courses are now accessible even if you could not attend these sold-out sessions. Course books from all 12 SLEEP 2012 postgraduate courses, held on June 9-10 in Boston, are available for purchase in a downloadable pdf format. This includes the most popular courses that sold out early, such as "Year in Review", "Hot Topics and Controversies in Pediatric Sleep Medicine" and "State of the Art for Clinical Practitioners." Save 50 percent by purchasing the SLEEP 2012 Course Book Bundle, which includes all of the course books.

Claim Continuing Medical Education (CME) credit for attending SLEEP 2012

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In order to claim credit for sessions attended at SLEEP 2012, the Annual Meeting of the Professional Sleep Societies, in Boston, you must enter your information on the SLEEP 2012 Continuing Education Credit page on or before October 1, 2012.

New class of sleep medication debuts in SLEEP 2012 presentation

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Findings based on efficacy trials using suvorexant, a new class of sleep medications, to treat insomnia made a splash during a late-breaking abstract session Wednesday at SLEEP 2012, the 26^th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies. Researchers and the drug manufacturer Merck report suvorexant significantly reduced the time it took for patients to fall asleep and increase the amount of time patients stayed asleep compared to a placebo.

Pivotal evidence shows potential for new class of sleep medicines

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A potential new class of sleep medicines that target and block the chemical messengers in the brain that help keep people awake was presented today at SLEEP 2012 with new pivotal efficacy trials.

SLEEP 2012 coverage continues on a national level

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On Tuesday, SLEEP 2012, the 26^th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC, received attention from numerous national media outlets.

Research shows how exposure to violence impacts children's sleep

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Victimization, witnessing homicide have greater effects on quality and quantity of sleep.

OSA linked to increased risk for carbohydrate craving among diabetics

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Authors of study encourage physicians to screen diabetics for obstructive sleep apnea

Men using CPAP see improvement in sexual function, satisfaction

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Study shows erectile dysfunction common in sleep apnea sufferers under age 60

Studies show sleep times influenced by race, ethnicity and country of origin

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

White, American-born adults sleep longer than blacks, Hispanics, Indians and Asians

Obesity, depression found to be root causes of daytime sleepiness

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Three studies put obesity and depression at the top, higher than not getting enough sleep

Studies show connection between sleepiness and careers of pro athletes

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Sleepier NFL, MLB players get cut or retire early at rates higher than average

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) persisting into teens can impact life skills

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Behaviors, emotions and social interactions affected in study of 10- to 16-year-olds

PAP therapy improves depressive symptoms in patients with OSA

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Study sees improvement for all, even those failing to use PAP as prescribed

SLEEP 2012 research makes national news Monday

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Research highlighted at SLEEP 2012, the 26th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC, generated headlines in the first day of its scientific program.

Give your feedback by evaluating SLEEP 2012 sessions

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

All SLEEP 2012 attendees are encouraged to evaluate each session they attend throughout the June 9-13 conference. Visit www.sleepmeeting.org/evaluations at any time during the meeting to rate speakers and sessions. The SLEEP Program Committee will use your feedback to plan future events. The evaluations site will close on June 15.

Under 6 hours of sleep tops risks for stroke in a low-risk population

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Risk greatest for employed middle- to older ages, normal weight and no sleep apnea

Some adults with sleep disturbances are actually afraid of the dark, study says

Mon, 11 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Small sample of students showed 46 percent became roused at bedtime because of a dark-phobia

Brain scans show specific neuronal response to junk food when sleep-restricted

Sun, 10 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

More food, fat eaten after a period of sleep restriction compared with habitual sleep periods

MRI scans show how sleep loss affects the ability to choose proper foods

Sun, 10 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep deprivation impacts higher brain areas making choices, not basic reward centers

Sleep deprivation may lead to higher anxiety levels, fMRI scans show

Sun, 10 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Emotional reactivity elevated from sleep loss, particularly in those already anxious

Help promote sleep within NINDS stroke research plan

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Anticipation over Supreme Court’s ruling on health reform prompts concern about law's provisions

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Supreme Court is expected to rule on the constitutionality of the federal health reform law and the individual mandate later this month. The anticipation and debate over the ruling has stakeholders and lawmakers concerned about the future of the law's popular consumer benefit provisions.

Concerns about Congress' ability to address 'doc fix' this year

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Healthcare stakeholders are concerned about Congress' ability to stave off a scheduled 30% Medicare physician pay cut scheduled for 2013, particularly with the November election and the anticipated workload during the lame duck session.

The AASM thanks its top May recruiters

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

ASMF launches revamped website

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation website, www.discoversleep.org, has received a major overhaul. With a clean, attractive new look the redesigned website allows for easier navigation and access to grant announcements and other important documents. In addition, the ASMF has published an enhanced version of the 2011 ASMF Annual Report, which is optimized for your browser, tablet or mobile device, available on the new website.

Enjoy your stay in Boston for SLEEP 2012

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

For the first time since 1994, the SLEEP Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS) is coming to Boston! Located in Boston’s Back Bay, SLEEP 2012 will be held June 9–13, 2012 at the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center. Take advantage of the opportunity to participate in this exciting event and to enjoy the many sites and activities found in this historic city. The APSS has compiled a guide of attractions in Boston, which is available for download on the SLEEP website.

Onsite registration begins Friday at SLEEP 2012

Fri, 08 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Individuals attending SLEEP 2012, the 26th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), can begin picking up their registration materials starting Friday, June 8 at 4:30 p.m. Registration counters will be open from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday for pre-registered attendees only. Individuals who would like to add a course and session registration or tickets to the Networking Reception can do so beginning at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 9.

Prepare for Boston with the SLEEP 2012 Itinerary Planner

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The SLEEP 2012 Itinerary Planner allows you to build a personalized schedule ahead of the meeting. This feature lets you browse sessions and abstracts to include as part of your meeting itinerary. When you are finished you can download your itinerary as a printer-friendly pdf file or save the itinerary to your calendar. You can find the SLEEP 2012 Itinerary Planner at www.sleepmeeting.org.

Member survey to assist Board of Directors in guiding strategic priorities for AASM

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Recently, a sample of randomly selected AASM members received an email from AASM President Nancy Collop, MD, with a link to the latest AASM Membership Survey. The survey will be used to help the AASM Board of Directors determine the strategic priorities of the organization and the field.

Registration open for ABSM Sleep Technologist Registry Exam

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Board of Sleep Medicine has announced that the Sleep Technologist Registry Examination will be offered for nearly a month at the many Kryterion Testing Centers located in the United States. RST Certification candidates will be able to take the exam at their convenience August 11-September 7. Candidates have until July 2 to submit a completed Sleep Technologist Registry Examination application to sit for the exam. For more information on the exam, view the Candidate Handbook for the Sleep Technology Registry Exam and the ABSM website.

Authors from leading clinical and scientific sleep societies urge the nation’s health stakeholders to make sleep a priority

Thu, 31 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A joint white paper by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and the Sleep Research Society (SRS) emphasizing the importance of sleep and directed at the nation’s health stakeholders is being published in the June issue of the journal SLEEP.

Now online: first issue of AASM Membership Sections Newsletter

Thu, 31 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Learn about the activities of the AASM Membership Sections through the inaugural issue of the Membership Sections Newsletter. This issue highlights ongoing projects, goals and the SLEEP 2012 section meeting agendas.

ASMF announces Humanitarian Projects Award to improve sleep in disadvantaged populations

Thu, 31 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) is pleased to announce the 2012 Cycle of the Humanitarian Projects Award. The primary objective of this award is to provide support to projects that address sleep problems in disadvantaged populations.

New white paper concludes that sufficient sleep should be a national health priority

Thu, 31 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Calling sleep a ‘health imperative,’ authors from leading clinical and scientific sleep societies urge the nation’s health stakeholders to take notice.

Maryland passes amendment recognizing A-STEP as an educational pathway

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the Maryland Sleep Society (MSS) for passing House Bill 827! The bill amends the Maryland Polysomnography Practice Act by recognizing A-STEP as an educational pathway.

Attend AASM Section Meetings at SLEEP 2012

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

All AASM members are invited to attend the AASM membership section meetings at SLEEP 2012! SLEEP 2012 provides a unique opportunity for section members to gather and network with their colleagues in person. All AASM members are welcome to attend any section meeting they wish and do not need to hold membership in that section. Preregistration is not required. View the full article for a schedule of AASM membership section meetings.

FTC activity at the state level regarding scope of practice and state licensure

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is increasing its antitrust examination of state medical board and state legislative actions, particularly those concerning scope of practice.

Lawmakers working on Sustainable Growth Rate

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

After numerous failed attempts to replace the sustainable growth rate (SGR), the formula that annually determines physician reimbursement rates under Medicare, lawmakers have again begun to discuss solutions to the SGR issue.

CMS announces release of Comparative Billing Reports on Evaluation and Management Services

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced it will release a Comparative Billing Report (CBR) addressing Evaluation and Management Services on June 4.

Health care costs stem from price increases

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Health care spending by privately insured individuals increased by 3.3 percent between 2009 and 2010. Spending has increased primarily because prices of services increased, according to a study by the Health Care Cost Institute. The findings are based on claims data from Aetna, Humana and UnitedHealthcare, which cover about 20 percent of residents with employer-sponsored health plans.

Memorial Day: AASM National Office will be closed Monday, May 28

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In observance of the federal Memorial Day holiday, the national offices of the AASM, Sleep Research Society, Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC, American Board of Sleep Medicine, American Association of Sleep Technologists, and American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine will be closed Monday, May 28, and will reopen Tuesday, May 29, at 8 a.m. CDT.

Use social media at SLEEP 2012 for a chance to win

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The APSS is introducing new opportunities for SLEEP 2012 attendees to stay connected through social media and to discuss sleep and share their experiences in Boston. Attendees will have a number of chances to win Visa gift cards and other AASM prizes just by using Twitter, Facebook and Foursquare

Get a sneak peak at proposed changes to the ICSD at SLEEP 2012

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Join the AASM International Classification of Sleep Disorders (ICSD) Revision Task Force members on Tuesday June 12 from 2:45-4:45pm at SLEEP 2012 for the discussion "Developing ICSD-3: Work to Date and Future Directions." The discussion group is chaired by Dr. Michael Sateia, chair of the ICSD Revision Task Force.

Hypnogram: A pivotal year in sleep

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Boston – what a fabulous city! They have great tea parties, sports teams, restaurants and historic sites. And this year, Boston will be hosting the premier sleep meeting in the United States – SLEEP 2012. It is shaping up to be our best and biggest meeting ever, so you won’t want to miss it.

Study finds insurers would lose a trillion in revenue if health reform law is struck down

Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

U.S. health insurers would lose nearly a trillion dollars in new revenue between 2013 and 2020 if the U.S. Supreme Court strikes down the federal health reform law, according to a study by Bloomberg Government.

Visit the AASM PAC booth at SLEEP 2012

Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Please help support our advocacy efforts by contributing to the AASM Political Action Committee (AASM PAC) booth at SLEEP 2012. Over the last few months the AASM has been meeting with federal lawmakers and agencies to increase the AASM’s presence in Washington, D.C.

AAST conducting SLEEP 2012 workshop addressing legislative/regulatory activity for 2011-2012

Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Please join government relations specialists from the American Association of Sleep Technologists (AAST) on Monday, June 11 at 3:15pm at SLEEP 2012 to learn about legislative/regulatory activity for 2011-2012.

ASMF announces Strategic Research Award for research on improving health care delivery

Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) recently announced a request for proposals (RFP) for the planning or research grants aimed at improving the quality of health care delivery in the field of sleep medicine. Applications for the grants are due August 15, 2012.

AASM congratulates recipients of 2012 AASM Awards

Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Each year the AASM Awards recognize several leaders in sleep medicine who have made significant contributions to both the AASM and the sleep field. The AASM congratulates recipients of the 2012 AASM Awards.

Online pre-registration for SLEEP 2012 ends May 30

Fri, 18 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Wednesday, May 30, is the last day to register online for SLEEP 2012, the 26th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS). After May 30 attendees will have to wait to register onsite at the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center in Boston. Visit www.sleepmeeting.org to register and to learn more about SLEEP 2012.

ABSM Registered Sleep Technologist Certification Examination to be offered August 11-17

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep technologists and trainees will have the opportunity to obtain the Registered Sleep Technologist (RST) certification August 11-17. This year the American Board of Sleep Medicine will offer the Sleep Technologist Registry Examination at hundreds of testing locations across the United States.

Latest sleep research presented in Boston, June 11-13 at annual meeting

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep clinicians and scientists from around the world will be in Boston on June 11 – 13 for SLEEP 2012, the premier event for sleep and circadian science that blends the most current sleep research with the best clinical practices. Embargoed press releases and press credentials available in advance for SLEEP 2012

NIH announces Funding Opportunity for development of obesity interventions

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and several other components of the NIH have issued a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) for the development of obesity prevention programs. The FOA "Exploratory/Development Clinical Research Grants in Obesity (R21)" encourages grant applications from institutions that propose clinical studies that will accelerate the development of interventions for the prevention or treatment of overweight or obesity in adults and/or children. The open date for the funding opportunity is May 16.

House lawmakers to release details of new bipartisan proposal for “Doc Fix”

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

U.S. Representatives Joe Heck (R-Nev.) and Allyson Schwartz (D-Pa.) will release details of a new proposal that aims to repeal the sustainable growth rate formula that sets Medicare physician payment rates.

AASM to attend upcoming Sleep Disorders Research Advisory Board (SDRAB) meeting

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Members of the AASM Government Relations team will travel to Washington, D.C. to participate in the May 30-31 meeting of the National Institute of Health (NIH) Sleep Disorders Research Advisory Board (SDRAB). The AASM and the SDRAB will discuss the sleep and circadian research developments and the NIH sleep research plan and provide updates.

CMS delays implementation of the Physician Payments Sunshine Act

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In a blog post on May 3, The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced a delay to implementation of the Physician Payments Sunshine Act. Referred to as the Sunshine Act, the provision was developed to require physicians to disclose any financial compensation worth more than $10 from pharmaceutical or medical device companies.

The AASM thanks its top April member recruiters

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2012 discussion spotlight: Organization and Structure of Academic Sleep Centers

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Clinicians involved in sleep at an academic medical center should plan on attending the discussion group "D04: Organization and Structure of Academic Sleep Centers", at 8:00am-12:00pm on Tuesday, June 12. The discussion group will highlight examples of successful academic sleep program structures, and discuss challenges and solutions for academic development of the field.

Review the CPT Guidelines for Sleep Medicine with the experts at SLEEP 2012

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Join the AASM coding and compliance experts at SLEEP 2012 on Tuesday, June 12 from 10:15am-12:15pm for the session "Changes to the CPT Guidelines for SLEEP Medicine Services: How Will They Affect My Practice?" The two-hour session will walk attendees through the new Sleep Medicine Testing Guidelines included in the CPT codebook in 2012.

Longer sleep times may counteract genetic factors related to weight gain

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Sleeping more may help you fight a genetic predisposition to gain weight, according to a study in the May issue of SLEEP. Researchers at the University of Washington examined sleep and body mass index (BMI) in 1,088 pairs of twins. They found that sleeping more than nine hours a night may actually suppress genetic influences on body weight. Sleeping less than seven hours a night was associated with both increased BMI and greater genetic influences on BMI.

AASM attends Oklahoma Sleep Society meeting

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM presented at the Oklahoma Sleep Society meeting conducted on Saturday, April 28.

Maryland Bill to amend Polysomnography Practice Act

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Maryland House Bill 827 (HB 827) & Senate Bill 776 (SB 776) have been submitted to Governor Martin O'Malley for signature.

CMS publishes ordering and referring final rule

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On April 27, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) published a final rule on Changes in Provider and Supplier Enrollment, Ordering and Referring, and Documentation Requirements; and Changes in Provider Agreements.

Avoiding the 2013 e-prescribing payment adjustment

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Medicare providers who do not successfully participate in the e-prescribing (eRx) program will be subject to a 1.5 percent reduction in their 2013 Medicare Part B payments. Act now to avoid this significant penalty.

Sessions from recent AASM Business of Sleep Medicine course now available streaming online

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Members who missed out on the Business of Sleep Medicine course in February have a second chance to learn about practice management issues and how to improve their business practice. Seven sessions from the Business of Sleep Medicine are now available as online learning modules in the AASM Online Learning Center.

Final month to register online for SLEEP 2012

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The pre-registration deadline for SLEEP 2012 is less than a month away. After Wednesday, May 30, only onsite registrations will be accepted. By registering online, you will be able to reserve a spot in the many Meet the Professor and Lunch Debate sessions, which offered on a first-come, first-served basis and are selling-out fast. Register online for SLEEP 2012, which will be held Saturday, June 9 - Wednesday, June 13 at the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center in Boston, at www.sleepmeeting.org

Learn about the health care reform law and sleep medicine at SLEEP 2012

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Please join the AASM government relations specialists on Tuesday, June 12 at 9:00am at SLEEP 2012 to learn about Health Care Reform and Sleep Medicine. Charles Buck, JD, a partner in the law firm McDermott Will & Emery LLP, will identify health care legal trends and describe how the health care reform law will impact sleep medicine.

SLEEP 2012 abstract supplement now available online

Fri, 04 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The SLEEP abstract supplement for SLEEP 2012, the 26th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), is available for download on the Journal SLEEP website and at www.sleepmeeting.org. This comprehensive resource contains all 1,333 research abstracts that will be presented at SLEEP 2012 in Boston next month. Of the abstracts, 196 will be presented as oral presentations and the remaining will be displayed in the poster viewing section of the SLEEP 2012 exhibit hall.

Longer sleep times may counteract genetic factors related to weight gain

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Toss out another old wives’ tale: Sleeping too much does not make you fat. Quite the opposite, according to a new study examining sleep and body mass index (BMI) in twins, which found that sleeping more than nine hours a night may actually suppress genetic influences on body weight. The study looked at 1,088 pairs of twins and found that sleeping less than seven hours a night was associated with both increased BMI and greater genetic influences on BMI. Previous research has shown that genetic influences include things like glucose metabolism, energy use, fatty acid storage and satiety. In this study, the heritability of BMI was twice as high for the short sleepers than for twins who slept longer than nine hours a night.

Excessive sleepiness may be cause of learning, attention and school problems

Tue, 01 May 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Children who have learning, attention and behavior problems may be suffering from excessive daytime sleepiness, even though clinical tests show them sleeping long enough at night, a new study reports. Penn State researchers studied 508 children and found that those whose parents reported excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) – despite little indication of short sleep from traditional measurements – were more likely to experience learning, attention/hyperactivity and conduct problems than children without EDS.

Free online FAQs supplement the AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Scoring Manual FAQs page on the AASM website answers common questions about rules in the AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events. The answers serve to clarify the rules, and in cases where there is a discrepancy between the manual and the FAQs, the answers supercede the manual itself. View the Scoring Manual FAQs today to ensure that your approach to scoring is accurate.

Support sleep advocacy efforts by contributing to the AASMPAC

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

It is vital that the AASM continue our advocacy efforts during the 2012 election. Elected representatives place a high value on advocacy involvement. By contributing to the AASM PAC, you will join with other concerned members of the sleep community who are interested in shaping the outlook of sleep medicine, sleep research and our healthcare and public health system.

Medicare trust fund insolvency date remains 2024

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Medicare's hospital insurance fund is expected to become insolvent in 2024, a projection unchanged from last year, according to a report by the board of trustees for Medicare and Social Security.

CMS expands competitive bidding for DME – reports significant savings

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In an April 18 press release, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) reported significant savings in the first year of the durable medical equipment (DME) competitive biding program.

Update on availability of specialty code on CMS paper enrollment forms

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In a recent Weekly Update article, we reported on the implementation of the sleep specialty code for CMS. The code will be available via the Medicare Provider Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System (PECOS) in May.

SLEEP 2012 advanced registration ends TODAY

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The advanced registration deadline to save more than 20% on registration fees is TODAY, April 25, 2012. The meeting will feature several educational and networking opportunities for sleep clinicians and researchers of all levels of experience including the presentation of over 1,300 scientific abstracts, 100 courses and sessions, a networking reception on the evening of Sunday, June 10 and a vast exhibit hall of over 125 companies.

AASM announces section chair election results

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM congratulates all of the individuals who were recently elected to serve one-year terms as section chairs. View the roster of the 2012-2013 section chairs and read the Call for Volunteers, which describes how section members can volunteer to serve on a membership section steering committee. Consider volunteering today!

AASM congratulates new Fellow members!

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is pleased to welcome the following new Fellow Members: Ofer Jacobowitz, MD, PhD, FAASM; Christopher B. Pugh, MD, FAASM; Monica O. Woodward, MD, FAASM.

Implementation of CMS Specialty Code for Sleep Medicine

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In a recent email from staff at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the AASM was notified that the specialty code for sleep medicine will be implemented in May.

Earn CME credit online: April issue of JCSM

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members have access to the full text of each article in the April 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine when you log in on the website. You also can earn continuing medical education (CME) credits online by reading designated articles and taking the online CME exams within one year of the date of publication.

Application deadline for BSM Certification Exam is May 1

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Applications for the 2012 Behavioral Sleep Medicine Certification Examination must be submitted by May 1, 2012. The exam will be offered by the American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM) from June 23 through July 2, 2012.

SLEEP 2012 advanced registration deadline is April 25

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The advanced registration deadline for SLEEP 2012 is April 25, 2012. Several ticketed sessions also have already sold-out or are nearly full; register early to ensure that you are able to attend these popular sessions.

Discounts offered on AASM patient education material

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

AASM patient education brochures provide your patients with the take-home information that they need to know about sleep and sleep disorders in a convenient and easy-to-read format. The brochures cover information including definitions, symptoms, treatment options, tips, and answers to frequently asked questions. Members of the AASM now have the opportunity to take advantage of two discounts on these valuable educational products.

AASM responds to proposed CMS rule on Reporting and Returning Overpayments

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM has signed onto a letter which responds to CMS’ proposed rule on Reporting and Returning Overpayments. As you may know, the proposal obligates physicians to report and return overpayments that if not completed carries significant legal and financial penalties.

CMS proposes one-year delay to implementation of ICD-10

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In an April 9 media release, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced a proposed one year delay to the implementation of the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Edition (ICD-10). CMS noted a number of reasons for delaying implementation.

February 2012 CPT Editorial Panel accepts recommendation to add two codes for pediatric polysomnography

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

At the February 2012 meeting of the CPT Editorial Panel the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and a number of other specialty societies presented a proposal to add two new CPT codes for pediatric polysomnography and pediatric polysomnography with initiation of PAP.

Making the most of your trip to Boston for SLEEP 2012

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Deadline approaching for Sleep Center Management courses

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Limited seats are now available for the AASM’s new Intermediate Sleep Center Management Series courses Strategies for Successful Billing and Expanding and Improving Your Sleep Center which will be held April 21–22, 2012 at the AASM National Office in Darien, Illinois (a Chicago suburb). Registration for this series will be available until Thursday, April 19, 2012 or until the course sells out. All sleep centers are encouraged to send their management/administrative staff to this series which will feature top faculty including incoming AASM President, Samuel Fleishman, MD.

2012 AASM Board of Directors Election results

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine thanks all members who voted in the 2012 AASM Board of Directors Elections in March. The AASM has finished tabulating the ballots, and each candidate was approved by a majority of respondents.

Hypnogram: Membership Sections

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Wow, what a spring – no winter and then March was like summer. The poor plants were so confused, no azaleas or dogwoods for the Masters and no tulips for the Kentucky Derby! One can only speculate what the summer will bring. But one thing we do expect is a great SLEEP annual meeting in June – and in the great city of Boston! Tea parties, revolutions, famous people like Paul Revere, Sam Adams, and Mary Dyer (go ahead and look it up). It is looking to be one of our most successful meetings ever, so I hope you have registered and booked your hotel room!

CDC study forges link between sleep apnea and depression

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Obstructive sleep apnea and other symptoms of OSA are associated with probable major depression, regardless of factors like weight, age, sex or race, according to a new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Recap of oral arguments before the Supreme Court addressing the health reform law

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

After three days of oral arguments, the Supreme Court's conservative justices generally seemed skeptical of the constitutionality of the federal health reform law while liberal justices often came to the law's defense.

The AASM thanks its top March recruiters

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

NTSB board member to present SLEEP 2012 keynote address

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The SLEEP 2012 Plenary Session features two keynote addresses. Dr. Mark Rosekind, an expert in fatigue and transportation and one of the National Transportation Safety Board’s five current Board Members, will present From Bench to Planes, Trains and Automobiles: How Sleep Science Can Enhance Transportation Safety, and Dr. Robert Stickgold will present Sleep, Memory, and Dreams: Extracting the Meaning of our Lives. The SLEEP 2012 Plenary Session is Monday, June 11 from 7:45am–10:00am. Complete bios for Drs. Rosekind, Stickgold and other SLEEP 2012 invited lecturers can be found in the SLEEP 2012 Preliminary Program. With ticketed sessions selling out quickly and the Advanced Registration Deadline of April 25 approaching, members are encouraged to register early for this year’s meeting.

Avoiding claims errors and increasing compliance

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In 2011, it was reported that approximately $28.8B in improper payments were issued across all Medicare Fee-For-Service programs (including Part A, Part B and DME). This is an error rate of 8.6 percent. In 2012, Medicare intends to bring this error rate down to 5.4 percent. It is imperative that all sleep centers implement accurate billing procedures to meet current requirements and reduce errors. To help educate members and sleep center staff on this important issue, the AASM is devoting a full day of its April 21–22 Intermediate Sleep Center Management Series to coding and billing topics including documentation, appeals, developing a compliance plan and more.

CDC study forges link between depression and sleep apnea

Fri, 30 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Survey finds association between symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea and hopelessness

Supreme Court concludes arguments on health care law, individual mandate

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Supreme Court has retreated from the public spotlight to get to work on a series of appeals that will determine the future of health care law in the United States.

Too much, too little sleep shown to be bad for the heart

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Researchers at the American College of Cardiology in Chicago presented findings last weekend suggesting that sleeping less than six or more than eight hours a night doubles the risk cardiovascular complications.

NHLBI announces Funding Opportunities, Career Transition Award

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The NIH National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) recently issued two Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs) and a Career Transition Award that apply to sleep.

AASM Facebook Page upgraded to include organizational timeline

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine Facebook page now honors the history of the AASM and the practice of sleep medicine. Facebook's newest feature, the Facebook timeline, is a tool that allows organizations to chart out their history. The AASM is using the timeline to post photos from past meetings, important organizational milestones and breakthroughs in sleep research, for members and individuals with an interest in sleep medicine to browse.

RST equivalency deadline for RPSGTs is Saturday

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Time is running out for practicing sleep technologists with the RPSGT certification to apply for equivalency status to obtain the Registered Sleep Technologist (RST) certification from the American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM). RPSGTs who apply for equivalency before Saturday will be able to obtain the new RST certificate without taking the ABSM Sleep Technologist Registry Examination, which will be offered later this year.

Enforcement of Version 5010 delayed by 3 months

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) Office of E-Health Standards and Services (OESS) has announced that it will not initiate enforcement action through Jun. 30, 2012 against any covered entity required to comply with the updated transaction standards including Version 5010.

CMS updates providers on eRx payment adjustment

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In an email update to providers dated March 23, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provided additional information on the Medicare Electronic Prescribing (eRx) Incentive Program and the 2012 eRx payment adjustment.

APSS Program Committee incoming chair recommends discussion groups and clinical workshops at SLEEP 2012

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Each year, the APSS Program Committee is tasked with selecting courses and sessions for the SLEEP Annual Meeting that will provide attendees with state of the art information on the latest topics in the field. This year, the Program Committee has introduced several new session formats and has included sessions on many hot-topics in sleep. Incoming Chair of the Program Committee and Regional Medical Director at Sleep HealthCenters, Douglas Kirsch, MD has reviewed the SLEEP 2012 program and selected several discussion groups and clinical workshops that will be of greatest relevance to attendees in clinical practice.

200-Epoch Scoring Reviews receive full system upgrade

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

All AASM 200-Epoch Scoring Reviews have received a full system upgrade to more closely resemble professional scoring software. The 200-Epoch Scoring Review upgrade mirrors the changes to the AASM Inter-scorer Reliability program from January. Both systems offer a greatly improved testing experience with larger records, the ability to score from a 120-second view and keyboard commands for faster scoring. Try the Inter-scorer Reliability interactive demo to experience the updated 200-Epoch Scoring Review system.

Last chance to submit your late-breaking abstracts for SLEEP 2012

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Wednesday, March 21 is the final day that the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS) is accepting late-breaking abstracts for SLEEP 2012. Researchers will have an opportunity to present their latest scientific findings during a scientific session on Wednesday, June 13 from 12:15pm - 1:30pm. Up to five abstracts will be accepted for oral presentations in which authors will present their high-quality emerging data found between Dec. 2011 and March 2012.

MEDPAC recommends 1 percent pay increase for hospitals, reiterates support for SGR repeal

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Last week, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) submitted its annual report to Congress in which it recommended increasing certain hospital payments and urged lawmakers to overhaul the sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula.

MCSAC and the MRB submit recommendations for drivers with OSA

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee (MCSAC) and the Medical Review Board (MRB) recently submitted recommendations to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regarding regulatory guidance obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in drivers.

Educational resources for pediatric sleep medicine

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM currently offers several products and educational resources for sleep centers that see pediatric patients including patient education brochures, clinician and technologist training books and online education opportunities.

SLEEP 2012: Spotlight on Meet the Professor and Lunch Debate Sessions

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Lunch sessions at the SLEEP Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS) fill up quickly each year with a limited number of seats available in each session. In anticipation of a large turnout in Boston for SLEEP 2012 this June, the APSS encourages all individuals who will be attending the meeting to register early and reserve their space in lunch sessions and postgraduate courses before these events sell out.

One day left to save: AASM course to review important management and billing topics

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Members of the AASM and the American Association of Sleep Technologists have until this Friday, March 23, 2012 to save on registration fees to the AASM’s Intermediate Sleep Center Management Series courses, Strategies for Successful Billing and Expanding and Improving Your Sleep Center.

CMS to hear more cases for exemptions from 2012 eRx penalty

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Center for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced that it will again allow physicians to present their case to be exempted from the 2012 e-prescribing (eRx) penalty program. Contact CMS' Quality Net Help Desk if you have not received a formal notice regarding the final status of an exemption request, or if you believe a mistake led to an eRx penalty.

CBS Sunday Morning and Dr. Nate Watson profile sleep and sleep deprivation

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The March 11 edition of CBS Sunday Morning included an extensive segment on sleep, to coincide with the "spring forward" to daylight saving in most states. Dr. Nate Watson, a member of the AASM Board of Directors, served as the primary expert on sleep in the news feature. The report briefly touched on a variety of topics related to sleep and sleep deprivation, including the role of sleep in athletic performance and academic success.

House to vote next week on bill to repeal IPAB, curb medical malpractice suit damages

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The House of Representatives is expected to vote next week on a measure (HR 5) that would repeal the Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB). Both the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the Committee on Ways and Means reported favorably on the measure.

AASMPAC: Thanks to members for recent contributions

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM would like to thank the following members who have recently donated to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine Political Action Committee (AASMPAC).

Coding FAQs - New content posted

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Coding page of the AASM website has been expanded to include new frequently asked questions. The FAQs were developed to help members better understand coding, compliance and policy issues related to sleep medicine.

CMS Continues Transition to 5010

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In January, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced that it had delayed enforcement of the required implementation of Version 5010 for 90 days. Though originally providers were expected to be in compliance with Version 5010 by Jan 1, 2012, it was projected that enforcement actions would begin on Apr 1, 2012.

SLEEP 2012: Spotlight on postgraduate courses

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Make plans to attend the postgraduate courses on Saturday, June 9 and Sunday, June 10 during SLEEP 2012 held at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston, Massachusetts. 12 full-day and half-day postgraduate courses will be presented prior to the general session. These courses provide attendees with comprehensive coverage of important topics in sleep medicine and sleep research. Several new courses are being offered this year.

Billing and management updates: Deadline for AASM Intermediate Sleep Center Management Series is next Friday

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The discounted rate for the Intermediate Sleep Center Management Series held April 21–22, 2012 at the AASM national office in Darien, IL (a suburb of Chicago) is next Friday, March 23, 2012. This series will provide sleep center staff with important updates and key take-aways for many of the complex issues that center managers and staff involved in center administration face.

HypnoGram: Nurses & Physician Assistants

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Hope everyone is adjusting well to the time change. I do like getting home on occasion in the daylight, but waking up earlier is tough. The daffodils, azaleas and green pine pollen are out – so we all know that Spring has sprung!

ABSM Certified Behavioral Sleep Medicine Exam requirements, application and dates

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Board of Sleep Medicine has posted revised eligibility requirements, an application, and dates for the 2012 Certified Behavioral Sleep Medicine Examination. The revised eligibility requirements address the broadening of eligible candidates to include PhD-level nurses, social workers and other licensed and approved health care providers; the omission (for 2012) of requirement for 8 hours of pediatric intervention continuing education credits; and delineation of the examination content areas. Also online is the application for the 2012 examination, which is due by May 1, 2012.

Support sleep medicine by donating to the AASMPAC

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASMPAC is a bi-partisan political action committee which assists in supporting sleep medicine-friendly legislators in their Congressional elections. This support opens doors for expressing the AASM's viewpoints and the need for and value of sleep care services for patients, sleep care research and sleep-related public health implications. An investment in the AASMPAC is an investment in your profession and livelihood; by contributing to the AASMPAC, you will help shape the outlook of sleep medicine. Donate online today by visiting www.aasmpac.org.

Poll: U.S. residents split on health reform

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Public support for the federal health reform law is split nearly evenly, with 42 percent of U.S. residents holding a favorable view of the overhaul and 43 percent viewing it unfavorably, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation poll released last week.

House health subcommittee passes bill to repeal panel

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee on Wednesday voted 17-5 to pass a bill (HR 452) that would repeal the Independent Payment Advisory Board, a 15-member panel created by the federal health reform law to make cost-cutting recommendations in Medicare.

Medicare redesigns claims and benefits statement

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On March 7, Marilyn Tavenner, Acting Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced a redesign of the claims and benefits statement provided to Medicare beneficiaries. CMS has redesigned the statement as a part of its new initiative called “Your Medicare Information: Clearer, Simpler, At Your Fingertips.”

Registration open for the Intermediate Sleep Center Management Course

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Join us at the AASM National Office, located in a suburb of Chicago, for a two-day Intermediate Sleep Center Management Course on April 21 and 22. The first day of the course will address accurate billing, issues of fraud and abuse, documentation, and compliance plan development. The second day will highlight mechanisms for expanding your sleep center business such as portable monitoring (OCST), DME, expanding your referral base, optimizing staff and marketing your sleep center. The advanced registration deadline for this course is March 23, so register today!

OIG establishes education website Compliance 101

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In an effort to consolidate its compliance-related educational resources, the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) has developed a new website called Compliance 101.

Two new session formats to debut at SLEEP 2012

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In an effort to provide more clinically-relevant sessions at the SLEEP 2012 annual meeting, the APSS Program Committee has developed two new session formats for attendees looking for the latest information in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders. During Bench to Bedside Sessions, presenters will highlight the latest advances in translational science and the clinical applications. Brown Bag Report: Challenging Cases is a Tuesday lunchtime session in which an expert panel will discuss their approach to diagnosis and treatment for three to four challenging cases.

Browse openings in sleep medicine online using the AASM Job Board

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Job Board currently features dozens of position openings for sleep physicians, technologists, sleep center managers and more. AASM Members and non-members can browse online listings and apply for jobs for free. Posting a job opening on the AASM Job Board is quick and easy for employers; AASM members receive a discount on each classified ad.

Submit your late-breaking abstract for SLEEP 2012 before March 21

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Present your latest scientific findings at SLEEP 2012. The Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS) is accepting late-breaking abstract submissions for SLEEP 2012. Abstracts may be submitted until Wednesday, March 21. Late-breaking abstracts will be presented during a scientific session on Wednesday, June 13, from 12:15pm – 1:30pm. Up to five abstracts will be accepted for oral presentations in which authors will present their high-quality emerging data found between Dec. 2011 and March 2012.

The AASM recognizes its top February recruiter

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the AASM’s top Member-Get-A-Member Campaign recruiter for the month of February: Chih-Huan Wang, RhD. Member recruiters help advance sleep medicine by encouraging their professional colleagues to join the AASM. For each new member recruited, these individuals receive a $15 Recognition of Excellence Money (REM) Voucher that can be used toward AASM products and course registrations. Each member referral also enters recruiters into a Grand Prize Drawing to win a complimentary 2013 AASM course registration including travel expenses. Learn how to participate in the AASM Member-Get-A-Member Campaign.

Reminder: Submit your online ballot for the AASM leadership elections

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Last week, all eligible AASM members received an email from AASM President Nancy Collop, MD containing a link to participate in the 2012 AASM leadership elections. Members have until Friday, March 16 at 5:00 p.m. to submit their ballot. This year, the ballot will include the AASM President-elect and three directors -at large on the AASM Board of Directors. In addition, members will elect an AASM Nominating Committee representative. For information on candidates, view the candidate biographies on the AASM Election 2012 page.

SLEEP 2012 Preliminary Program available online; sessions beginning to sell out

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A complete Preliminary Program for SLEEP 2012, the 26th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS) is now available on the meeting’s website. This program includes comprehensive information about scheduled sessions and courses, continuing education, registration, hotel and travel. Members in the United States can expect to receive a printed copy of the program in the mail shortly, and members outside of the United States may access the program online. Additionally, ticketed sessions and courses are beginning to sell out…members are encouraged to register early to ensure that they are able to attend all of their desired sessions. A list of sold out sessions can be found on the SLEEP 2012 website; the APSS does not maintain waiting lists for sold out sessions.

Study links sleeping pill use to mortality risk

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A study published Tuesday by the BMJ Open linked prescription sleeping pills with a higher death risk in users – even casual users – than in non-users. Critics, including AASM President Nancy Collop, MD, were quick to caution physicians and patients about making any cause-and-effect conclusions from the study. "You cannot assume, just because you find this kind of association, that hypnotics are killing people," Dr. Collop said. "People who go on sleeping pills are a sicker population. I know (this study) tried to control for that, but these people simply are not as healthy."

CMS announces Stage 2 of electronic health record implementation

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In a press release dated Feb 24, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced a proposed rule detailing the requirements for stage 2 of the Medicare and Medicaid Electronic Health Record Incentive Programs. The Health Information Technology for Economic and Clinical Health (HITECH) Act of 2009 established incentives for health care professionals and hospitals that adopt certified electronic health record (EHR) technology and use it in a meaningful way.

Opportunity to network at SLEEP 2012

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Each year, the meeting’s networking reception brings together past colleagues and sparks new connections between attendees…all attendees of SLEEP 2012 are encouraged to attend this important event which benefits the American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) and the Sleep Research Society Foundation (SRSF). This year, the SLEEP 2012 Networking Reception will be held on the evening of Sunday, June 10, 2012 from 6:00pm–7:30pm. Tickets are $50 per person and include an extensive selection of hors d’oeuvres throughout the evening, a drink ticket and live music.

Membership section chair call for nominations

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM invites members to apply for the Chair position of their primary membership section. Sections provide a forum for members with focused interests to share those interests, discuss ideas, stimulate research and recommend programs that promote education through the AASM.

Participate online in the AASM leadership elections

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine invites members to participate in the AASM Board of Directors. This year, members will determine the AASM President-elect and three directors at-large on the AASM Board of Directors. In addition, the members will determine an AASM Nominating Committee representative.

Defying expectations: Americans report sleep improving as they age

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Survey of 150,000 adults shows the fewest complaints come from people in their 80s

Call for volunteers: Representatives to serve on the CoA PSG

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Help shape the future of education and training for sleep technologists by representing the AASM on the Committee on Accreditation for Polysomnographic Technologist Education (CoA PSG). The CoA PSG is an organization that accredits two-year programs at community colleges for sleep technologist education. These training programs promote high-quality, standardized training for sleep technologists and are integral to the future of the sleep technology profession. Representatives to the CoA PSG will assist with review of applications for program accreditation and help set standards for educational programs. If you are interested in this opportunity, please send a two-page bio sketch to Jordana Money at jmoney@aasmnet.org by March 9, 2012.

Deadline approaching for Basics of Sleep Center Management course

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The deadline to register for the AASM’s new Basics of Sleep Center Management course is Friday, March 2, 2012. The course, which will be held on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at the AASM National Office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago), will provide individuals new to or interested in becoming involved in the management of a sleep center with a broad overview of sleep center management topics including overview of accreditation, equipment selection, staffing, staff training, finances, marketing, coding and reimbursement.

NHLBI releases executive summary on workshop on sleep deficiency and sleep disorders

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Division of Lung Diseases (DLD) and Division for the Application of Research Discoveries (DARD) held a joint workshop in September titled "Reducing Health Disparities: The Role of Sleep Deficiency and Sleep Disorders."An executive summary of the workshop is now available on the NHLBI website.

AASM publishes practice parameters on the treatment of central sleep apnea in adults

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM recently published practice parameters to guide clinicians in the treatment of central sleep apnea. The article title "The Treatment of Central Sleep Apnea Syndromes in Adults: Practice Parameters with an Evidence-Based Literature Review and Meta-Analysis" appeared in the January issue of the journal SLEEP. The practice parameters are based on a systematic review of the scientific literature that was performed by an expert task force. The article was developed by the AASM Standards of Practice Committee and reviewed and approved by the AASM board of directors.

Patient-oriented guide and podcast on treating sleep apnea available on the AHRQ website

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) has expanded its resources for health care consumers to include information on sleep apnea. The guide titled "Treating Sleep Apnea" includes information on the symptoms and treatment for sleep apnea. Alongside the guide, AHRQ has released a brief podcast on sleep apnea. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine also provides clinicians with informational resources for patients with sleep disorder, in the form of patient education brochures and the patient website yoursleep.aasm.org, which includes information on the symptoms and treatments for a variety of sleep disorders.

President Obama signs legislation to delay Medicare cuts until end of 2012

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

President Obama signed legislation (HR 3630) that delays scheduled cuts to Medicare physician reimbursement rates, extends the payroll tax cut and continues unemployment benefits. The $143 billion package delays the Medicare rate cut, which would have been a 27%, until the end of 2012. When the "doc fix" expires in December, physicians will face about a 32% reduction in Medicare payments.

Update: the 2012 eRx Incentive Program

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) previously announced that eligible professionals who did not become successful electronic prescribers under the 2011 Electronic Prescribing (eRx) Incentive Program are subject to a payment adjustment in 2012. Please review this Medicare Learning Network article regarding how payment adjustments were calculated. A number of AASM members submitted hardship exemption requests in late 2011. Approval of such a request would exempt the physician from eRx Incentive Program payment adjustments. CMS originally intended to publish a report of providers approved for hardship exemption. However, it was announced in January that such a report was not technically feasible due to the large number of requests received.

Don't let your AASM membership lapse

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Renew your AASM membership by Feb. 29 to stay active and continue receiving membership benefits like the Weekly Update, product and course discounts, and online access to the journal Sleep and Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. To prevent membership deactivation and a reinstatement fee, renew online, download a renewal invoice to return via mail or fax, or call the AASM Membership Department at 630-737-9756.

Physicians slow to transition to electronic health records

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Just 25 percent of physicians are "on target" to meet the health IT meaningful use standards established under the federal stimulus package, according to a study by the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions. The study found that most of the respondents use some form of electronic health records to manage clinical information, and most believe EHRs can help improve care over the long term. Only 21 percent of respondents say they do not expect to meet the Oct. 2013 for transitioning to ICD-10, but 62 percent said managing ICD-10 documentation is a "major concern."

Last chance to register for AASM training course for new sleep technicians

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On March 5–16, 2012, the AASM will hold a two-week An Introduction to Sleep Technology: An A-STEP Course at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). Centers interested in sending their new technicians to this course must register on or before Friday, March 2, 2012. During the course—accredited by the AASM as an Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program (A-STEP) Introductory Course—up to 20 sleep technicians will have the opportunity to gain the knowledge needed to begin a successful career in the field of sleep technology. Attendees of this training program will receive more than $1,000 of course material included with their registration fees, training from expert faculty, more than 30 hours of interactive, hands-on practice exercises and overnight observation at a sleep center.

Submit your late-breaking abstracts for SLEEP 2012 starting Friday, Feb. 24

Wed, 22 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Present your latest scientific findings at SLEEP 2012. The Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS) is accepting late-breaking abstract submissions for SLEEP 2012. Abstracts may be submitted from Friday, Feb. 24 through Wednesday, March 21. Late-breaking abstracts will be presented during a scientific session on Wednesday, June 13, 2012, from 12:15pm – 1:30pm. Up to five abstracts will be accepted for oral presentations in which authors will present their high-quality emerging data found between December 2011 and March 2012. Review the late-breaking abstracts submission guidelines online at http://www.sleepmeeting.org/lba.aspx for additional details about participating in this session at SLEEP 2012.

Congress approves 'doc fix'; measure sent to President Obama

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives passed a bipartisan deal today which avoids a Medicare fee cut for physicians while also extending the payroll tax cut and unemployment benefits for the rest of the year. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 60-36 and the House approved the measure by a 293-132 margin. President Barack Obama has promised to sign the legislation. The final agreement allows Medicare to maintain current physician reimbursement rates through December, delaying a 27.4% reduction in fees set to begin on March 1. To fund the $18 billion doc fix, the agreement includes several health-related offsets.

An invitation to volunteer from President-elect Sam Fleishman

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Dr. Sam Fleishman describes his experience on AASM standing committees and how it helped in his professional development.

AHRQ seeks public commentary on report 'Future Research Needs for Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea'

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) is seeking public comment on its new draft report titled "Future Research Needs for Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea." The intended purpose of the report is to help researchers and funders of research make well-informed decisions in designing and funding research related to obstructive sleep apnea. The deadline for commentary is March 6, 2012.

Support AASM action in Washington by donating to the AASMPAC

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

AASM staff has recently made progress in developing relationships with leading lawmakers, and several influential labor unions and federal agencies, after several productive trips to Washington, D.C. In order to continue this momentum in Washington, the AASM has reintroduced the AASM Political Action Committee (AASMPAC). The AASMPAC is a bi-partisan political action committee which assists in supporting sleep medicine-friendly legislators in their Congressional elections. This support opens doors for expressing the AASM's viewpoints and the need for and value of sleep care services for patients, sleep care research and sleep-related public health implications. An investment in the AASMPAC is an investment in your profession and livelihood; by contributing to the AASMPAC, you will help shape the outlook of sleep medicine. Donate online today by visiting www.aasmpac.org.

President Obama's 2013 budget request for the National Institutes of Health

Fri, 17 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The 2013 budget request President Obama sent to Congress requests $30.9 billion for the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the same level as 2012. NIH estimates it will support a total of 35,888 research project grants, including 9,415 new and competing awards. The $30.9 billion request will be used to invest in basic research on the fundamental causes and mechanisms of disease, accelerating discovery through new technologies, advancing translational sciences, and encouraging new investigators and new ideas.

Registration open for Spring Management Courses

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A few spots remain open for the Basics of Sleep Center Management course, which will be held on Mar 3, 2012 at the AASM national office in Darien, IL. Chaired by Dr. Amy Aronsky, the basics course is targeted to new sleep center managers or to staff looking to take on a management role. Sleep center managers will also want to take advantage of the Intermediate Sleep Center Management Series, a two day course chaired by Dr. Eric Olson. The Intermediate Series will be held on Apr 21-22, 2012 at the AASM national office in Darien, IL. Registration for this course is currently available with an advanced registration savings deadline of Mar 23, 2012.

HHS initiating a process to postpone the compliance date for ICD-10

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In an news release published Feb 16, 2012, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) announced that HHS is initiating a process to postpone the compliance date for the use of International Classification of Disease, 10th Edition (ICD-10) diagnosis and procedure codes. The current compliance date, as mandated in a January 2009 final rule, is Oct. 1, 2013.

Feb. 29 deadline to renew membership; update Membership Directory listing

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Members must renew their AASM membership by Feb. 29, 2012 to be included in and receive the 2012-2013 printed Membership Directory. Members who have already renewed may update their directory listing under the My Account menu. Directory updates must be made by Feb. 29, 2012 to appear in the printed 2012-2013 Membership Directory.

Last chance to register for two essential AASM courses scheduled for Feb. 24-27 in Phoenix

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Registration for the AASM’s Sleep Medicine Therapies and Business of Sleep Medicine for Physicians courses will end on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2012. Individuals interested in attending one or both of these courses, which will be held at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix, Arizona, must do so on or before this date; on-site registration will not be accepted.

HypnoGram Innovation & Political Action

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

I am hopeful that by now you have had an opportunity to read the AASM’s recent proposal for the Innovation Care Delivery and Management Program for Patients with OSA (ICDMPPO), which was submitted to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in response to its Health Care Innovation Challenge. We at the AASM feel that this important proposal represents the future of clinical care for adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

A call for sleep centers to participate in the AASM's Innovation Program

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A letter from AASM President Dr. Nancy Collop to AASM membership requesting that sleep centers apply to participate in the Integrated Care Delivery and Management Program for Patients with OSA (ICDMPPO). Information on the program is available at www.innovatesleep.org.

Conference committee discusses "doc fix"

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The conference committee tasked with developing an extension of the payroll tax cut and delaying scheduled reimbursement cuts to Medicare physicians met for the fourth time to discuss potential offsets.

AASM provides comments at federal hearing on regulations for commercial drivers with sleep apnea

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On Feb. 6, the Motor Carrier Safety Advisory Committee (MCSAC) and Medical Review Board (MRB) conducted a hearing to address regulatory guidance for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) for motor carriers and commercial vehicle drivers.

Sleep Review cover story profiles Dr. Collop, AASM Innovation Proposal

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The newest issue of Sleep Review profiles AASM President Dr. Nancy Collop, MD, as a forward-thinking leader who is proposing revolutionary changes to improve sleep medicine. The feature story comes as the AASM rolls out its Innovation Care Delivery and Management Program for Patients with OSA (ICDMPPO) proposal, a proposal that Dr. Collop had a central role in developing. The article depicts Dr. Collop as a leading physician, clinical researcher and President of the AASM, and summarizes how the ICDMPPO proposal would improve care for sleep disorders patients while reducing costs. Under the proposal, a board-certified sleep physician and accredited sleep center would serve as an anchor point for the patient while maintaining communication with the primary care physicians. The sleep medicine physician would be responsible for managing the continuum of the patient’s sleep-related care, from the initial visit to the diagnostic test to equipment titration and long-term follow-up. Read the complete story online in the digital edition of Sleep Review.

AAST course: New Directions in Sleep Apnea Evaluation and Therapy

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep technologists who want to be at the forefront of their profession should make plans to attend Advances in Sleep Technology: New Directions in Sleep Apnea Evaluation and Therapy, a two-day course that will be held March 24-25, at the national office of the American Association of Sleep Technologists (AAST) in Darien, Ill. An expert faculty will discuss options for the evaluation and treatment of sleep related breathing disorders beyond polysomnography and CPAP. Lectures will focus on emerging technologies and how they can be used with various patient populations. Earn up to 14.00 CECs. Register by Feb. 24 to save!

SLEEP 2012 Preliminary Program available at Sleepmeeting.org

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A complete Preliminary Program for SLEEP 2012, the 26th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), is now available at sleepmeeting.org. The program includes comprehensive information about scheduled sessions and courses, continuing education, registration, hotel and travel.

Congratulations new Fellow Members of the AASM

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor that recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field. We are pleased to welcome the following new Fellow Members: Baba H. Limann, MD, FAASM, Aijaz A. Yazdani, MD, FAASM. If you are interested in becoming a Fellow member of the AASM, please review the requirements on the AASM website. All required documentation should be submitted to the AASM Membership Department.

Take advantage of hotel discounts when planning your travel for SLEEP 2012

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Individuals are encouraged to register early to ensure that they are able to reserve space in the meeting’s most popular sessions and courses. And after registering for the meeting, take advantage of discounted hotel room rates by booking your hotel reservation through the SLEEP 2012 Housing Bureau. Room blocks have been reserved at a discounted rate at several conveniently located hotels, including the Sheraton Boston Hotel which will serve as the meeting’s headquarter hotel and is connected to the convention center.

Have your information printed on AASM's new patient education brochures

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

As an exclusive benefit of membership, AASM individual and center members can have their contact information professionally printed on the back of any of the AASM’s 19 new patient education brochures which feature new designs and topics! The new brochures have been updated to cover topics essential to today’s sleep practice and will provide your patients with important take-away material prior to and following appointments.

Session at upcoming courses to review AASM's application for CMS Healthcare Innovation Challenge

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

AASM President Nancy Collop, MD, will review the AASM’s Innovation Care Delivery and Management Program for Patients with OSA (ICDMPPO) proposal for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) Healthcare Innovation Challenge during an evening session, followed by a reception, on Saturday, Feb. 25. Attendees of the Sleep Medicine Therapies and Business of Sleep Medicine for Physicians are invited to attend this session. Registration for these courses is available while space remains or until Tuesday, Feb. 21; on-site registration will not be accepted.

Questions raised regarding war funds for "doc fix"

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A proposal to use savings from ending the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq to fund a "doc fix" might not be an option, according to the chair of the conference committee tasked with extending the payroll tax cut and delaying scheduled cuts to Medicare physician reimbursement rates.

Reminder: RPSGTs must apply for RST equivalency by March 31

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Nearly 3,000 Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (RPSGT) have applied for equivalency status to obtain Registered Sleep Technologist (RST) certification from the American Board of Sleep Medicine. All practicing sleep technologists who have passed the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT) examination prior to Dec. 31, 2011, and are RPSGTs in good standing, are eligible to apply to the ABSM for RST equivalency status. This process gives RPSGTs an opportunity to obtain the new RST certificate without taking the ABSM Sleep Technologist Registry Examination. The deadline for RPSGTs to submit an equivalency application to the ABSM is March 31, and the application fee is $25.

AASM submits proposal to CMS for Innovative Care Delivery and Management Program for Patients with OSA

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Last Spring, the AASM introduced the Proposal for an Integrated Sleep Management Delivery Model that was presented to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) as a comprehensive model for sleep center accreditation. After the proposal was developed, the CMS Center for Innovation announced its Healthcare Innovation Challenge, which provides grants for original programs that test new care delivery and payment models while demonstrating reduced costs and improved health outcomes. Recognizing the value of participating in the Healthcare Innovation Challenge, the AASM’s Board of Directors devised a new, forward-thinking paradigm for clinical care of patients with OSA: the Innovation Care Delivery and Management Program for Patients with OSA (ICDMPPO).

Two funding opportunities aim to increase collaboration with health care providers

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institute of Health Common Fund recently issued a pair of Funding Opportunity Announcements (FOAs) intended to strengthen the national capacity to implement cost-effective large-scale research that engages health care providers as research partners.

HypnoGram: 10,000 Members

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM now has 10,000 members – one member for every lake in Minnesota or as many people as in the city of Aliquippa. This is an incredible milestone for all of us. I am told the first member was recruited in 1974 – and now we have our 10,000^th member. The AASM is the largest membership society dedicated to sleep medicine and is still growing! We are all acutely aware of the challenges ahead of us, but with 10,000 members and an influx of newly ABMS-certified sleep specialists, we are poised to continue to move the specialty of sleep medicine ahead.

AASM Nominating Committee call for nominations

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM invites nominations from the membership for one two-year term on the Nominating Committee. The Nominating Committee is charged with the evaluation of applications received from the membership and the recommendation of highly-qualified candidates for service in leadership capacities. Members interested in serving as the at-large member of the Nominating Committee are encouraged to submit their intent by 5:00 p.m. CT on Friday, February 17, 2012.

CMS releases guidance on appeals process for 'meaningful use' program

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

CMS has released guidance about the appeals process for health care providers who have failed to receive meaningful use incentive payments or are seeking to challenge their payout amount. Under the 2009 economic stimulus package, health care providers who demonstrate meaningful use of certified electronic health record systems can qualify for Medicaid and Medicare incentive payments.

Conference committee meets to address 'doc fix'

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Last week, a bicameral, bipartisan conference committee met to discuss extending a payroll tax cut and delaying the scheduled cuts to Medicare physician reimbursement rates. Lawmakers are discussing a yearlong extension of the initiatives, which must be passed before the short-term agreement expires at the end of February. Committee members from both parties were optimistic that they could reach an agreement, but Democrats and Republicans still disagree on how to offset the $160 billion cost of extending the tax cut and doc fix. Democrats want to increase taxes for high-income U.S. residents, while some House Republicans argue for a two-year delay of the cuts, which would be paid for in part with billions of reductions in federal health reform law spending.

Basics Management course - Early registration deadline approaching

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Registration is open for the Basics of Sleep Center Management course, which will be held on Mar 3, 2012 at the AASM national office in Darien, IL. Chaired by Dr. Amy Aronsky, the basics course is targeted to new sleep center managers or to staff looking to take on a management role. Network with other managers and learn tricks of the trade with sessions addressing accreditation, reimbursement, staffing, finances and marketing. Register today to take advantage of the discounted early registration fee by the Feb 3 deadline!

Deadline for AASM training course for new sleep technicians

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On March 5–16, 2012, the AASM will hold a two-week An Introduction to Sleep Technology: An A-STEP Course at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). Attendees of this training program will receive more than $1,100.00 worth of course material included with their registration fees, in addition to more than 30 hours of interactive, hands-on training from expert faculty.Centers interested in sending their new technicians to this course have the option to take advantage of a new financing option where you pay just $500 at the time of registration (the balance of the registration fee due 4 week prior to the course). The deadline to participate in this financing option is Monday, February 6, 2012.

Support the continuation of AASM resources by renewing your membership

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM works to provide members with timely updates and new resources. When issues affecting sleep medicine and sleep research professionals arise, AASM members are the first to know. The development of these resources is possible through the support of our members. Please renew your membership by February 29, 2012 to help the AASM advance the fields of sleep medicine and sleep research.

Intermediate Sleep Center Management Series to feature two full-day courses

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep center staff seeking information about current issues affecting the management of a sleep center can now register for the new AASM Intermediate Sleep Center Management Series to be held April 21–22, 2012 at the AASM national office (a suburb of Chicago). The weekend series will be divided into two full-day courses. Members of the AASM and the American Association of Sleep Technologists (AAST) can now register for these courses at a discounted rate.

SLEEP 2012 to feature several new educational opportunites for clinicians

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Featuring both the latest research and clinical developments in sleep medicine, SLEEP serves as an ideal opportunity for researchers and clinicians alike to learn about the latest advances in the multi-disciplinary field of sleep medicine. This year, in addition to many of the most popular educational sessions from previous meetings, the APSS has announced several new opportunities developed specifically for attendees in clinical practice. Visit www.sleepmeeting.org for the latest meeting information and to register before space fills up in our most popular ticketed sessions!

Statement in response to Jan. 16 NPR/Kaiser Health report

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine, which represents more than 10,000 sleep medicine physicians and professionals, would like to clarify some erroneous statements reported by Kaiser and NPR in its story

Sleep pioneer William C. Dement's cameo role in new movie

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

William C. Dement, MD, PhD, makes his big-screen debut the new comedy Sleepwalk with Me, which made its premiere at the Sundance Festival this week in Park City, Utah. The film stars stand-up comedian Mike Birbiglia, whose REM sleep behavior disorder has been the subject of a book and one-man show. Sleepwalk with Me is being presented in association with WBEZ Public Radio's This American Life. Host Ira Glass is a producer for the movie.

Dr. Dement, sometimes referred to as The Father of Sleep Medicine, has a voice cameo in Sleepwalk with Me narrating an audiotape of his own book as Birbiglia’s character begins falling asleep while driving. In 1975, Dr. Dement launched the American Sleep Disorders Association, now known as the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, and served as president for the first 12 years. No word if Sleepwalk with Me has found a national distributor.

Compliance program training podcasts now available

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) has developed a series of 11 podcasts addressing compliance training topics. The videos posted last week and this week address the development and implementation of a compliance program. In “Compliance Program Basics,” OIG staff highlights their Compliance Program Guidance (CPGs) resources. Tips for Implementing an Effective Compliance Program” builds on the concepts learned in the Basics podcast. The OIG training podcasts are available in audio only and video format on the OIG website. A transcript of each podcast is also available.

Transition to Version 5010

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The deadline for implementation of Version 5010 was Jan. 1 2012. However, as previously reported in the Dec 5 2011 Weekly Update, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) have delayed enforcement of this requirement for 90 days. Therefore, enforcement actions will not begin until April 1, 2012. In a recent statement, CMS encouraged providers to continue internal and external testing of Version 5010. To assist providers with a smooth transition, CMS has developed a new fact sheet highlighting important steps for health care providers. CMS strongly encourages providers to communicate regularly with applicable vendors. Use of a clearinghouse is also recommended during the transition to ensure that claims are submitted in the proper format. Finally, CMS identifies a number of transition resources, which can be downloaded on the CMS ICD-10 website.

SLEEP 2012 to feature important information for sleep professionals

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2012, the 26th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS) will take place June 9–13, 2012 in Boston, Massachusetts. This year’s meeting will feature a record number of scientific abstracts as well as several sessions focusing on the most important issues for today’s sleep professional. The AASM has compiled a list of ticketed sessions that are expected to sell out quickly and sessions of note during the SLEEP 2012 general session on the AASM website. A complete Preliminary Program will be available in February. A listing of ticketed events and sessions including postgraduate courses, meet the professors, lunch debates and information about the Sunday evening networking reception are now available at www.sleepmeeting.org.

Registration deadline approaching for Introductory Center Management course

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The advanced registration deadline for the AASM’s new Basics of Sleep Center Management course is next Friday, February 3, 2012. The course, which will be held on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at the AASM National Office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago), will provide individuals new to or interested in becoming involved in the management of a sleep center with a broad overview of sleep center management topics. To learn more, or to register, visit the Sleep Education Series portion of the AASM website.

Fully redesigned patient education brochures released - free samples

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is pleased to announce the release of a full new catalog of patient education brochures! The brochures—which feature new topics, content and design—have been updated to ensure that centers can provide their patients with important take-away material prior to and following appointments. The 19 new brochures cover definitions, symptoms, treatment options, tips and answers to frequently asked questions related to a variety of sleep medicine topics. In addition to revised content and designs, the new brochures have also been reduced in price by more than 30% for each pack of 50 brochures! And for a limited time, members interested in previewing the new brochures can receive a free sample of each brochure through the AASM Online Store. To take advantage of this offer, add a sample pack to any AASM Online Store order and click on the “Use a coupon/voucher” link in your shopping cart prior to entering your payment information. Enter the coupon code 12BROSP to get your free sample of each brochure (shipping and handling charge apply).

AASM reaches 10,000-member milestone

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is celebrating a huge milestone-10,000 active members! Our 10,000th member—Alireza Maghsoudi, MD, joined yesterday from Manassas, VA, We are honored that, like you, Dr. Maghsoudi recognizes the value of AASM membership. To show our appreciation for your loyal support, we are designating this week as Member Appreciation Week. All AASM members can take 35% off AASM online store purchases until 11:59:00 pm Central Time on February 1, 2012. No coupon is necessary—all qualified product orders will be discounted at checkout. Thank you for your continued support!

Deadline approaching for ASMF High School Essay Contest entries

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation is accepting entry forms for the 2011-2012 High School Topical Review in Sleep Contest through Monday, Feb. 6. This contest is intended to encourage an interest in sleep medicine and sleep research at the high school level. The ASMF will recognize outstanding topical review papers related to sleep, wakefulness, public health and disorders of sleep and daytime alertness that demonstrate an understanding of scientific research. U.S. High school students in their junior or senior year are eligible to enter. The first-place winner will receive a 3-day/2-night trip to Boston, Massachusetts with one parent/guardian to attend SLEEP 2012, and will be recognized with a commemorative plaque during the AASM General Membership Meeting on Monday, June 11, 2012 along with a $1,000 savings bond.

Volunteer for one of the AASM's six standing committees

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine is looking for volunteers to serve on a standing committee. Volunteer committee members provide an invaluable service to the AASM and membership by contributing to initiatives and projects that are critical to the continued development of the field. By volunteering, members will gain professional enrichment through the diverse activities of a committee. Members interested in serving must submit a two-page CV summary along with several forms available on the AASM website. All forms are due by February 20, 2012.

Medicare 'doc fix' debate delayed

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Scheduling conflicts and policy disagreement are expected to delay the start of negotiations on a Medicare "doc fix." House aides predict that the bipartisan, bicameral conference committee charged with developing the fix will not convene until next week. The current plan that extends the payroll tax cut and delays scheduled reimbursement cuts to Medicare physicians expires at the end of February.

AASM meets with federal lawmakers and agencies

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM was in Washington, D.C. last week and met with several federal lawmakers and agencies to discuss the importance of sleep. AASM representatives met with legislative aides for Senator Johnny Isakson (R-GA), Senator Richard Burr (R-NC), Senator Kay Hagan (D-NC), Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ), Senator John Kerry (D-MA), Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN), Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL) and Senator Patty Murray, (D-WA). Discussions focused on supporting the AASM’s proposal for an integrated care delivery model to the CMS Innovation Center, repealing the Sustainable Growth Rate (SGR), funding for NIH and sleep research and the possible effects of Health Care Reform. The AASM also met with several Federal Agencies including the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to strengthen ties, communicate the importance of effective sleep and the role of the AASM as sleep experts.

AASM to host an updated A-STEP Introductory course; financing option available

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Facilities can now register their new technicians for the AASM’s An Introduction to Sleep Technology: An A-STEP Course held March 5–16, 2012 and October 8–19, 2012, at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). During this two week course—accredited by the AASM as an Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program (A-STEP) Introductory Course—up to 20 sleep technicians will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of sleep technology through a mixture of didactic lectures, online learning, practical exercises and observation at a sleep center. The program, which will provide participants with the knowledge needed to begin a successful career in the field of sleep technology, has been updated for 2012 to ensure that the core competencies required for a sleep technologist’s daily duties at today’s sleep center are fully presented. Additionally, course registration fees now include over $1,100.00 worth of course material and centers can opt for a new financing option where you pay just $500 at the time of registration.

Lasts days to save on course registration and warm weather weekend in Phoenix

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The advanced registration deadline for the AASM’s new Sleep Medicine Therapies and the Business of Sleep Medicine for Physicians courses is next Friday, January 27, 2012. Register on or before this date to save more than 25% on registration fees when you register for both courses to be held at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix, Arizona from February 24, 2012 through February 27, 2012. Plan on attending the Sleep Medicine Therapies course if you wish to review the state-of-the-art in patient care management and the Business course to hear presentations on several business-related topics impacting sleep centers throughout the country.

SLEEP 2012 meeting registration is open

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Registration is now open for SLEEP 2012, the 26th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS), a joint meeting of the AASM and the Sleep Research Society (SRS). Visit www.sleepmeeting.org for the latest meeting information and to register before space fills up in our most popular ticketed sessions!

NIH transfers all National Center of Research Resources activities to other institutes and centers

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health recently issued announcement that details the agency's plan for programs formerly under the National Center of Research Resources (NCRR). On December 23rd, 2011 the NCRR was disbanded as part of the Fiscal Year 2012 Omnibus Appropriations bill. All NCRR programs, awards and applications will be transferred to other Institutes and Centers with the NIH. A list of affected programs and the new Institutes and Centers is available on the NIH website.

AASM visits Washington D.C. to promote public safety

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Representatives for the American Academy of Sleep Medicine were recently in Washington to meet with federal agencies and lawmakers to forge relationships based on promoting the importance of sleep. AASM President Nancy Collop, MD, said the timing couldn’t be better. Late last month, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) announced new rules for the maximum hours of work per shift and mandatory rest periods for passenger airline pilots and truck drivers. Sleep researchers and sleep scientists have been instrumental in assisting with the new transportation rules.

AASM in D.C. this week to promote importance of sleep, public safety

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Recent rule changes for pilot and trucker rest breaks seen as an encouraging step forward

ICD-10 transition podcast now available

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

In Nov 2011, CMS sponsored an extensive teleconference to prepare providers for the transition to the International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision (ICD-10). On Jan 4, 2012 CMS announced that it would provide the content of the Nov conference call in a podcast format. The podcast, as well as a number of other ICD-10 transition resources, are available on the CMS website.

HHS establishes HIPAA standards for Electronic Funds Transfers and Remittance Advice Transactions

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The Department and of Health and Human Services (HHS) has published an interim final rule, effective Jan. 1, 2012, outlining standards under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) for Health Care Electronic Funds Transfers (EFT) and Remittance Advice transactions (RA). By standardizing and streamlining electronic transactions, CMS projects that the new standards will reduce administrative costs by $4.5 billion for providers, hospitals, and private and government health plans over the next ten years. CMS anticipates that there will be little to no implementation costs for physician practices and hospitals complying with the new standards. HIPAA covered entities must be in compliance with the standards outlined in the rule by Jan 1, 2014.

The AASM recognizes its top member recruiters

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the AASM’s top Member-Get-A-Member Campaign recruiters for the month of December. These individuals are contributing to the growth of the organization by reaching out to their professional colleagues and encouraging them to join the AASM:

Sonia Ancoli-Israel, PhD, FAASM and Girardin Jean-Louis, PhD – 4 New Members
Michael A Grandner, PhD, and Laura A Linley, RPSGT, CRT – 2 New Members
21 Member Recruiters – 1 New Member

For each new member recruited, these individuals received a $15 Recognition of Excellence Money (REM) Voucher that can be used toward AASM products and course registrations. Each member referral also entered recruiters into a Grand Prize Drawing to win a complimentary 2013 AASM course registration (including travel expenses).

Free demo and video tutorial available for AASM's new Inter-scorer Reliability Program

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this month, the AASM announced a full program upgrade to the testing software for its online Inter-scorer Reliability (ISR) Testing Program. Current users of the program can now begin scoring using the new program, and individuals new to the program can preview its new features through a sample of 20 epochs and a 9-minute video tutorial. Highlights of this program upgrade include improved resolution, increased speed for one-pass or two-pass scoring, mouse and keyboard command options, improved ability to change epoch duration, increased visibility of scores, and more. To learn more about the program, or to sign up for a free 30-day trial, visit the ISR website.

ASMF grant deadlines are approaching

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The application deadlines are approaching for several grant opportunities from the American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF). Get complete details on the ASMF website at www.discoversleep.org about each of the 2012 grants.

Out of Center Sleep Testing Attestation period expires, full application now required

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The deadline has passed for facilities currently accredited by the AASM to submit Out of Sleep Center Testing Accreditation Participation Attestation forms. Prior to December 31, AASM Accredited sleep disorders centers that completed the form were eligible to earn accreditation for OCST for Adults Patients. A full application for OCST accreditation must now be completed to earn accreditation. If you want to add accreditation for out of center sleep testing to your sleep center accreditation, contact the AASM Accreditation Department.

HypnoGram: Happy New Year

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Wow, can you believe it is 2012?!! Now how long will it take you to date things correctly? I have already messed up three times! It promises to be a very exciting year – a national election, the Olympics, our biggest SLEEP annual meeting yet, the addition of the AASM’s 10,000th member, and who knows what else. One thing is for sure, it will be full of surprises.

OIG develops Stark Law compliance training video

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On Jan 3 the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) posted a new compliance training video addressing the Physician Self-Referral Law, also known as the “Stark Law.” A transcript of the presentation is also available.

Poor sleep affects young diabetics

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the January issue of SLEEP suggests that young diabetics may be struggling to get a good night’s sleep, resulting in worse control of their blood sugar, poorer school performance and misbehavior. Researchers from the University of Arizona also found that nearly one-third of the diabetic youths in their study had sleep apnea, regardless of weight.

Register Now: Sleep Medicine Therapies and Business Courses in Phoenix this February

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

On February 24-27, 2012, the AASM will host two courses at the Arizona Biltmore resort in Phoenix Arizona for physicians interested in the latest updates in sleep medicine. On Friday and Saturday, the new Sleep Medicine Therapies course will cover case-based discussions, pro/con debates and panel discussions to review over 15 controversial areas that sleep specialists encounter on a daily basis in clinical practice. And on Sunday and Monday, the Business of Sleep Medicine for Physicians course will focus on lectures in three primary areas essential to the operations of a sleep center: managing a sleep center; coding and reimbursement in 2012; and the future of sleep medicine practice. Physicians interested in learning about the state-of-the-art in patient care management and sleep center management should plan to attend both courses and can save more than 20% on registration fees when you register for the full weekend on or before the advanced registration deadline of January 27, 2012.

Apply for the ASMF Bridge to K Grant by Jan. 25

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation Bridge to K Research Award provides funding for sleep researchers that have applied for a K grant from the NIH, but are unlikely to be within the NIH cutoff. The ASMF will award up to two $75,000 Bridge to K Research Grants per year. Scientists who receive the award will have additional time and funding to collect further data and respond to NIH feedback. Applications for the award are due on Wednesday, January 25, 2012. Information on how to apply for the Bridge to K Research Award is available on the ASMF website.

AASM launches fully revised A-STEP Self-Study Modules - includes free module

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

Since 2006, the AASM’s Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program (A-STEP) has provided sleep technicians new to the field with the opportunity to received standardized education as they begin their careers in sleep technology. In an effort to ensure that this program covers information about the essential duties and core competencies of sleep technologists at today’s sleep center, the AASM has fully revised its online self-study module program!

The 23 new modules are now available on the A-STEP website and feature several improvements from the previous program. Each 30-minute module is now formatted as an audio-visual presentation which may be viewed on-demand from your A-STEP account. Upon completion of each module, there is a post-module self-assessment exam. Also updated is the pricing for the A-STEP self-study modules…module pricing has been reduced, and there is no longer a registration fee for the program! Additionally, individuals who wish to preview the program can view the first module, Welcome to Sleep Technology, for free. To learn more about the A-STEP self-study modules, including a listing of topics and to begin the program, visit the A-STEP website at www.aasmnet.org/astep.

Try the new AASM Inter-scorer Reliability Testing Program

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is pleased to announce a full program upgrade to the testing software for its online Inter-scorer Reliability (ISR) Testing Program! Now available on the January exam and recent exams, the new testing program will provide users with a significantly improved exam experience through multiple scoring and viewing options. A sample of 20 epochs using the new testing program is now available on the ISR website along with a 9-minute video tutorial. Centers currently using the ISR testing program can begin scoring using the new program immediately and centers that have not used the program may sign up for a free 30-day trial.

Poor sleep linked to increased health, behavior problems in young diabetics

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 00:00:00 -0500

A new study suggests that young diabetics may be struggling to get a good night’s sleep, resulting in worse control of their blood sugar, poorer school performance and misbehavior.

NHLBI grant announcement re-issued for research on prevention and treatment of sleep disordered breathing

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The NIH National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) re-issued a funding opportunity announcement (FOA) to support research dissemination and implementation studies (R18). The purpose of the grants is to test the effectiveness, sustainability and cost effectiveness of well-developed behavioral interventions in real-world settings that aim to reduce the risk factors and enhance the prevention and treatment of heart, lung and blood diseases and sleep disordered breathing. Submission begins on January 2, 2012; the application follows the standard due dates for NIH grants.

NHLBI posts Executive Summary of September workshop on sleep deficiency and sleep disorders

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In September 2011, the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) held a two-day workshop to discuss and identify opportunities for research to reduce disparities in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality coupled to sleep health. The workshop also aimed to advance the scientific understanding of the role of sleep in realizing optimal health outcomes. An executive summary with recommendations from the workshop was recently posted on the NHLBI website. Recommendations for future research ranged studies that effects of sleep impairment and sleep disorders across different populations to research to identify and understand the barriers to health care, diagnosis and treatment for sleep disorders.

Sleep disorders in police officers

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) looked at nearly 5,000 police officers in North America and found that 40.4% screened positive for some kind of sleep disorder, most commonly OSA. A smaller percentage of officers screened positive for insomnia and shift work sleep disorder. The study found that those officers who reported symptoms of a sleep disorder were more likely than those who didn’t to experience a variety of problems, including physical and mental illnesses, such as diabetes and depression; “uncontrolled anger” toward suspects; falling asleep while driving; and absenteeism.

Department of Transportation issues new rule to ensure truck driver rest time

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced a final rule that employs the latest research in driver fatigue to make sure truck drivers can get the rest they need to operate safely when on the road. The new rule by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) revises the hours-of-service (HOS) safety requirements for commercial truck drivers. FMCSA's new HOS final rule reduces the maximum number of hours a truck driver can work within a seven-day period by 12 hours. Under the new rule, a driver's work week is limited to 70 hours. In addition, truck drivers cannot drive after working eight hours without first taking a break of at least 30 minutes. The rule also requires truck drivers who maximize their weekly work hours to take at least two nights' rest when their 24-hour body clock demands sleep the most - from 1:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.

FAA issues rule on pilot fatigue

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently announced a final rule that overhauls commercial passenger airline pilot scheduling to ensure pilots have a longer opportunity for rest. The final rule includes varying flight and duty requirements based on what time the pilot's day begins, establishment of a "flight duty period", flight time limits of eight or nine hours, a 10-hour minimum rest period, cumulative flight duty and flight time limits and a congress-mandated fatigue risk management system (FRMP). An FRMP provides education for pilots and airlines to help address the effects of fatigue which can be caused by overwork, commuting, or other activities. Required training updates every two years will include fatigue mitigation measures, sleep fundamentals, the potential effects of commuting and the impact to a pilot’s performance.

Congress passes two-month Medicare extension

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Last week, the President signed a measure which provides a two-month extension that delays a 27% cut to physician Medicare reimbursement rates. The measure cleared the Democratic-controlled Senate and the Republican-controlled House of Representatives by unanimous consent, a procedural move allowing the measure to pass even though most members of Congress are home for the holiday recess. Among other things, the measure also includes a two-month extension of the payroll tax cut and emergency federal unemployment benefits.

Over the past few months, this issue has been fiercely debated in Congress. The AASM has actively followed this debate and encouraged members to speak out. The AASM sent multiple Special Updates to members about the status of the issue, with directions on how members can contact their Representative and a template letter to inform Representatives of the dire consequences if the cuts were enacted. House and Senate members will resume negotiations on a year-long extension of the “doc fix”, payroll tax and unemployment benefits when Congress reconvenes in January. AASM plans to keep members updated and will again provide information members can use to take action.

CMS announces extension of 2012 Annual Participation Enrollment

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In an announcement on December 22, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid notified health professionals of an extension of the 2012 Annual Participation Enrollment Period. The enrollment period will now run Mon Nov 14, 2011 through Tues Feb 14, 2012. Participation elections or withdrawals post-marked on or before Tue Feb 14, 2012 will be accepted. Participation status changes submitted during the extension period (Jan 1 – Feb 14, 2012) will have an effective date of Sun Jan 1, 2012 and will be in force for the entire year.

Education for new sleep center managers

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Individuals new to or interested in becoming involved in the management of a sleep center now have the opportunity to register for a new course through the AASM which will cover the topics necessary to begin a career in sleep center management. Basics of Sleep Center Management will be held on Saturday, March 3, 2012 at the AASM National Office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). During this one-day course, faculty will present a broad overview of sleep center managemnt topics. Members of the AASM and the American Association of Sleep Technologists (AAST) receive discounted pricing and can register on or before the advanced registration deadline of February 3, 2012 to save on registration fees.

AASM Inter-Scorer Reliability Testing program upgrade scheduled for January

Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Beginning in January, the AASM Inter-scorer Reliability Testing Program will receiving a full system upgrade to more closely resemble professional scoring software. The systems offers a greatly improved testing experience with larger records, the ability to score from a 120-second view and keyboard commands for faster scoring. For a closer look at the changes effective on January 1, 2012, try the Free Demo on the ISR website.

Holiday HypnoGram

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Happy Holidays! The AASM has been quite busy on numerous initiatives during this holiday season. We are working diligently on the proposal that the AASM will be submitting for the CMS Health Care Innovation Challenge. We also have had a Nominating Committee meeting during which a new president-elect and board member were proposed. Those names will be presented to the board of directors in January for approval. The SAD task force (Sleep Apnea Definitions) has been examining the current respiratory definitions in the scoring manual.

CMS announces it will hold 2012 claims for 10 business days

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In a special announcement published earlier this week, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) reported that Medicare claims administration contractors will be instructed to hold claims for services provided in 2012. The claims hold, which will last from Sunday, January 1 through Tuesday, January 17, will impact claims for services provided in 2012 only. Claims for services provided on or before December 31, 2011 will not be affected by this hold. This announcement comes as Medicare providers anticipate the 27.4% cut to payment outlined in the 2012 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule, which is expected to take effect on January 1, 2012. CMS has reported that they expect the claims hold will have a minimal impact on provider cash flow.

NIH grant opportunity announced for health outcomes related to maternal nutrition and pre-pregnancy obesity

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) issued by the NIH's National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) calls for Research Project grant (R01) applications for Maternal Nutrition and Pre-pregnancy Obesity: Effects on Mothers, Infants and Children. The FOA will facilitate research focused on improving health outcomes for women, infants and children. The FOA states that this can include interventions that target modifiable factors in the maternal pre- and post-natal environment which may modulate genetic susceptibility to obesity, such as sleep habits. Standard date and deadlines for NIH R01 grants apply for this funding opportunity.

Sleep disorders common among police officers

Wed, 21 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Untreated sleep disorders among police officers may be adversely affecting their health and safety and posing a risk to the public, according to study appearing in today’s issue of JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association). Nearly 5,000 officers were surveyed, with 40 percent screening positive for at least one sleep disorder, most of them previously undiagnosed.

Supreme Court schedules oral arguments addressing health care reform for March

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Supreme Court announced its schedule for oral arguments to determine the constitutionality of the federal health reform law. The court will devote a total of five-and-a-half hours to the case from March 26 to March 28, 2012. The court will hear aguments addressing such aspects of the law as the Anti-Injuction Act, the individual mandate and the issue of severability. A ruling could be issued in June.

AASM opens registration for Spring and Fall A-STEP introductory courses

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On March 5–16, 2012 and October 8–19, 2012, the AASM will provide up to 20 sleep technicians with the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of sleep technology at the updated An Introduction to Sleep Technology: An A-STEP Course. The two-week program, which will be held at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago), will provide participants with the practical skills that are essential for a successful career in the profession of sleep technology and will include a mixture of didactic lectures, online learning, practical exercises and observation at a sleep center. Accredited by the AASM as an Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program (A-STEP) Introductory Course, the program’s curriculum has been developed to align with the core competencies required in a sleep technologist’s daily duties. And because the program will be limited to 20 participants, each technician will receive personalized training and hands-on experience in addition to over $1,100.00 worth of course material included with their registration fees!

AASM Accredited Centers: Deadline for Out of Center Sleep Testing Attestations is December 31, 2011

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In February 2011, the AASM introduced an accreditation program for Out of Center Sleep Testing (OSCT) for Adult Patients. Facilities currently accredited by the AASM as a sleep disorders center are eligible to be awarded accreditation as an OCST provider by completing an Out of Center Sleep Testing Accreditation Participation Attestation Form by December 31, 2011. All AASM accredited centers must complete this form; if your center does not currently perform OCST, completion of this form is still required.
The AASM requests that centers complete their forms based on your facility’s current status as an OCST provider:

Earn CME online for the December 15 issue of JCSM

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The December 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine is now available on the recently revamped JCSM website. AASM members can login and earn continuing medical education (CME) credits by reading the full articles designated for CME and passing an online post-test within one year of the date of publication. Studies designated for CME credit in the October issue are: "The Effects of Altitude Associated Central Apnea on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Comparative Data from Three Different Altitude Locations in the Mountain West" and "Zolpidem Ingestion, Automatisms, and Sleep Driving: A Clinical and Legal Case Series"

NHLBI Funding Opportunity Announcement to establish Centers for Accelerated Innovations

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) recently announced it will publish a Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) to establish Centers for Accelerated Innovations (CAI). According to the NHLBI, the Centers are intended to tackle problems that hinder the critical, early steps necessary to translate novel scientific advances and discoveries into commercially viable diagnostics, devices, therapeutics and tools that improve patient care and advance public health. The Funding Opportunity Announcement will be published in Spring 2012 in the NIH Guide for Grants and Contracts. The receipt date is expected to be in Fall 2012.

New ASMF award provides sleep researchers with bridge to NIH K grant funding

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation recently announced the Bridge to K Research Award, a funding opportunity for sleep researchers that have applied for a K grant from the NIH, but are unlikely to be within the NIH funding cutoff. The Bridge to K Research Award increases the likelihood of a successful resubmission by providing scientists with additional time and funding to collect further data and respond to the NIH critique. The ASMF will award up to two $75,000 Bridge to K Research Grants per year. The deadline to apply for the Bridge to K Research Award is Wednesday, January 25, 2012.

Growth in health care spending, costs and employment declined in October

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

U.S. health care industry spending, price inflation and employment growth are trending downward, according to the December Health Sector Economic Indicators briefs released last week by the Altarum Institute's Center for Sustainable Health Spending. According to the briefs, total health care spending growth in October fell to 5%, from 5.2% in September because of reductions in hospital, physician services and nursing home spending. Health care spending as a share of the total economy, which is currently at 18.1%, shows signs of dropping to around 18% from its all-time high of 18.2% in June 2011.

House GOP extension of tax break includes two-year Medicare "doc fix"

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

House Republicans submitted a plan extending a $1,000 payroll tax break -- set to expire at the end of 2011 -- that includes a two-year "doc fix" to stave off scheduled cuts to Medicare physician reimbursement rates. The GOP plan includes a 1% increase for reimbursement rates over the next two years. The plan would pay for the $38 billion fix in part by limiting Medicare benefits for high-income beneficiaries. It also would offset the cost by redirecting funding from the federal health reform law that was intended for prevention and public health services. Also, CMS could briefly delay the impending Medicare physician payment rate cut if Congress appears to be on pace to reach an agreement on a doc fix before January 1. CMS previously has held physician payments for a brief period while lawmakers finalized deals to delay rate cuts.

Congratulations New Fellow Member of the AASM

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor which recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field. We are pleased to welcome Michael D. Alter as a new Fellow Member. If you are interested in becoming a Fellow member of the AASM, please review the requirements. All required documentation should be submitted to the AASM Membership Department. Please contact the AASM National Office if you have any questions regarding your membership status.

Join the AASM in Phoenix this February

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

As the weather turns colder throughout much of the United States, the AASM invites members to register for two courses at the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix, Arizona this winter! Sleep Medicine Therapies, to be held February 24–25, 2012, is a new course which will review over 15 controversial areas that sleep specialists encounter on a daily basis in clinical practice. And the Business of Sleep Medicine for Physicians course, to be held February 26–27, 2012, will cover important topics for any physician involved in the business aspects of clinical practice. Click ahead to learn more about the acclaimed Arizona Biltmore resort.

Full testing system upgrade scheduled for AASM's Inter-scorer Reliability Testing program

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is pleased to announce a full system upgrade to the testing software for its online Inter-scorer Reliability (ISR) Testing Program! The new testing system will be released for the January exam and will allow users of the program a significantly improved exam experience. Features of the new system will include default answers to greatly reduce the time needed to take each exam, the ability to score epochs using keyboard commands only and with no need to scroll down, and much more! The AASM is also reducing pricing for centers that are pending accreditation! Not registered for the ISR program yet? Now is the ideal time to take advantage of our free 30-day trial…visit the ISR website at www.aasmnet.org/isr to sign up today.

HypnoGram: Health Care Innovation Challenge

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM received an early Christmas gift this year. CMS has a process to apply for the “Health Care Innovation Challenge.” They are awarding up to $1 billion in grants for those who implement “the most compelling new ideas to deliver health, improved care and lower costs.” The AASM is up to the challenge, and we are planning to submit a modified version of our integrated care delivery model for obstructive sleep apnea. The award cycles are March 2012 and August 2012. We will submit our letter of intent by Dec. 19 and the full application by Jan. 27, 2012.

Lawmakers work to address scheduled Medicare cut as year-end deadline looms

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Congress has a only a few weeks before a scheduled cut of nearly 30% to Medicare physician payment rates is enacted. Since 2002, Congress annually has passed a series of short-term bills to block scheduled cuts to Medicare reimbursement rates. The most recent "doc fix" bill, enacted in December 2010, is scheduled to expire on Jan. 1, 2012, at which point physicians face a nearly 30% payment rate cut.

The AASM recognizes its top member recruiters

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the AASM’s top Member-Get-A-Member Campaign recruiter for the month of November: J Brian Allman, DDS, Diplomate, ABDSM. He and 24 other AASM members contributed to the growth of the organization by reaching out to their professional colleagues and encouraging them to join the AASM. For each new member recruited, these individuals received a $15 Recognition of Excellence Money Voucher that can be used toward AASM products and course registrations. Each referral also entered recruiters into a Grand Prize Drawing to win a complimentary 2013 AASM course registration (including travel expenses). Learn more about the AASM Member-Get-A-Member Campaign.

AASM publishes white paper on the Future of Sleep Medicine in the December issue of SLEEP

Tue, 06 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

An AASM white paper on how changes in health care delivery might impact the evaluation, management and treatment of patients with sleep disorders was published online in the December issue of the journal SLEEP. The white paper was compiled earlier this year based on reports by an AASM Presidential Task Force on the Future of Sleep Medicine and workgroups of thought leaders in the field. The white paper addresses three key topics: frameworks for healthcare delivery (such as patient-center medical home), patient registries and now outcome measures and tools for the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders.

Lobbyists will spend millions to influence outcome of reform law decision

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Lobbyists are expected to spend millions of dollars over the next few months trying to influence the U.S. Supreme Court's forthcoming decision on the constitutionality of the federal health reform law. Lobbyists' efforts are expected to include ideological appeals, arguments about the law's popularity among U.S. residents and campaigns that certain justices recuse themselves from the case. Four lawsuits challenging the law were presented to the justices, but the court selected only the multistate lawsuit filed by 26 states and the National Federation of Independent Business. The court also announced it accepted Health and Human Services petition to review the overhaul.

Berwick steps down as CMS Administrator, President Obama nominates Marilyn Tavenner

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Donald M. Berwick, MD, is resigning as Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), effective December 2, the Washington Post reports. The Obama administration has nominated Marilyn Tavenner, CMS' principal deputy administrator, to replace him. Dr. Berwick has occupied the post since July 2010 as a "recess appointment" by President Obama. As a recess appointee, Dr. Berwick had all the powers of a permanent appointee but could serve only until the end of 2011.

Registration opens for new Sleep Center Management courses

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In Spring 2012, the AASM will host several courses for sleep center managers at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). The courses have been designed for managers of all levels of experience, from those who are just entering sleep center management, to experienced/intermediate managers looking for information relevant to current issues affecting the management of a sleep center. Members of the AASM and the American Association of Sleep Technologists (AAST) can now register for these courses at a discounted rate: Basics of Sleep Center Management, Intermediate Sleep Center Management Series: Strategies for Successful Billing and Intermediate Sleep Center Management Series, Expanding and Improving Your Sleep Center Business

Deadline for SLEEP 2012 abstract submission is December 15

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2012, the 26^th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS), will be held June 9–13, 2012 at the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center in Boston, Mass. Abstract submissions for scientific oral and poster presentations are now being accepted through the meeting’s website until Thursday, December 15, 2011.

New Unopposed Poster Viewing Time! For the first time, SLEEP 2012 will feature unopposed poster viewing time for attendees on the evenings of Monday, June 11 and Tuesday, June 12! During this time, poster authors will be available to discuss their work with other attendees of the meeting. Additionally increased networking opportunities will be available at this time including a cash bar in the poster hall.

OIG issues semiannual report

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Semiannual Report to Congress covers findings, recommendations and activities for the six month period from March 31 to September 30.The highlights of the Semiannual Report note that "for FY 2011, we reported expected recoveries of about $5.2 billion consisting of $627.8 million in audit receivables and $4.6 billion in investigative receivables.” The report outlines the OIG's role in recovery of stolen and misspent funds as well as outreach and training of providers to help them understand rules, statutes and regulations. It also emphasizes the importance of the OIG's continues work to reduce improper payment.

CMS announces 90-day period of enforcement discretion for 5010 compliance

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) Office of E-Health Standards and Services (OESS) issued a statement on Nov. 17 clarifying their intentions with respect to enforcing compliance with Version 5010. The term Version 5010 refers to the new standards for electronic administrative transactions performed by HIPAA covered entities, such as claims submissions and receipt of remittance advice. The compliance date for use of the new standards continues to be January 1, 2012, as previously announced. However, the OESS indicates in the Nov. 17 statement that they will not initiate enforcement actions against non-compliant entities until March 31, 2012.

Slate asks "Is it healthy to sleep sitting up?"

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The science of sit-sleep? Slate magazine recently posed a question to AASM member Michael Decker, PhD, RN, at Georgia State University: Is it healthy to sleep sitting up? Occupy movement members, who sleep sitting up to bypass rules against camping on public property, inspired the story.

HypnoGram: Thanksgiving

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Oh what a great day Thanksgiving can be – good food, family and a good snooze during the football game! But wait, why do we celebrate Thanksgiving? Oh yeah, that Pilgrim and Native American thing. The first “American Thanksgiving” probably occurred in the 1500s in Saint Augustine, Florida; but for the Pilgrims, the official date was Dec. 13, 1621. In 1789, our first president, George Washington, decreed the first “United States” Thanksgiving Day; but it still wasn’t an official holiday. Abraham Lincoln set aside the last Thursday in November as the national day of Thanksgiving; but again, not until 1941 did Congress permanently establish the day, the fourth Thursday in November, as a national holiday.

Regis Philbin's exit brings to mind SLEEP study about retirees

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

When 80-year-old Regis Philbin bid farewell last week to his longtime stint as daytime talk show co-host, the Los Angeles Times seized the opportunity to revisit various studies that followed the health of retirees after they left their jobs. Among the statistics cited was a 2009 study from the journal SLEEP, which looked at the sleeping habits of 14,714 retirees who worked for a French national gas and electric company. They were interviewed seven years before and after retiring. The conclusion? Sleep improved significantly after retirement.

Congress acts to eliminate 3 percent withhold

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Last week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 674, that prevents a planned 3 percent tax-withhold for many Medicare payments, by a vote of 422-0. The Senate passed this legislation on November 10 by a vote of 95 to 0. The statute, originally passed in 2006 and delayed several times, called for all federal, state, and local government payments to those providing services or goods to have 3 percent of their payment withheld until the following tax year in an effort to increase tax compliance. However, the original statute was overly broad and would have applied even to Medicare payments made to physicians. The legislation, now headed to President Obama for his expected signature, repeals this provision of law and eliminates the planned withholding.

Congressional debt panel will not reach agreement

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Republican and Democratic leaders of a 12-member congressional "super committee" issued a joint statement on Monday indicating that the group will not reach an agreement. The panel was tasked with finding at least $1.2 trillion in budget savings over 10 years. However, Republicans said Democrats want to rely too heavily on new tax revenue and will not accept significant cuts to entitlement programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid. Democrats said Republicans are unwilling to allow new taxes to balance spending cuts. If the panel does not finalize an agreement before Thanksgiving, $1.2 trillion in automatic spending cuts over 10 years will be implemented beginning in 2013. If a debt agreement is not reached, House and Senate leaders will have to take action on the sustainable growth rate (SGR) issue. Because the panel is unlikely to offer a plan to Congress, lawmakers must act quickly to fix to the SGR. The most recent "doc-fix" bill, enacted in December 2010, is scheduled to expire on Jan. 1, 2012, at which point physicians face a nearly 30% payment rate cut.

Application deadline approaching for 2012 Young Investigator Research Forum

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The application process for the 2012 AASM Young Investigator Research Forum must be completed by Friday, Dec. 2, 2011. The forum will provide young investigators the opportunity for collegial interaction with established senior faculty members across the broad spectrum of clinical sleep research, as well as NIH scientific and program officers. Please visit the AASM website to download the application for the 2012 Young Investigator Research Forum.

Take advantage of free shipping on the AASM Online Store until Dec. 2

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

From now until Friday, December 2, 2011, the AASM will be offering free shipping through the AASM Online Store on all UPS Ground orders to the 48 contiguous United States. This includes orders for all of our most popular products including reference manuals, patient education brochures (non-personalized), educational CD-ROMs and more!

ASMF accepting entries in the High School Review in Sleep Science Contest

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

To encourage an interest in sleep medicine and sleep research at the high school level, the American Sleep Medicine Foundation is now accepting entry forms for the 2011 – 2012 High School Topical Review in Sleep Science Contest. This contest recognizes excellence in the understanding of scientific research and in the preparation of a topical review paper related to sleep, wakefulness, public health, and disorders of sleep and daytime alertness. U.S. High school students in their junior or senior year are eligible to enter. The first-place winner will receive a 3-day/2-night trip to Boston, Massachusetts with one parent/guardian to attend SLEEP 2012, and will be recognized with a commemorative plaque during the AASM General Membership Meeting on Monday, June 11, 2012 along with a $1,000 savings bond. Entry forms must be received by Monday, February 6, 2012

NIH issues challenge to promote science in the classroom

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health is looking for ideas for inexpensive and highly feasible K-12 classroom experiments to help generate interest in the science. The Lessons About Bioscience (LAB) Challenge is the perfect opportunity to help promote awareness of sleep. Each entry must have at least one clear learning objective related to health and life science, use safe and inexpensive materials and take less than 90 minutes to complete. The deadline to enter in the LAB Challenge is December 15, 2011.

The National Sleep Research Network: A time to get together

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In 2008, the National Sleep Research Network (SRN) was established to address a gap in the sleep medicine research infrastructure needed to support collaborative research. The SRN aims to create a forum for sleep researchers to connect and form collaborations to promote clinical and translational sleep research that requires large-scale, coordinated and multidisciplinary approaches. The most recent SRN conference, supported in part by the AASM, occurred on October 5-6, 2011 and was attended by 61 participants representing 43 institutions, officials from the NIH and members of the Sleep Research Society (SRS) and the AASM. To learn how to participate in future collaborative efforts, go to the Sleep Research Network website.

Transitioning to ICD-10 – new CMS resources available

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Effective Oct. 1, 2013, all Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) covered entities will be required to transition to the ICD-10 code sets. To help providers prepare for this transition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has developed a number of informational handbooks. The handbooks, which are specific to the type and size of the provider’s practice, include relevant timelines and templates to assist in the transition.

AASM provides support for NIH Sleep and Circadian Biology Datablitz

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Monday, November 14, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) hosted a Sleep and Circadian Biology Datablitz in Washington, D.C. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine supported the event by providing an educational grant. The fast-paced Datablitz featured one-minute presentations on recent research developments in Sleep and Circadian Biology. Representatives from the National Center on Sleep Disorders Research and various NIH institutes were on hand to discuss the findings.

AASM President pens ethics column for American Medical Association

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

AASM President Nancy Collop, MD, authored the ethics piece for the Nov. 7 issue of American Medical News, published by the American Medical Association (AMA). Dr. Collop answered the AMA-supplied question, “What should doctors tell patients about insomnia medications?” In addition to setting the record straight, Dr. Collop was able to promote responsible sleep medicine practices and further the Academy’s message.

New deficit-reduction plans from Democrats and Republicans

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Democrats on the debt panel have offered a revised deficit-reduction plan that would reduce the federal deficit by $2.3 trillion over 10 years by cutting $400 billion from Medicare and Medicaid. The plan would cut government spending by $1 trillion and raise $1 trillion in tax revenues. Republicans countered the Democrats' plan with their own revised proposal. The plan would reduce the deficit by $1.5 trillion over 10 years by increasing tax revenue by $300 billion and raising the Medicare eligibility age from 65 to 67.

Supreme Court to review health care reform act

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Supreme Court on Monday announced that it will review the legal challenges against the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in early spring 2012. Four lawsuits challenging the law were presented to the justices, but the court selected only the multistate lawsuit filed by 26 states and the National Federation of Independent Business. The Supreme Court also announced it has accepted HHS' petition to review the overhaul. It is expected that justices will allow about five and a half hours for oral arguments in the case. The court will also review whether the suit is barred by the Anti-Injunction Act, which prohibits the court from hearing a suit until the plaintiffs can prove harm. In this case, the challenge to the Affordable Care Act could not be heard until 2014 when the individual mandate, and, subsequently, the penalty for not obtaining health insurance, takes effect.

CMS revises revalidation of provider enrollment timeline

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In a Nov. 4 message, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that it will extend the provider enrollment revalidation process for another 2 years. As a result, revalidation notices will be sent through Mar. 2015 (previously Mar. 2013). The provider enrollment revalidation process is required for all providers who enrolled prior to Mar. 25, 2011. Despite the extension of the overall revalidation timeline, providers who have been sent revalidation letters must respond to the request. Revalidation request letters will continue be sent to providers by their Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs) between now and Mar. 2015. Providers must wait to complete the revalidation process until they receive a request letter from their MAC.

Full course schedules for the AASM’s new Sleep Medicine Therapies and Business courses Now Available

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On February 24-27, 2012, the AASM will host two courses for sleep medicine physicians at the Arizona Biltmore resort in Phoenix Arizona. On Friday and Saturday, the new Sleep Medicine Therapies course will cover case-based discussions, pro/con debates and panel discussions to review over 15 controversial areas that sleep specialists encounter on a daily basis in clinical practice. And on Sunday and Monday, the Business of Sleep Medicine for Physicians course will focus on lectures in three primary areas essential to the operations of a sleep center: managing a sleep center; coding and reimbursement in 2012; and the future of sleep medicine practice.

NIH releases updated Sleep Disorders Research Plan

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health recently released the 2011 NIH Sleep Disorders Research Plan. The plan identifies research opportunities to be pursued over the next three to five years in order to spur new approaches to the prevention and treatment of sleep disorders. The new plan expands upon previous and current research programs identified in the 1996 and 2003 plans.

SLEEP 2012 to feature new session formats

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS) Program Committee is now accepting session proposals for SLEEP 2012, including Postgraduate Courses, Clinical Workshops, Discussion Groups and Symposia. New this year are Bench to Bedside Integrated Sessions, presenting attendees with the latest advances in translational science and clinical applications on a specific topic. Also new are Business-related Clinical Workshops, which cover topics focusing on business aspects of running a sleep center, including economic, legal, polical and social issues. Attendees can also submit a challenge case to be discussed in the new Morning Report Case Session. Get complete details on the new programs in the SLEEP 2012 Call for Abstracts and Session Proposals.

Presidential Memorandum encourages agencies to bring research breakthroughs to the marketplace

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

President Obama recently issued a Presidential Memorandum titled “Accelerating Products from the Science Lab to the Marketplace.” According to a White House release, the memo is intended to make startups receive grants 50 percent faster, by streamlining and accelerating the process for private-public research partnerships, small business research and development grants and university-startup collaborations. The memo also gives agencies more flexibility to partner with industry and share resources. The White House is directing federal agencies to develop a five–year plan with concrete goals and metrics to measure progress, including tracking number of patents each lab generates.

National Government Services reports high CPAP claims error rate

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In a recent newsletter, National Government Services (NGS) reported on a recent prepayment medical review of claims for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices. NGS, the Durable Medical Equipment Medicare Administrative Contractor for Jurisdiction B, reported that the results of the review of 100 claims indicate a claims error rate of 81 percent. NGS reports that following a review of their findings, their Medical Review department will continue prepayment review of claims for CPAP. NGS encourages providers to review their local coverage determination (LCD) for Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) Devices for Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Negotiations at a stall for debt panel

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Debt panel negotiations appeared to have stalled as Democrats and Republicans could not agree on entitlement cuts and revenue increases as part of a deficit-reduction proposal. Democrats continue to press for more revenue through tax increases while Republicans seek cuts to Medicare, Medicaid and other health programs. Both Democrats and Republicans have submitted separate proposals to the Congressional Budget Office for scoring, suggesting the two sides remain deeply divided over the issues. Currently, the panel has no further meetings scheduled before its Thanksgiving deadline for releasing a budget plan.

CMS Announces two-year delay of revalidation effort

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

CMS recently launched an effort to revalidate the enrollment of every provider and supplier by March 23, 2013 pursuant to the program integrity screening provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA). CMS recently decided to extend the revalidation effort by two years. CMS also announced numerous, significant improvements to the online Medicare Provider Enrollment, Chain, and Ownership (PECOS) system that should make revalidation less onerous for physicians. These improvements to PECOS will be implemented before most physicians are asked to revalidate

The AASM recognizes its top member recruiters

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the AASM’s top Member-Get-A-Member Campaign recruiters for the month of September. These individuals are contributing to the growth of the organization by reaching out to their professional colleagues and encouraging them to join the AASM: J Brian Allman - two New Members - and the 17 members who recruited one new member. For each new member recruited, these individuals received a $15 Recognition of Excellence Money (REM) Voucher that can be used toward AASM products, course registrations and more. Each member referral also entered recruiters into a Grand Prize Drawing to win a complimentary 2013 AASM course registration (including travel expenses).

Business course for physicians opens for registration

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Covering important topics for any physician involved in the business aspects of clinical practice, the Business of Sleep Medicine for Physicians course, on February 26-27 at the Arizona Biltmore resort in Phoenix Arizona, will focus on managing a sleep center; coding and reimbursement in 2012; and the future of sleep medicine practice. The diverse faculty, including sleep physicians, attorneys, accountants, Medicare specialists and more will provide attendees with essential information that can help to ensure that your center is maximizing operations, patient care and profitability. Registration for the course is now open.

AASM accredited centers: Deadline for Out of Center Sleep Testing Attestations is Dec. 31

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Serve as a host site for the Mini-Fellowship for International Scholars

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM mini-fellowship program for international scholars helps international physicians from underdeveloped countries with the resources needed to improve the quality of sleep-related health care in their home country through practical training in clinical sleep medicine.The AASM is currently seeking applications from accredited sleep centers to serve as a host site for the 2012 mini-fellowship program. A host site is responsible for assigning one member of the center's staff to mentor the fellow and provide three weeks of on-site training with hands-on teaching to address the international fellow’s individual needs.Up to 10 host sites are needed for the program. The application deadline is Dec. 5, 2011.

Medicare issues 2012 Physician Fee Schedule display copy

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Nov. 1 the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a final rule for services paid under the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) for the 2012 calendar year. Comments to the final rule are being accepted by CMS through Jan. 3, 2012.

HypnoGram: Membership Renewal

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

I just returned from our fall Board of Directors meeting. In the upcoming weeks, I will be giving you information on many of the initiatives we discussed including our new Standards of Practice procedures, a new process for updating the scoring manual, the progress on the ICSD-3, our integrated management proposal, a taskforce examining advanced practice nurses and PAs, the update on respiratory events scoring, and lots more. I want to use this week’s blog to encourage you to renew your AASM membership for 2012. We are rapidly growing and hope that we will have 10,000 members before the end of next year.

Loneliness & sleep quality study draws widespread media coverage

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Tuesday, Nov. 1, numerous major media outlets including Reuters, the Los Angeles Times and HealthDay reported on the study “Loneliness is Associated with Sleep Fragmentation in a Communal Society.” The study was published in the November issue of the journal SLEEP. Researchers found that in a group of 95 adults living in rural South Dakota, the subjects who reported greater amounts of loneliness had more disruptions to their sleep. The study also received coverage by WebMD, CBS Radio and CNN.com.

Access the Nov. 1 Issue of SLEEP online and on Kindle devices

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Nov. 1 issue of the journal SLEEP is available today, and AASM members can access the latest findings online and on all Kindle-enabled devices. Kindle subscriptions are available for purchase through Amazon. With a subscription, new issues will be automatically delivered to your Kindle or your iPad, iPhone or Android Kindle app on the date of publication. AASM members have access to the full text of each article and earn CME by reading designated articles when you login to the journal SLEEP website.

Apply for ASMF Educational Projects, Humanitarian Projects & Strategic Research Awards

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) is committed to supporting the education and training of sleep scientists and is pleased to offer the Educational Projects Award, the Humanitarian Projects Award and the Strategic Research Award as part of the ASMF 2012 grant cycle. The submission deadline for these grants is Jan. 17, 2012.

Download the AASM ICSD-2/ICD-9 Coding Crosswalk iPhone app

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The ICSD-2/ICD-9 Coding Crosswalk app provides iPhone users with a quick clinical reference to complement the International Classification of Sleep Disorders – Second Edition. Physicians can select a sleep disorder diagnosis, and the app will display the corresponding ICD-9-CM code, along with section, category and subcategory information, descriptors and, in some cases, special coding instructions. Users can bookmark frequently-referenced codes and write corresponding memos using the app’s notes feature.

UnitedHealthcare excludes Silenor from pharmacy benefits coverage

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

UnitedHealthcare is updating its pharmacy benefits coverage and excluding Silenor as a pharmacy benefit designation. In a letter to the AASM, the provider announced a Pharmacy Drug List (PDL) Management Committee determined the drug would remain excluded under the provider’s pharmacy benefit. The changes to the pharmacy benefits coverage go into effect on January 1, 2012.

House passes 3 percent tax-withhold bill

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The U. S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 674 by a vote of 405-16 that prevents a planned 3% tax-withhold for many Medicare payments. The statute, originally passed in 2006 and delayed several times, called for all federal, state, and local government payments to those providing services or goods to have 3% of the payment withheld until the following tax year in an effort to increase tax compliance. However, the original statute was overly broad and would have applied even to Medicare payments made to physicians. The bill goes on to the Senate where a similar proposal fell three votes short of the needed 60 last week.

U.S. Supreme Court to discuss health reform on Nov. 10

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to discuss whether it will review any of the lawsuits against the federal health reform law during a private conference on November 10. Four lawsuits are pending before the court, including the multistate lawsuit in which 26 states and the National Federation of Independent Business are plaintiffs. The high court must decide on which issues it wants to rule. It might decide to consider only challenges to the individual mandate or combine issues from several different cases. Should the court decide to review the reform law, oral arguments likely would be scheduled for early spring 2012, with a decision by the end of June.

Democrats and Republicans on debt panel submit separate deficit-reduction proposals

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Democrats offered a proposal that would reduce the deficit by almost $3 trillion over 10 years through a mix of spending cuts and revenue increases, including $500 billion in cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. Republicans presented a $2.2 trillion proposal that would increase Medicare premiums by $200 billion and cut $585 billion from health programs. The proposal would cut $300 billion from Medicare, $185 billion from Medicaid and $100 billion from other health-related programs. The proposals were reviewed in a public hearing on November 1st.

Medicare implements new fraud detection system

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The system, which was mandated in the Small Business Jobs Act of 2010 (SBJA), is designed to detect and flag potentially fraudulent claims in real time. Claims are streamed through the predictive modeling technology as they are submitted. Based on the data in the claims, the system builds profiles of providers, networks, billing patterns and beneficiary utilization. Based on these profiles, CMS can create estimates of fraud and flag potentially fraudulent claims. Though the predictive modeling system is designed to identify potential fraud, claims are not being denied exclusively based on alerts generated by the system at this time.

Member-Get-A-Member Grand Prize Winner Announced

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to Raquel Rothe, CRT, RRT, who is the Grand Prize Winner of the 2011 AASM Member-Get-A-Member (MGM) campaign. Ms. Rothe will receive a free AASM course registration, including hotel and travel! All AASM members are invited to participate in the 2012 MGM campaign. For every new or reinstated AASM Regular or Fellow Member that you recruit for the 2012 membership year, you will receive a $15 Recognition of Excellence Money Voucher that can be used toward AASM resources and entry into a drawing for a complimentary 2013 course registration. And don’t forget to renew your own AASM 2012 membership online!

New Sleep Medicine Therapies course for physicians opens for registration

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

During the new Sleep Medicine Therapies course, scheduled for February 24-25, 2012 at the Arizona Biltmore resort in Phoenix, Arizona, faculty will utilize case-based discussions, pro/con debates and panel discussions to review over 15 controversial areas that sleep specialists encounter on a daily basis in clinical practice. Featuring several hot-topics in the field, presentations will include: the use of circadian bio-markers in clinical practice by Phyllis Zee, MD, PhD; improving CPAP compliance by Terri Weaver, PhD and many more. Registration for this course is now open. For more information about this course—including topics, faculty and CME information—or to register, please visit the AASM website.

Discount pricing on pediatric sleep medicine products this November

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

During the month of November, take 25% off of pediatric sleep medicine products from the AASM. Equip staff at your facility with the resources needed to provide effective treatment to pediatric patients through the purchase of these products including educational slide sets, patient education brochures and the AASM’s Making Sleep Studies Child Friendly DVD. To order bedtime stories for your pediatric patients, or to take advantage of the sale on pediatric sleep medicine products, visit the AASM Online Store.

Poor sleep quality in first, third trimesters linked to preterm births

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study published in the Nov. 1 issue of the journal SLEEP shows a significant risk for preterm birth in women reporting sleep disruptions during their first and third trimesters. The connection remained even after medical risk factors and income levels were taken into account.

How lonely you are may impact how well you sleep, research shows

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Loneliness is not only heartbreaking, it breaks up a normal night’s sleep, a new study shows. Researchers say compromised sleep may be one pathway by which feelings of loneliness adversely affect our health.

Submit your abstract and session proposals for SLEEP 2012

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Take part in this meeting by submitting a scientific abstract or session proposal. Individuals may begin submitting their abstracts and proposals beginning Friday, October 28, 2011. Guidelines for the submission of abstracts and proposals are now available in the SLEEP 2012 Call for Abstracts and Session Proposals or on the meeting’s website at www.sleepmeeting.org. Session proposals will be accepted through Thursday, December 1, 2011. Abstract submissions for oral presentations and poster presentations will be accepted through Thursday, December 15, 2011.

AASM accepting applications for the 2012 Young Investigator Research Forum

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Applications are now being accepted for the 2012 AASM Young Investigator Research Forum. The forum will provide young investigators the opportunity for collegial interaction with established senior faculty members across the broad spectrum of clinical sleep research, as well as NIH scientific and program officers. The application process must be completed by Friday, Dec. 2, 2011. Please visit the AASM website to download the application for the 2012 Young Investigator Research Forum.

Revised NIH Grants Policy Statement Published

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) recently announced a revision to the NIH Grants Policy Statement. The revision replaces the NIH Grants Policy Statement (10/2010) as a standard term and condition of award. This applies only to NIH grants and cooperative agreements with budget periods beginning on or after October 1, 2011. According to the NIH announcement, the revision does not introduce any new material, but instead incorporates new and modified requirements, clarifies certain policies and implements changes in statutes, regulations and policies that have been applied since the previous Grants Policy Statement. A summary of the changes is available to download on the NIH website.

NIH 5th Annual Dissemination and Implementation Conference is March 19-20, 2012

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The 5th Annual NIH Conference on the Science of Dissemination and Implementation: Research at the Crossroads will be held March 19-20, 2012, at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center in Rockville, Md. The conference will facilitate communicating and networking for researchers, evaluators and implementers who are interested in identifying opportunities and strategies for overcoming obstacles for dissemination and implementation research/evaluation. There is no fee for registration. Abstracts for posters, oral presentations, and panel sessions are invited. The deadline for proposals is Nov. 10, 2011.

Submit your electronic prescribing incentive hardship exemption request by Tuesday, Nov. 1

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The submission deadline is Tuesday, Nov. 1 for Electronic Prescribing (eRx) Incentive Program hardship requests. Providers must submit requests on the CMS electronic submission site to avoid the Medicare ePrescribing penalty that starts January 1, 2012. Eligible providers who do not successfully prescribe electronically per Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requirements will receive a penalty of -1 percent of allowable changes.

Congressional support grows for SGR repeal in deficit package

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this month, a bipartisan letter signed by 113 members of the U.S. House of Representatives was sent to the Joint Select Committee on Deficit Reduction (or “super committee”) urging it to include repeal of the sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula in its final deficit reduction legislation. The letter highlighted that further short-term patches to the SGR would “continue to distort the picture of our nation’s fiscal status” and increase the cost of a permanent solution. It urged the committee to repeal the SGR and replace it with “a payment system that promotes efficiency, quality and value and ensures access to medical services for Medicare beneficiaries.”

CMS offers hospitals guidance for meeting meaningful use criteria

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

CMS has released additional guidance for hospitals on the process of attesting to the meaningful use of electronic health records (EHR). Under the 2009 federal economic stimulus package, health care providers who demonstrate meaningful use of certified EHR systems can qualify for Medicaid and Medicare incentive payments.CMS' guidance also states that:

If hospitals have concerns about the accuracy of submitted data, facilities should work with their vendor or the Office of the National Coordinator for Health IT to improve the accuracy of their equipment; and
Hospitals should save a copy of the clinical quality measures report as evidence of attestation in case the data are needed for an audit.

CMS releases final rules on ACO’s

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The federal health reform law requires federal health programs to begin contracting with ACOs starting in January 2012. ACOs aim to lower costs and improve care by fostering cooperation between physicians, hospitals and other providers. HHS estimates that ACOs will save Medicare between $510 million and $960 million during the first three years. CMS released proposed ACO rules over the summer. However, the response from stakeholders were mostly unfavorable. Comments ranged from requesting that the management of ACOs should be simplified to arguing that rule creates too many bureaucratic and legal hurdles. Groups also commented that the number of quality standards will require excessive data management and are worried that potential savings are limited.

Health and Human Services (HHS) solicits opinions from health provider groups on essential benefits

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Health and Human Services (HHS) conducted a private meeting last week with health care provider groups to discuss the elements of an "essential health benefits" package in new state-based health insurance exchanges. The federal health reform law mandates that by January 2014 states must create insurance exchanges that provide coverage options for individuals and small businesses. States can choose to administer their own exchanges, for which they must have some infrastructure in place by January 2013, or ask the federal government to run the exchanges for them.

Final days for October sale on personalized patient education brochure orders

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Until October 31, 2011, AASM individual and center members have the opportunity to save $20.00 on each pack of 100 personalized patient education brochures ordered from the AASM (a savings of more than 30%). An exclusive benefit of membership, ordering personalized brochures allows you to have your contact information professionally printed on the back of any of the AASM's more than 25 patient education brochures. Personalized patient education brochures are an ideal take-away for sleep awareness events in your community or to distribute to patients and prospective patients at your facility. For more information about personalized brochures, including design guidelines, visit the AASM Online Store.

AASM offers last minute sleep medicine board review resources

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Planning to take the October 27, 2011 or November 10, 2011 American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) sleep medicine certification exam? With time running out to prepare, be sure to take advantage of several online review resources through the AASM Online Learning Center including board review and scoring practice exams, 200-epoch scoring reviews, and board review online learning modules. Each of these on-demand resources allows you to sharpen your skills on exam topics from your own home or office. To learn more about each of these resources, or to begin your exam review, visit the AASM Online Learning Center.

Classification system proposed for outpatient sleep apnea testing devices

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A new classification system that details the type of signals measured by out-of-center testing devices for obstructive sleep apnea appears in the October issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. The system categorizes out-of-center devices based on measurements of Sleep, Cardiovascular, Oximetry, Position, Effort and Respiratory (SCOPER) parameters. The paper also describes the criteria for evaluating the devices, based on pre-test and post-test probabilities.

House Democrats and Senate Republicans offer debt-reduction recommendations

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

House Democrats from 16 committees and Republicans on the Senate Finance Committee submitted their deficit-reduction recommendations to the debt panel. The 12-member panel, also known as the "supercommittee", had requested House and Senate committees to submit their ideas at the end of last week. House Democrats recommended maintaining the current Medicare eligibility age, reducing waste and fraud and maintaining programs established by the health care reform. Senate Republicans recommended repealing the federal health reform law, overhauling medical malpractice and turning Medicaid into a block grant system.

HypnoGram: Electronic medical record

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

I am far from a computer geek. However, I spend so much time on a computer that I have come to know my way around adequately. As president of the AASM, I am trying to understand and determine what direction we should go with in regards to the electronic medical record (EMR). As most of you are aware, as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, Congress developed a formula of incentives and penalties for EMR adoption; and, by the way, the penalties begin in 2015.

Earn CME online for the October 15 issue of JCSM

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The October 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine is now available on the newly launched JCSM website. AASM members can login and earn continuing medical education (CME) credits by reading the full articles designated for CME and passing an online post-test within one year of the date of publication. Studies designated for CME credit in the October issue are: “Comparison of Adjustable and Fixed Oral Appliances for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea” and “Long-Term Use of a Nasal Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure (EPAP) Device as a Treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).” Visit the JCSM website for a full list of articles eligible for CME, or for detailed instructions on how to earn CME.

Renew your membership online for 2012

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

You can now renew your AASM 2012 membership online! Renew today to continue receiving the journal SLEEP and Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine online, coding and reimbursement support, national and local representation, discounts on professional resources, education and networking opportunities and much more! To renew your membership, register an account or login to the AASM website. Renewal invoices will be mailed to members in late October and are currently available for download online, allowing you to renew via mail or fax. Please contact the AASM membership department with questions regarding your membership at 630-737-9756 or AASMmembership@aasmnet.org

Congratulations to new Fellow Member of the AASM

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor which recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field. We are pleased to welcome Syed J Murtaza, MD, FAASM as a new Fellow Member. If you are interested in becoming a Fellow member of the AASM, please review the requirements on the AASM website.

Medicare Announces National Provider Call about Revalidation of Enrollment

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In an August Weekly Update Article, the AASM announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will be requiring a revalidation process for providers who enrolled in the Medicare program prior to Mar 25, 2011. CMS has indicated that most providers will need to revalidate enrollment. On Thursday Oct 27 from 12:30-2pm ET, CMS will hold a National Provider Call to review information related to the revalidation process. For more information, and to register for this free session, the AASM has provided a link to the CMS call registration website in the full version of this article.

Health care reform overview: Investments and financing

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The last article in the continuing series on the Patient Protect and Affordable Care Act focuses on bill’s Investments and Financing. AASM legislative analysts explain how the bill includes investments in Medicare, the workforce, community and school-based health centers, trauma care and more. The article also details how the costs of providing coverage to an estimated additional 32 million Americans at $938 billion over ten years will be financed.

AASM accredits another non-Medicare DME supplier

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM congratulates Sleep Disorders Clinic of Dallas in Plano, Texas, which is the latest durable medical equipment (DME) supplier to earn AASM Accreditation of Non-Medicare DME Suppliers. Facilities interested in earning AASM DME supplier accreditation can visit the AASM website to view and download the standards and application for this program. By earning AASM DME supplier accreditation, a facility will have the opportunity to: obtain integrated sleep medicine accreditation, gain recognition as a DME provider that meets the highest standards of quality and enhance its eligibility for non-Medicare insurance reimbursement.

New JCSM website offers leading science in an accessible, easy to read format

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine website received a complete redesign to coincide with the launch of the October 15th issue. The new website gives readers access to all journal content in an HTML-based format, readable on any browser or internet-ready device without downloading any files. The AASM also offers alternative ways to read the JCSM. Subscribers may choose to download individual articles, or full issues, which are also available as PDFs. Users with a tablet or e-reader can subscribe to the JCSM Kindle edition or get the complete JCSM experience with the JCSM Enhanced Edition.

Deadline to apply for the 2012 Mini-Fellowship for International Scholars is Oct. 24

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

This four-week program provides practical training in clinical sleep medicine to international physicians from underdeveloped countries so they may develop or improve sleep health care in their home countries. Up to ten candidates will be selected for participation in the 2012 program. Participants must be certified physicians currently living outside the United States and Canada. The deadline to apply is October 24, 2011.

JCSM receives complete website overhaul, new digital platform availability

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A new website for the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, the official peer-reviewed publication of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, was launched Friday alongside the release of the journal’s October 15th issue. In addition to its attractive, streamlined design, the new website gives readers access to all journal content, readable on any browser or internet-ready device in an HTML-based format. Subscribers can also download individual articles or entire issues as PDFs. With the complete website overhaul comes several alternative ways to access JCSM.

NCI updates ASA24 online dietary assessment tool

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has made available an updated version of the Automated Self-Administered 24-Hour Recall (ASA24), an online dietary assessment tool. It may be of particular interest to sleep and circadian clinical researchers studying the relationship of sleep deficiency to metabolic disorders, appetite regulation and obesity. ASA24T is available to researchers free of charge. Note that using the tool requires "registering" studies to enable Web access.

AASM acknowledges October contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

This convenient online program provides sleep centers, educational programs and research labs with the opportunity to compare the scoring ability of their staff and students with the AASM Gold Standard Scorer. For the October ISR Testing Program, the AASM gratefully acknowledges Nihon Kohden America for contributing software, The DuPage Medical Group Sleep Disorders Center for providing sleep records, and Dr. Michelle Cao for serving as the second gold standard. Their participation in the AASM’s effort to provide a national standard for sleep scoring is greatly appreciated.

NIH notice summarizes operations under Continuing Resolution funding

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Enacted on October 4, 2011, this CR will fund government operations through November 18 at the FY 2011 level minus 1.5 percent. “Until FY 2012 appropriations are enacted, NIH will issue non-competing research grant awards at a level below that indicated on the most recent Notice of Award (generally up to 90% of the previously committed level),” the NIH statement reads. “Upward adjustments to awarded levels will be considered after our FY 2012 appropriations are enacted.”

Final deadline for ASMF grant applications is Monday, Oct. 17

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Candidates have less than a week to complete the application process for American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) grant funding. Applications are due on Monday, Oct. 17, 2011 for the Physician Scientist Training Award and the ABSM Junior Faculty Research Award.

Health care reform overview: Improving quality/health system performance, prevention/wellness

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed into law comprehensive health care reform, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). Part five of the AASM's health reform overview series focuses on Improving Quality/Health System Performance and Prevention/Wellness.

MEDPAC approves $220 Billion proposal to overhaul sustainable growth rate formula

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC) voted 15-2 to approve its $220 billion plan to replace the sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula, which sets Medicare physician payment rates. Since 2002, Congress annually has passed a series of short-term bills to block scheduled cuts to Medicare reimbursement rates under the SGR. The most recent fix will expire on January 1, 2012, at which point physicians face a 29.4% payment rate cut.The MedPAC recommendations include updating hospital payments by 1% in 2012 and altering home health care payments in 2013. Further recommendations involve changing reimbursements for some categories of durable medical equipment and repealing bonus payments for quality improvements in Medicare Advantage.

IOM recommendations highlight cost over coverage

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

An Institute of Medicine (IOM) committee emphasized that affordability should be Health and Human Services' (HHS') main priority in its recommendations to the agency on how the basic coverage standards for the state-based health insurance exchanges should be established. Under the federal health reform law, states by January 2014 must create insurance exchanges that provide coverage options for individuals and small businesses. States can choose to administer their own exchanges, for which they must have some infrastructure in place by January 2013, or ask the federal government to run the exchanges for them.

OIG publishes 2012 Work Plan

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Oct 5 the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) announced the publication of the Fiscal Year 2012 HHS OIG Work Plan. The work plan, which can be downloaded for review in its entirety on the OIG website, outlines the items to be addressed by the OIG in the next fiscal year. The 2011 OIG Work Plan highlighted a number of sleep-related projects for the OIG and sleep continues to be an important topic in the 2012 Work Plan.

The AASM recognizes its top member recruiters

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the AASM's top Member-Get-A-Member Campaign recruiters for the month of August. For each new member recruited, these individuals will receive a $15 Recognition of Excellence Money (REM) Voucher that can be used toward AASM resources including product purchases, course registration and more. September top recruiters include:

September Top Recruiters:

J Brian Allman, DDS, Diplomate, ABDSM - 2 New Members
B Kent Smith, DDS - 2 New Members
11 Member Recruiters - 1 New Member

New coding supplement to the ICSD-2 is now available

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A new pocket-sized supplement to the AASM’s International Classification of Sleep Disorders—Second Edition (ICSD-2) is now available through the AASM. The Coding Supplement provides facilities with a user-friendly crosswalk between the diagnoses in the ICSD-2 and the billing codes found in the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modifications (ICD-9-CM). Physicians and coding staff will find this resource to be indispensable as a quick reference when billing sleep medicine services.

Limited seats remaining for live Board Review Practice Exam course

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Individuals preparing to take the November 10, 2011 American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) sleep medicine certification exam have limited time to register for one of the remaining seats in the AASM’s final live Board Review Practice Exam course which will be held on Monday, October 31, 2011 at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a Chicago suburb).The October 28, 2011, October 29, 2011 and October 30, 2011 dates are SOLD OUT and limited seats remain in the October 31 course; register quickly to ensure that your space is reserved.

The sleep schedules of children and teens may affect their weight

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the Oct. 1 issue of SLEEP suggests that children and teens who keep an “early to bed and early to rise” schedule may be slimmer and more physically active than their night-owl peers. A WebMD article noted that previous studies of sleep and weight may have “missed the mark” by focusing on sleep duration while ignoring sleep schedules. An article in the Herald Sun reports that the results seem to contradict the idea that a later sleep pattern is healthy for teens.

CDC study links insufficient sleep to health-risk behaviors among teens

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study by researchers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that almost 70 percent of high school students reported getting less than eight hours of sleep on an average school night. The study also found that insufficient sleep was associated with higher odds of many health-risk behaviors such as current use of cigarettes, marijuana and alcohol, as well as current sexual activity and having seriously considered attempting suicide.

NIH announces psychosocial stress and behavior grant

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) issued by the NIH Basic Behavioral and Social Sciences Opportunity Network (OppNet) solicits Research Project grant (R01) applications for Mechanistic Pathways Linking Psychosocial Stress and Behavior (RFA-HL-12-037). This FOA will facilitate investigation of multiple and potentially bidirectional pathways underlying the behavioral, environmental, and psychosocial link(s) between psychosocial stressors and behaviors that may ultimately impact biological function, health and disease. The letter of intent due date is Nov. 19, 2011, and the application due date is Dec. 19, 2011.

Health care reform overview: cost containment

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed into law comprehensive health care reform, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). Part four of the AASM's health reform overview series focuses on Cost Containment.

HypnoGram: The Scoring Manual

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The weather is cooling, the nights are longer and the leaves are changing. So what is changing at the AASM? We are working on a process to update/revise the scoring manual. I received the draft version of the updated respiratory rules this week from the “SAD” taskforce. This now is headed to the board of directors for their perusal and input. This has prompted us to think about how we will update the scoring manual going forward...

HHS invites abstracts for 2012 National Health Promotion Summit

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) invites abstracts on innovative disease prevention and health promotion programs for presentation at the 2012 National Health Promotion Summit. The summit will take place April 10-11, 2012, in Washington, DC. The goals of the summit are to promote the development of disease prevention and health promotion policies that align with national prevention initiatives; encourage stakeholders at every level to collaborate on reaching national health goals; and integrate health policies across all sectors.

Tribute by Dr. William Dement remembers the life of Sen. Mark Hatfield

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Oct. 1 issue of the journal SLEEP contains an obituary written by Dr. William Dement in remembrance of Sen. Mark Hatfield, who died Sunday, Aug. 7, 2011, in Portland, Ore, at the age of 89 years. Hatfield served in the U.S. Senate from 1967 to 1997 and was a longtime advocate for the sleep field.

Earn CME credit online: October issue of SLEEP

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Oct. 1 issue of the journal SLEEP is available online, and AASM members have access to the full text of each article when you log in on the website. You also can earn continuing medical education (CME) credits online by reading designated articles such as “The association between short sleep duration and weight gain is dependent on disinhibited eating behavior in adults” and “Sleep duration or bedtime? Exploring the relationship between sleep habits and weight status and activity patterns.”

October 2011 product SALE: Save over 30% on personalized patient education brochures

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

During the month of October 2011, AASM individual and center members have the opportunity to save $20 on each pack of 100 personalized patient education brochures ordered from the AASM (a savings of more than 30 percent!). An exclusive benefit of membership, ordering personalized brochures allows you to have your contact information professionally printed on the back of any of the AASM’s more than 25 patient education brochures.

ABSM announces that 1,250 RPSGTs have applied for RST equivalency

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week the American Board of Sleep Medicine announced that 1,250 Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (RPSGTs) have applied for equivalency status to obtain certification from the ABSM as a Registered Sleep Technologist (RST). All practicing sleep technologists who have passed the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT) examination prior to Dec. 31, 2011, and are RPSGTs in good standing, are eligible to apply to the ABSM for RST equivalency status.

Limited time remaining to register for two 1-day workshops: Portable Monitoring and CPAP Adherence

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM has scheduled two small-group, full-day workshops at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago) for sleep medicine professionals interested in learning more about the topics of portable monitoring and CPAP adherence. Registration for these workshops will end on Wednesday, October 12, 2011; onsite registration cannot be accepted, so register today. Individuals who wish to attend both workshops will save more than 25% when you register for both meetings.

AASM accepting applications for AASM DME supplier accreditation

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM continues to accept applications for AASM Accreditation of Non-Medicare Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Suppliers. In December 2010, Somnicare in Overland Park, Kan., became the first supplier to earn AASM accreditation as a non-Medicare DME supplier. In 2011, this distinction also has been earned by the Minnesota Lung Center clinics and by Georgetown Durable Medical Equipment, LP in Georgetown, Texas. Facilities interested in earning AASM DME supplier accreditation can visit the AASM website to view and download the standards and application for this new program.

Submit your electronic prescribing incentive program hardship exemption request by Nov. 1

Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In a previous announcement about eRx hardship exemptions, the AASM reported that the Sept. 6 Federal Register included a final rule describing changes to the eRx Incentive Program. Beginning in 2012, providers who do not successfully prescribe electronically per Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) requirements will receive a penalty of -1 percent of allowable changes. The final rule outlined six exemption categories for providers who are unable to successfully participate in the eRx program due to hardship. The request submission deadline is Nov. 1.

Early to bed and early to rise – study suggests it’s keeping kids leaner

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the Oct. 1 issue of the journal SLEEP recorded the bedtimes and wake times of 2,200 Australian participants, ages 9 to 16, and compared their weights and uses of free time over four days. Children who went to bed late and got up late were 1.5 times more likely to become obese than those who went to bed early and got up early. Furthermore, late-nighters were almost twice as likely to be physically inactive and 2.9 times more likely to sit in front of the TV and computer or play video games for more hours than guidelines recommend.

Renew your membership online for 2012

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

You can now renew your AASM 2012 membership online! Renew today to continue receiving the journal SLEEP and Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine online, coding and reimbursement support, national and local representation, discounts on professional resources, education and networking opportunities and much more!

SLEEP 2012 call for abstracts and session proposals is now available

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2012 will be held June 9-13, 2012, at the Hynes Convention Center in Boston, Mass. As part of the Call for Abstracts and Session Proposals, the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS) Program Committee is announcing several new session formats for SLEEP 2012 including Bench to Bedside Integrated Sessions, Business-related Clinical Workshops and Morning Report Sessions.

Sleep association launches website offering free resources to educators

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

To help teachers communicate the principles of good sleep habits to their students, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine has launched a new website that offers free lesson plans and other, age-appropriate resources for instructors in kindergarten through high school. Additional materials on the website include activities, presentations and assessment tools.

Final Rule for Medicaid Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC) program released

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Medicaid Recovery Audit Contractor (RAC) program is projected by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to save $2.1 billion over the next five years by detecting and correcting improper payments by reviewing claims after the payments have been made. The program is based on the existing Medicare Recovery Audit program and will be largely self-funded. The final rule for the Medicaid RAC program goes into effect on January 1, 2012.

Health care reform overview: Insurance Exchanges and Private Insurance

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed into law comprehensive health care reform, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). In part three of the AASM's health reform overview series, AASM Government Relations experts provide a synopsis of the creation of Health Insurance Exchanges and the changes to private insurance.

MEDPAC releases proposed offset list for SGR overhaul

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Medicare Payment Advisory Commission on Monday released a draft list of offsets for its $200 billion plan to replace the sustainable growth rate formula, which sets Medicare physician payment rates. Since 2002, Congress annually has passed a series of short-term bills to block scheduled cuts to Medicare reimbursement rates under the SGR. The most recent "doc-fix" bill, enacted in December 2010, is scheduled to expire on Jan. 1, 2012, at which point physicians face a 29.4% payment rate cut. MedPAC Chair Glenn Hackbarth last week announced that the advisory panel will vote on a proposal to replace the SGR at its meeting next month.

Debt Reduction: Obama releases plan calling for more than $300B in cuts to Medicare, Medicaid

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

President Obama released a proposal this week to reduce the federal deficit by $3 trillion over the next 10 years, in part by making cuts to Medicare and Medicaid. The plan was developed to provide guidance to the newly created debt panel, which is charged with finding $1.5 trillion in savings by the end of November.

Final Days to register for the AASM's A-STEP Introductory Course

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Ensure that new technicians at your facility receive the education that they need to quickly and successfully begin a career in the profession of sleep technology by registering them for the AASM’s Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program (A-STEP) Introductory Course. The 80-hour comprehensive program will be held Oct. 3–14, 2011, at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). This course will be limited to 20 participants and the last day to register is Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2011.

AASM congratulates first recipients of OCST and DME accreditation

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine congratulates Sleep HealthCenters National Service Group in Bedford, Mass., which recently became the first sleep program to earn out of center sleep testing (OCST) accreditation from the AASM. In December 2010, Somnicare in Overland Park, Kan., became the first supplier to earn AASM accreditation as a non-Medicare DME supplier. In 2011, this distinction also has been earned by the Minnesota Lung Center clinics and by Georgetown Durable Medical Equipment, LP in Georgetown, Texas.

The AASM established these voluntary programs, along with its accreditation program for sleep disorders centers, to ensure that patients with sleep disorders receive the highest quality of medical care. Learn more about the AASM’s accreditation programs on the AASM website.

Grant reminder: Education Research in Sleep Health and Sleep-Circadian Biology

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The next letter of intent due date is Jan. 2, 2012, for the Education Research in Sleep Health and Sleep-Circadian Biology grant (PAR-11-098) from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD).

Proposal for integrated delivery model for sleep medicine submitted to CMS

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Board of Directors has submitted a final draft proposal for an integrated delivery model for sleep medicine to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). The proposal is the result of months of discussion about the future role of the sleep specialist in patient care. Members are encouraged to download and review the draft proposal.

NIH offers grants related to healthy habits in children and teens

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) issued funding opportunity announcements for three grants under the title of, “Healthy Habits: Timing for Developing Sustainable Healthy Behaviors in Children and Adolescents.” Developing healthy sleep patterns is one of the positive health behaviors that may be targeted by applications for these three grants: R01 research project grant (PA-11-327), R03 small grant program (PA-11-328) and R21 exploratory/developmental research grant award (PA-11-329). Standard application due dates apply.

NHLBI study identifies blood pressure-influencing genes

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Researchers have identified 29 genetic variations across 28 regions of the human genome that control blood pressure. Ten of the variations were found in unexpected locations, and provide new clues to how blood pressure is regulated. The findings may help predict the genetic risk of cardiovascular disease. Subjects with multiple variants had an increased risk of hypertension complications such as increased thickness of heart chamber, heart failure, stroke and coronary artery disease.

Summary of first Super Committee debt panel hearing

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The first super committee debt panel public hearing was held on Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2011. During the hearing, Congressional Budget Office Director Douglas Elmendorf offered testimony about the potential consequences of the rising cost of health care and the aging baby boomer population. He warned that federal spending would surpass revenue collected if current policies remain in place. The Congressional Budget Office Director suggested changes in spending, tax policies or both would be required to put the federal budget on a sustainable path.

HypnoGram: Public Education

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

I read with interest the recent editorial about Dr. William Dement in the journal SLEEP. As everyone in the sleep field knows, Dr. Dement is a true champion of the field and an advocate for public education. We should all strive to do the same – promote good sleep habits, discuss the importance of sleep disorders and not be ashamed or reluctant to tell people what our profession is or interests are because it is not “sexy” or “flashy.” I do not need to regale this audience with the statistics about how sleep deprivation impacts our economy, personal lives or health. Every one of us should be on our soapbox telling everyone we know about the importance of sleep.

ASMF grant applications are due Oct. 17

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation is pleased to offer its fifth year of grant funding for the Physician Scientist Training Award (PSTA). Through this award, the ASMF supports research training for physicians who wish to pursue a career as a physician scientist in sleep medicine. For a fourth year, the ASMF also is requesting applications for the ABSM Junior Faculty Research Award, which was established with an endowment of $2 million from the American Board of Sleep Medicine. This award provides funding to assist new faculty in the development of a career in academic sleep medicine. Candidates must complete the application process before Monday, Oct. 17, 2011.

AASM accepting applications for the 2012 Young Investigator Research Forum

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The 2012 AASM Young Investigator Research Forum will provide the opportunity for collegial interaction with established senior faculty members across the broad spectrum of clinical sleep research, as well as NIH scientific and program officers. There is a projected future shortage of clinical sleep researchers, and research funding is difficult to obtain. This retreat will provide guidance, tactics and strategies to help improve the chances of achieving a successful career in clinical sleep research. Please visit the AASM website to download the application for the 2012 Young Investigator Research Forum. The application process must be completed by Friday, Dec. 2, 2011.

CMS switches to postcard mailing to announce open participation enrollment period

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has directed contractors to use postcards announcing the open participation enrollment period this year in place of the CD packets. Previously, the CD packets included an electronic copy of the Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS). Due to the frequency of last-minute changes to the MPFS in recent years, CMS has directed contractors not to distribute electronic copies. Instead, contractors will keep updated copies of the MPFS and enrollment information on their websites, which will be listed on the postcard. Participating health-care professionals who do not wish to change their participation status will not be required to take any action during the open enrollment period. Postcard announcements will be mailed in early November.

ABSM offering limited-time awarding of the new RST certificate to RPSGTs

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The new American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM) Sleep Technologist Registry Examination will be offered for the first time Nov. 11, 2011. All practicing sleep technologists who have passed the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT) examination prior to Dec. 31, 2011 - and are a Registered Polysomnographic Technologist (RPSGT) in good standing - are eligible to apply for equivalency status and receive the Registered Sleep Technologist (RST) certification by the ABSM. Get complete details on the ABSM website.

SLEEP 2011 scientific posters available online until Nov. 30

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

View and discuss nearly 250 of the top scientific abstracts presented as posters at SLEEP 2011, the 25th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), through the SLEEP 2011 Online Poster Viewing Website. Each poster on this site is viewable in PDF format, and a comments area allows for interactive discussion of the science presented at the meeting. Access to the online posters is FREE for AASM and Sleep Research Society (SRS) members who attended SLEEP 2011.

Last chance to register for Pharmacology and Sleep Medicine course

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Registration for the AASM's Pharmacology and Sleep Medicine course will end Wednesday, Sept. 28, 2011. Individuals interested in attending this course, to be held at the AASM National Office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago), on Oct. 1-2, 2011, must do so on or before this date; on-site registration will not be accepted. The course is an intensive review of current and upcoming drug treatments for the full spectrum of sleep disorders including insomnia, disorders of excessive sleepiness, parasomnias, sleep-related breathing disorders and circadian rhythm disorders. For more information visit the Sleep Education Series page on the AASM website.

Complete the SLEEP 2011 online evaluation by Oct. 3 to claim your credits

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2011 attendees who registered for continuing medical education (CME) credits for physicians must go to www.sleepmeeting.org/credits and complete an online evaluation form on or before Oct. 3, 2011, at 4 p.m. CDT. Download the CME Reference Form for complete details, including a full listing of eligible SLEEP 2011 sessions. Attendees who registered for AANP CE contact hours for nurse practitioners or a letter of attendance also must complete the online evaluation by the Oct. 3 deadline. Contact the AASM at 630-737-9700 if you have any questions.

Health care reform overview: premium subsidies to employers, reinsurance and tax changes

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed into law comprehensive health care reform, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). Although the constitutionality of the law is still being challenged in the courts, it is important for members to be aware of how the law may affect your practice. Over the next several weeks, the AASM Weekly Update is including a synopsis of certain provisions in the bill. This week’s edition will focus on premium subsidies to employers, reinsurance program and tax changes related to health insurance.

Sleep medicine specialty code delayed until April 2012

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In January, the AASM announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) approved the establishment of a physician specialty code for sleep medicine. The original approval letter from CMS indicated that the code would be established after October 2011. In an email received Thursday September 8, staff from the CMS Provider Enrollment Operations Group notified the AASM that the establishment of the specialty code has been delayed. CMS staff cited system implementation issues, which will prevent the code from being established until April 2012. The AASM will continue to keep members updated regarding this important issue via the Weekly Update. Once the specialty code has been established, members will be provided information about how to change their specialty information with CMS.

Los Angeles Times, New York Post report on economic impact of insomnia

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Last week, multiple news outlets including the Los Angeles Times and the New York Post reported that insomnia is costing the U.S. $63.2 billion in lost productivity. The average worker lost 11.3 days, or $2,280 because of insomnia. Most of the lost productivity due to insomnia was traced to workers who report to work, but are unproductive rather than absences. The reports were based on findings published in the Sept. issue of SLEEP.

Reminder: NIH sleep and social environment grant application due Sept. 30

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The due date is approaching for Research Project Grant (R21) applications that propose to investigate the reciprocal interactions of the processes of sleep and circadian regulation and function with behavioral and social environmental processes. The grant (RFA-HD-12-204) offers the opportunity to link social environment factors that shape sleep behaviors with the direct neurobehavioral and circadian biology effects of sleep processes on individuals in the context of their social milieu.

Apply for Research Project Grant (R01) on decision making

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Basic Behavioral and Social Science Opportunity Network (OppNet) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) issued a funding opportunity announcement (RFA-MH-12-130) for research that increases the understanding of basic cognitive, affective, motivational and social processes that influence decision making. “Basic Research on Decision Making: Cognitive, Affective and Development Perspectives” encourages researchers to explore the interactions among the psychological, neurobiological and behavioral processes in decision making and the mediating or moderating influences of genetics, physiology, the social environment and culture. Applications are due Jan. 18, 2012.

Health care reform overview: the individual mandate, employer requirements and the expansion of public programs

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On March 23, 2010, President Obama signed into law comprehensive health care reform, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). Although the constitutionality of the law is still being challenged in the courts, it is important for members to be aware of how the law may affect your practice. Over the next several weeks, the AASM will provide a synopsis of certain provisions in the bill. This week will focus on the individual mandate, employer requirements, and expansion of program provisions in the law. Visit the AASM website to view part one of the health care reform synopsis.

Super committee debt panel holds first meeting

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The bipartisan, bicameral debt panel created by the recent budget agreement will held its first meeting on Thursday, Sept. 8. The first public hearing will be Sept. 13. As part of the recent debt deal, the panel must develop and pass by the end of November at least $1.5 trillion in federal spending cuts over 10 years. Failure to do so would trigger a series of across-the-board cuts. Medicaid would be exempt from those cuts, and Medicare is protected from deep spending cuts. However, the deficit panel is not bound by those stipulations. View the full article on the AASM website for a list of deadlines for the panel.

AASM acknowledges September contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Each month a new set of 200 consecutive epochs from a sleep record is posted online for the AASM Inter-scorer Reliability Testing Program. This convenient online program provides sleep centers, educational programs and research labs with the opportunity to compare the scoring ability of their staff and students with the AASM Gold Standard Scorer. For the September ISR Testing Program, the AASM gratefully acknowledges Nihon Kohden America for contributing software, The Institute of Sleep Medicine - DuPage Medical Group for providing sleep records, and Dr. Shalini Manchanda for serving as the second gold standard. Their participation in the AASM’s effort to provide a national standard for sleep scoring is greatly appreciated.

Deadlines are approaching for several AASM courses

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Deadlines are approaching for several upcoming AASM Sleep Education Series courses held at the AASM national office in Darien, IL (a suburb of Chicago). On Friday, Sept. 16, the AASM will host a Compliance Program Development Workshop to provide physicians and coding staff with information to perform a self audit and develop a compliance program. The last day to register for this course is Wednesday, Sept. 14. In October, the AASM will host two one-day Workshops in Sleep Medicine. The workshop on Saturday, Oct. 15, will cover topics related to Portable Monitoring ranging from patient identification to scoring of portable studies. On Sunday, Oct. 16, a CPAP Adherence workshop will explore aspects of non-adherence and offer suggestions for improving compliance. The advanced registration deadline for both workshops is Friday, Sept. 16.

Last chance to register for popular Interpreting Sleep Studies courses

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Registration for the AASM’s Interpreting Sleep Studies courses will end Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011. Individuals interested in attending one of these courses, to be held at the AASM National Office in Darien, IL (a suburb of Chicago), on the Sept. 23-24 or Sept. 25-26 must register on or before this date; on-site registration will not be accepted. Plan on attending this course if you are looking to review topics related to the interpretation of sleep studies including clinical signs, indications for testing, interpretation of tests and development of treatment plans. The case-based course will provide individuals preparing for the 2011 sleep medicine board exam with an excellent review of sleep study interpretation.

JCSM will be an online-only publication in 2012

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine (JCSM), the official peer-reviewed publication of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), is a free benefit of AASM membership and a valuable educational tool for individuals interested in the clinical practice of sleep medicine. The JCSM Editorial Board remains committed to publishing relevant science for its readers, but must also address increasing printing and postage costs. Starting with the 2012 volume year, JCSM will transition to an online-only resource. AASM members will enjoy full access to the current online issue and journal archives and may choose to purchase Kindle versions or printed copies of the journal

CMS publishes final rule on Electronic Prescribing (eRx) Incentive Program

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In the Sept. 6 Federal Register, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CSM) published a final rule describing changes to the eRx Incentive Program. Beginning in 2012, providers who do not successfully prescribe electronically per CMS requirements will receive a penalty, also known as a payment adjustment, of -1 percent of allowable charges. This adjustment is projected to increase to -1.5 percent in 2013 and -2 percent in 2014.

Providers who believe they cannot meet the requirements of the eRx incentive program due to hardship can apply for exemption from the eRx program. Major changes to the eRx program, as outlined in the final rule, include the addition of new hardship exemption categories as well as an extension of the deadline to submit a hardship exemption request. The exemption deadline is now Nov. 1, 2011.

The AASM Recognizes Its Top Member Recruiters

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the AASM’s top Member-Get-A-Member Campaign recruiters for the month of August. These individuals are contributing to the growth of the organization by reaching out to their professional colleagues and encouraging them to join the AASM. For each new member recruited, these individuals will receive a $15 Recognition of Excellence Money (REM) Voucher that can be used toward AASM resources including product purchases, course registrations and more.

HypnoGram: The APSS

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The APSS is a partnership between the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society. It was formed in 2002 and has its own set of bylaws. What does the APSS do? It has two main functions: The APSS administers our annual scientific meeting, which is now known as the SLEEP Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, and it produces the journal SLEEP.

About half of U.S. adults predicted to be obese by 2030

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A new study in The Lancet suggests that without intervention, U.S. obesity rates will increase dramatically in the coming decades. By 2030, as many as 164 million Americans could be obese. In that time, the obesity rate for men is projected to rise from 32 percent to 50 percent and from 35 percent to 45-52 percent for women. Health care costs related to conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and cancer would also rise.

NHLBI announces diversity funding opportunity for sleep disorders researchers

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) issued a funding opportunity announcement (RFA-HL-12-032) for Training Program for Institutions That Promote Diversity. This Institutional National Research Service Award (T32) supports students and postdoctoral trainees at non-research intensive institutions focused on serving diverse communities that are not well represented in NIH-funded research. The application due date is Oct. 26, 2011.

NIH-Oxford researchers map gene expression in mouse brain

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the Aug. 25 issue of the journal Neuron maps the activity of genes in the cerebral cortex of mice. Researchers from the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI), part of the National Institutes of Health and from Oxford University created an atlas of the more than 11,000 genes in the six layers of brain cells that make up the cerebral cortex. The atlas of gene activity in mouse brain is available in an interactive format online.

NIH partners with U.S. Department of Defense for database on traumatic brain injuries

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Department of Defense announced the Federal Interagency Traumatic Brain Injury Research (FITBIR) database earlier this week. The database is intended to accelerate research on brain injury treatment and diagnosis, and will house new data, link to current databases and allow comparison of results across studies.

NIH releases 2011-2012 Wednesday Afternoon Lecture Series schedule

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A full roster of speakers for the 2011-2012 Wednesday Afternoon Lecture Series was made available by the NIH. The first presentation is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2011 at 3 p.m. EDT, and will feature Dr. Carlos Bustamante, a Professor of Physics, Chemistry and Molecular and Cell Biology at the University of California, Berkeley. Each following week at 3 p.m., EST, leading biomedical investigators will present their latest findings in a live webcast. Learn more about the Wednesday Afternoon Lecture Series on the NIH website.

CMS provides clarification in response to AASM concerns regarding CBRs

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In June, the AASM informed members of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) providing Comparative Billing Reports (CBR) nationally to the highest frequency billers of sleep medicine services to educate providers regarding proper billing practices. Later, the AASM sent a letter to CMS outlining several concerns about how the CBR analysis was performed and requesting a new CBR analysis be performed two years following the establishment of the sleep medicine designation by CMS.

This week, the AASM received a response from CMS that provides additional information and clarification regarding provider billing, peer groupings, and future design and methodology development based on the sleep medicine specialty designation. It is worthwhile to note the One PI Program reported that 90 percent of providers in the study billed 192 or less services.

Advanced registration deadline for AASM Pharmacology Course is approaching

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On October 1–2, 2011, the AASM will host a course at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a Chicago suburb) entitled Pharmacology and Sleep Medicine. Pharmacology has been designated as a medical content category for the 2011 American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) sleep medicine certification exam; individuals preparing to take this exam can register for this course to receive a review of topics which may be covered on this exam. The advanced registration deadline for the Pharmacology and Sleep Medicine course is Friday, September 2, 2011; register before this date to save on registration fees.

Two full-day workshops in sleep medicine scheduled: Portable Monitoring and CPAP Adherence

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM has scheduled two small-group, full-day workshops at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). On Saturday, October 15, 2011, faculty, led by course chair Richard Berry, MD, will discuss issues related to portable monitoring including a review of current AASM guidelines, patient selection and scoring, as well as a discussion about portable monitoring from the viewpoint of different healthcare systems. Following this workshop on Sunday, October 16, 2011, Shalini Paruthi, MD and faculty will take an in-depth look at the topic of CPAP adherence for the treatment of OSA. Space for each workshop is limited. Individuals who wish to attend both workshops will save more than 25% when you register for both meetings on or before the September 16, 2011 advanced registration deadline.

Aging eyes linked to sleepless nights, new study shows

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A natural yellowing of the eye lens that absorbs blue light has been linked to sleep disorders in a group of test volunteers, according to a study in the Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. As this type of lens discoloration worsened with age, so did the risk of insomnia.

Insomnia costing U.S. workforce $63.2 billion a year in lost productivity, study shows

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Insomnia is costing the average U.S. worker 11.3 days, or $2,280 in lost productivity every year, according to a study in the September 1 issue of the journal SLEEP. As a nation, the total cost is 252.7 days and $63.2 billion.

ASMF announces the call for proposals for the 2012 grant cycle

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The ASMF is pleased to offer its fifth year of grant funding for the Physician Scientist Training Award (PSTA). For a fourth year, the ASMF also is requesting applications for the ABSM Junior Faculty Research Award, which was established with an endowment of $2 million from the American Board of Sleep Medicine. Candidates must complete the application process before Monday, Oct. 17, 2011, to be considered.

OIG Publishes IDTF compliance reports for Miami and Los Angeles

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On August 30, the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) published two compliance reports for Independent Diagnostic Testing Facilities (IDTFs). The reports describe unannounced site visits conducted at all fixed location IDTFs in both the Miami and Los Angeles areas. As a result of the unannounced visits conducted in Miami and Los Angeles, the OIG has recommended that more unannounced visits be conducted. Both compliance reports include information regarding the IDTF standards and can serve as helpful tools for IDTFs looking to maintain compliance with CMS requirements.

Earn CME credit online: September issue of SLEEP

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The September issue of the journal SLEEP is available online, and AASM members have access to the full text of each article when you log in on the website.

Studies designated for CME credit in the September issue are:

Sleeping Problems and Suicide in 75,000 Norwegian Adults: A 20 Year Follow-up of the HUNT I Study
Longitudinal Association between Short Sleep, Body Weight, and Emotional and Learning Problems in Hispanic and Caucasian Children

New Coding Supplement to the ICSD-2 is now available

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Coding Supplement provides facilities with a user-friendly crosswalk between the diagnoses in the ICSD-2 and the billing codes found in the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modifications (ICD-9-CM). Physicians and coding staff will find this resource to be indispensable as a quick reference when billing sleep medicine services. For more information about this new product, and to order, visit the AASM Online Store.

New projections from CBO include steep Medicare cuts for physicians

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

According to a recent article from Kaiser Health News, new figures released by the Congressional Budget Office include the imposition of steep Medicare cuts for physicians. The CBO’s new baseline projections of the federal budget estimate that cumulative deficits will reach $3.5 trillion between 2012 and 2021 — a much shallower budget hole than the $6.7 trillion CBO projected in March.

HypnoGram: Sleep medicine certification

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The summer is drawing to a close with Labor Day in view and many schools back in session – and along with that all the traffic! The fall also brings the last chance for the “grandfathers and grandmothers” to sit for the American Board of Medical Specialties sleep medicine certification examination. I had the privilege to lecture at the second of three board review courses administered by the AASM in Denver a couple of weeks back. The room was packed as it will be for the next one scheduled for Reston, Va., in September.

Wall Street Journal examines sleep differences between men and women

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week, an article in the Wall Street Journal examined how recent research has shed light on gender differences in sleep. The article addresses differences between men and women in the length of their circadian period, sleep latency and sleep time, sleep quality, response to sleep deprivation, and insomnia complaints.

NHLBI Working Group focuses on coronary artery risk development

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) hosted a working group June 17, 2011, to discuss research areas that could be addressed by a possible continuation of the Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults (CARDIA) Study. One high priority recommended by the group is, “An assessment of sleep disordered breathing with a non-invasive home-based monitor and the administration of sleep questionnaires.”

NIH-commissioned study identifies gaps in NIH funding for black researchers

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

From 2000-2006, black applicants were 10 percentage points less likely than white applicants to be awarded research project grants from the National Institutes of Health after controlling for factors that influence the likelihood of a grant award, according to an NIH-commissioned study in the journal Science. In an accompanying commentary, NIH Director Francis Collins, MD, PhD, and Principal Deputy Director Lawrence Tabak, DDS, PhD, call the findings unacceptable and commit to immediate action by the NIH.

NIH announces new funding opportunities, including grants for behavioral and social sciences

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A research project (R01) grant (PAR-11-314) and an exploratory/developmental (R21) research grant award (PAR-11-315) for “Systems Science and Health in the Behavioral and Social Sciences” both include numerous topics related to sleep and sleep disorders as potential areas of interest. Other new funding opportunities recently announced by the National Institutes of Health include the 2012 NIH Director's Pioneer Award Program (RFA-RM-11-004) and the 2012 NIH Director's New Innovator Award Program (RFA-RM-11-005).

Success stories are featured on the ASMF website

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Visit the American Sleep Medicine Foundation website to read about how the ASMF is making a difference through research, education and humanitarian aid. The new “Success Stories” highlight individuals and organizations that have received an ASMF grant or award.

HHS tightens financial conflict of interest rules for researchers

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issued an updated Final Rule on conflict of interest, providing a framework for identifying, managing, and ultimately avoiding investigators’ financial conflicts of interest. Major changes to the regulations include the definition of significant financial interest (SFI), the extent of investigator disclosure, the information reported to the Public Health Service (PHS) awarding component, the information made accessible to the public, and investigator training.

CDC report analyzes prevalence of insufficient rest or sleep

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In the Aug. 19, 2011, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) Surveillance Summary, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided an analysis of data from the 2009 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Results show that in 2009, the median estimated overall prevalence of insufficient rest or sleep among adults aged ≥18 years was 39.3 percent, ranging from 34.3 percent in the Virgin Islands to 52.6 percent in West Virginia.

NIH funding: White House calls for all agencies to reduce their 2013 budget requests

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A recent memo to the heads of federal departments and agencies from Jacob J. Lew, director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, addressed 2013 budget requests. Lew stated that 2013 budget submissions to OMB should be at least five percent below 2011 enacted discretionary appropriation, unless an agency has been given explicit direction otherwise by OMB.

2012 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule: Submit comments to CMS by Tuesday, Aug. 30

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Tuesday, Aug. 9, the AASM sent a comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) outlining concerns regarding the 2012 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule. AASM members also are encouraged to provide CMS with their own comments on the 2012 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule. Comments to CMS are due by Aug. 30 using the contact information found on the first page of the Proposed Rule.

Medicare to include CPAP in second round of DME-POS competitive bidding program

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Friday, Aug. 19, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that it will expand the durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics and supplies (DMEPOS) competitive bidding program, which is used to set prices for DME. Among the product categories for Round Two are continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices and respiratory assist devices (RADs) and related supplies and accessories. Bidding for Round Two, which will expand the program from nine cities to 91 areas, will begin this fall.

AASM Acknowledges August Contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

For the August ISR Testing Program, the AASM gratefully acknowledges Nihon Kohden America for contributing software, The Institute of Sleep Medicine - DuPage Medical Group for providing sleep records, and Dr. Kannan Ramar for serving as the second gold standard. Their participation in the AASM’s effort to provide a national standard for sleep scoring is greatly appreciated.

Complete the AASM membership sections survey by Aug. 31

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week, the AASM Membership Sections Committee sent an email to all AASM members with a link to a brief, five-minute survey about your experience and involvement with the sections. Please provide your feedback by completing the survey by Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2011.

Advanced registration deadline for Interpreting Sleep Studies course is Friday, Aug. 26

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The advanced registration deadline for the upcoming Interpreting Sleep Studies course is Friday, Aug. 26. The course will be held at the AASM national office in Darien, IL (a suburb of Chicago), and attendees can choose from two sets of dates: Friday, Sept. 23 - Saturday, Sept. 24 or Sunday, Sept. 25 - Monday, Sept. 26.

Essential training for new sleep technicians to be offered through the AASM’s A-STEP Introductory Course

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Ensure that new sleep technicians at your facility receive the education that they need to quickly and successfully begin a career in the profession of sleep technology by registering them for the AASM’s Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program (A-STEP) Introductory Course. The 80-hour comprehensive program will be held Oct. 3–14, 2011, at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). This course will be limited to 20 participants in order to ensure that each individual receives personalized training and hands-on experience during exercises and sleep center observation.

Two additional dates opened for AASM Board Review Practice Exam courses

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In preparation for the Nov. 10, 2011, American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) sleep medicine certification exam, the AASM has developed a new full-day Board Review Practice Exam course to be held at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a Chicago suburb). The Oct. 29, 2011, and Oct. 30, 2011, courses are now SOLD OUT. In response to this high demand, the AASM has opened two additional course dates on Friday, Oct. 28, 2011, and Monday, Oct. 31, 2011.

Submit nominations for AASM Board of Directors by Aug. 26

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Each year we elect new leaders to guide the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and represent the interests and needs of our members. The AASM invites members to nominate candidates (self-nominations welcome) for service as an at-large member of the Board of Directors. Please submit the required materials by August 26, 2011.

Final days for August SALE on personalized patient education brochure orders

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

During the month of August 2011, AASM individual and center members have the opportunity to save $20 on each pack of 100 personalized patient education brochures ordered from the AASM - a savings of more than 30 percent! An exclusive benefit of membership, ordering personalized brochures allows you to have your contact information professionally printed on the back of any of the AASM’s more than 25 patient education brochures.

NPR discusses sleep apnea recurrence after CPAP withdrawal

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Monday, Aug. 15, National Public Radio’s “All Things Considered” and NPR’s health blog “Shots” focused on the importance of the consistent use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy for obstructive sleep apnea. The story was sparked by a study published online ahead of print in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine. AASM president Dr. Nancy Collop told NPR that the study is a reminder that CPAP needs to be used every night. “CPAP is a treatment, not a cure,” she said.

NHLBI Working Group examines best practices of Data Coordinating Centers

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) hosted the Data Coordinating Centers’ Best Practices Working Group May 24-25, 2011. A Data Coordinating Centers’ Best Practices executive summary is available on the NHLBI website.

NHLBI announces funding for mentored career award and resource access to genome centers

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) issued a funding opportunity announcement (RFA-HL-12-029) for a Mentored Career Award for Faculty at Institutions that Promote Diversity, and an FOA (PAR-11-307) for a Resource Access Award (X01) for the Discovery of Genetic Basis of Mendelian or Monogenic Heart, Lung, and Blood Disorders.

Earn CME credit online: August issue of JCSM

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The August 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine is now available online, and AASM members have access to the full text of each article when you log in on the website. You also can earn continuing medical education (CME) credits online by reading designated articles and taking the online CME exams within one year of the date of publication.

FDA releases medical device draft guidance for clinical studies and premarket review

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Aug. 15, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced that it is seeking comment for two sets of proposed guidelines: the draft guidance for Design Considerations for Pivotal Clinical Investigations for Medical Devices, and the draft guidance for Factors to Consider when Making Benefit-Risk Determinations in Medical Device Premarket Review. Submit comments by Nov. 14, 2011.

AHRQ releases comparative effectiveness review for obstructive sleep apnea

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Last week the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality released “Comparative Effectiveness Review of the Diagnosis and Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Adults,” the latest report from AHRQ's Effective Health Care Program. The systematic review included 234 clinical studies published through September 2010.

Medicare Administrative Contractors to begin requesting revalidation

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Due to new risk screening criteria required by the Affordable Care Act, providers/suppliers who enrolled in the Medicare program prior to March 25, 2011, will be required to revalidate their Medicare enrollment. Medicare has asked that providers/suppliers do not revalidate until asked to do so by their MAC. Providers/suppliers who enrolled in Medicare after March 25, 2011, have already completed the risk screening process.

Register for the AASM Compliance Program Development Workshop

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Now more than ever, sleep medicine is on the radar of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Office of the Inspector General (OIG). The AASM strongly recommends that all sleep facilities develop a compliance program, including regular file audits, to help ensure appropriate documentation and billing. AASM members and their coding and billing staff are encouraged to attend the upcoming Compliance Program Development Workshop on Friday, Sept. 16 at the AASM national office in Darien, IL.

Advanced registration for Intrepreting Sleep Studies course is Friday

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The advanced registration deadline is quickly approaching for an upcoming AASM Sleep Education Series Course held at the AASM national office in Darien, IL (a suburb of Chicago). Save money by registering for the Interpreting Sleep Studies course by Friday, Aug. 26.

AASM updates accreditation standards for sleep centers

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Standards for Accreditation of Sleep Disorders Centers have been revised and updated to reflect several changes as of August 2011. These changes are related to sleep technologist registry examinations that are accepted by the AASM, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certification, and inter-scorer reliability. The revised AASM Standards for Accreditation of Sleep Disorders Centers are available for download in the Accreditation section of this website.

Study in JAMA examines the link between sleep apnea and dementia

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Older women with sleep-disordered breathing had an increased risk of developing cognitive impairment, according to “Sleep-disordered breathing, hypoxia, and risk of mild cognitive impairment and dementia in older women,” which appears in the Aug. 10 issue of JAMA.

NHLBI Working Group explores alternative Institutional Review Board models

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) convened a Working Group (WG) of invited external experts in heart, lung and blood research and clinical research oversight, bioethics, health economics, regulatory matters and information technology for a meeting June 28-29, 2011. An IRB review process executive summary is available on the NHLBI website.

Advancing respiratory research: A new article by the NHLBI’s James Kiley, PhD

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

James P. Kiley, PhD, director of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) Division of Lung Diseases and former director (1995 - 2000) of the National Center on Sleep Disorders Research (NCSDR), focused on future opportunities and challenges in “Advancing respiratory research,” an article published in the August 2011 issue of CHEST. Kiley notes that sleep and circadian biology is one of the potential frontiers to advance progress in respiratory biology in health and disease.

Submit ideas for NIH Common Fund programs

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Common Fund supports exceptionally innovative programs that are inherently high-risk but have the potential for high-payoff by catalyzing research across all of NIH and in the biomedical research community. New ideas for Common Fund programs are identified annually by internal and external scientists and stakeholders, and NIH is asking for your input on these ideas to help them shape new programs for 2013. The feedback period is open until Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2011.

Sleep medicine pharmacology course is open for registration

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Clinicians and researchers interested in obtaining a comprehensive review of sleep medicine pharmacology can register to attend the AASM Sleep Education Series course, Pharmacology and Sleep Medicine, to be held Oct. 1–2, 2011, at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). Pharmacology has been designated as a medical content category for the November 2011 American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) sleep medicine certification exam; individuals preparing to take this exam can register for this course to receive an extensive review of topics that may be covered on this exam.

HHS webinar on healthcare-associated infections is Aug. 16

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The first webinar in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Healthy People webinar series will focus on healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Join the discussion on Aug. 16, 2011, from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. EDT.

New York enacts “authorization” for sleep technologists

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

New York Assembly Bill 354 (AB 354), which establishes “authorization” for sleep technologists, was signed into law by Governor Andrew Cuomo on Aug. 4, 2011. The bill requires an individual performing sleep procedures to obtain an authorization certificate issued by the State Education Department. The AASM has been working with the New York State Society of Sleep Medicine (NYSSSM) over the past 10 years to pass this licensure bill. Now that AB 354 has been enacted, the AASM will assist the NYSSSM on developing the regulatory language.

The Budget Control Act of 2011 and Medicare: Take a brief member survey

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Tuesday, Aug. 2, President Obama signed the fiscal year 2012 budget and deficit reduction agreement (S 365), ensuring that the U.S. will not default on its debts and ending months of contentious negotiations. Under the agreement, federal discretionary spending will be cut by a total of about $2.4 trillion over the next decade, and between now and Nov. 23, a super committee is responsible to find an additional $1.2 trillion in debt reduction over 10 years. If congress doesn't agree on the proposal by the super comittee, automatic cuts will include a 2 percent reduction in Medicare payments to providers. As the law is written, this cut will be on top of a planned 29.4 sustainable growth rate fee reduction schedule for January 2012. The AASM is concerned that physicians may stop accepting Medicare patients if cuts of this magnitude occur. We ask that you take a minute to complete a brief, three-question survey regarding how these cuts, if enacted, will impact your practice.

AASM submits comment to CMS regarding 2012 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Tuesday, Aug. 9, the AASM sent a comment letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) outlining concerns regarding the 2012 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule. The AASM comment letter focuses on the four issues included in the full article. Comments to CMS are due by Aug. 30 using the contact information found on the first page of the Proposed Rule.

AASM Nominating Committee: Submit Nominations by Aug. 17

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

ABSM Sleep Technologist Registry Exam applications are due Aug. 15

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The new American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM) Sleep Technologist Registry Examination will be offered for the first time Nov. 11, 2011. Applications for the exam must be received in the ABSM national office by midnight Monday, Aug. 15, 2011.

HypnoGram: AASM staff

Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

This week’s HypnoGram will focus on the AASM staff. I have been a member of the AASM since 1990 and have greatly enjoyed watching it grow. For those of you who have worked with the AASM staff, I am sure you will agree that they are great – always professional, courteous and helpful. The number of staff has grown commensurate with the society. The AASM has added several PhDs to assist with the development of practice parameters; MBAs to assist with accounting; as well as people with political and health economics experience to assist with legislative and coding issues.

Study examines the prevalence and risk patterns of insomnia symptoms

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Difficulty maintaining sleep is the most common insomnia symptom, according to a study in the Aug. 1 issue of SLEEP. The study involved an analysis of data from 6,791 adults who participated in the America Insomnia Survey (AIS), a cross-sectional telephone survey.

Twin study links sleep consolidation to language development in early childhood

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the Aug. 1 issue of SLEEP suggests that poor sleep consolidation during the first two years of life may be a risk factor for language learning. The longitudinal study involved 1,029 twins from the Quebec Newborn Twin Study.

NIA announces two R21 grants for translational research related to the elderly

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institute on Aging has issued funding opportunity announcements for two exploratory/developmental research (R21) grants for translational research related to age-related conditions and the elderly. The earliest submission date for both grants is Sept. 16, 2011. Standard application due dates apply.

NHLBI releases executive summary of Pediatric Sleep Disturbances workshop

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) posted an executive summary of a Sept. 9, 2010, workshop on Pediatric Sleep Disturbances and their Contribution to Developmental Pathophysiology of Cardiometabolic Risk.

CMS announces National Version 5010 Testing Week: Aug. 22-26

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

By Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, all HIPAA-covered entities are required to be compliant with Version 5010, the new version of the X12 standards for Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) transactions. CMS has designated the week of Aug. 22-26, 2011, as National Version 5010 Testing Week to assist in the transition and to encourage providers to perform external testing (Level II) with their Medicare Administrative Contractors (MACs).

AASM recognizes its top member recruiters for July

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the 16 AASM members who reached out to their professional network and recruited a colleague to become an AASM member in July. For each new member recruited, these individuals will receive a $15 Recognition of Excellence Money (REM) Voucher that can be used toward AASM resources including product purchases, course registrations and more.

Earn CME credit online: August issue of SLEEP

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The August issue of the journal SLEEP is available online, and AASM members have access to the full text of each article when you log in on the website. Studies designated for CME credit in the August issue are: "Nighttime insomnia symptoms and perceived health in America Insomnia Survey (AIS)" and "Pregnant women with gestational hypertension may have a high frequency of sleep disordered breathing."

Registration is open for new one-day workshop on developing a compliance program

Wed, 03 Aug 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM has developed a one-day Compliance Program Development Workshop, to be held Friday, Sept. 16, 2011, at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). The workshop will give attendees the guidance needed to perform an audit of their facility's billing practices and will provide tools on the development of a compliance program for their facility.

HypnoGram: My first board meeting as president

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Welcome back to my latest HypnoGram following a short hiatus while preparing for my first official AASM board of directors meeting as the president. We met in “the big apple,” which would have better been described as “the baked apple” or “a warm apple tart” as the temperatures were in the 100s! But don’t worry, the board was huddled up in an air-conditioned hotel meeting room for the weekend so we were not exposed to that dreadful heat!

Deadline extension and eligibility clarification for the Sleep Technologist Registry Exam

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The new American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM) Sleep Technologist Registry Examination will be offered for the first time Nov. 11, 2011. Individuals who are interested in taking this inaugural exam now have additional time to submit an exam application before the deadline, which has been extended to Monday, Aug. 15, 2011. In response to questions about the eligibility criteria outlined in the Candidate Handbook for the exam, the ABSM also offers the following clarification.

AASM provides additional analysis of the CMS 2012 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Last week the AASM announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) had published the 2012 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule in the Federal Register; please note that this is the draft rule and is not final. If implemented, changes outlined in the proposed rule will significantly affect sleep physicians.

Science Weekly podcast focuses on the science of sleep and circadian rhythms

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The science of sleep and circadian rhythms is the topic of this week’s Science Weekly podcast with Alok Jha, which is hosted on the website of The Guardian.

AHRQ reports that heart disease is the most costly medical condition in the U.S.

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A statistical brief issued this month by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) reports that heart disease and cancer ranked first and second as the most expensive medical conditions for both men and women in terms of overall health-care expenditures.

CDC analysis of state data shows that obesity rates remain high

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Last week the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that obesity has become a problem in every state; no state reported that less than 20 percent of adults were obese in 2010.

Study suggests that sedative hypnotic prescriptions may be overprescribed for insomnia

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the August issue of the American Journal of Public Health examined the “medicalization” of sleeplessness. Results suggest that sleeplessness complaints and insomnia diagnosesincreased over time; however, they were far outpaced by prescriptions forsedative hypnotics.

Aggressive behavior and bullying may be linked to sleep-disordered breathing in schoolchildren

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the August issue of Sleep Medicine found a potential link between sleep-disordered breathing and aggressive behavior and bullying in urban schoolchildren. Statistical analysis found that symptoms suggestive of sleep-disordered breathing were found more often in children with conduct problems, bullying, or discipline referrals.

NHLBI announces that it will no longer use the MERIT Award (R37) funding mechanism

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Recently the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute announced (NOT-HL-11-153) that it is no longer making new awards using the Method to Extend Research in Time (MERIT) Award (R37) funding mechanism.

HHS announces proposal to improve rules protecting human research subjects

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Last week the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services announced that the federal government is contemplating various ways of enhancing the regulations overseeing research on human subjects. The public comment period closes at 5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 26, 2011.

NICHD announces Pediatric Scientist Development Program (K12)

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) issued a funding opportunity announcement (RFA-HD-12-209) for the Pediatric Scientist Development Program (K12). The application due date is Nov. 22, 2011.

CDC releases infection prevention guide to promote safe outpatient care

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Recently the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced the release of its “Guide to Infection Prevention for Outpatient Settings: Minimum Expectations for Safe Care.” The guide is based on existing, evidence-based CDC guidelines that apply to a wide range of health-care facilities but are mostly used by hospitals.

Advanced registration deadline extended to Aug. 15 for Worldsleep 2011 in Kyoto, Japan

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Worldsleep 2011, the 6th Quadrennial Congress of the World Sleep Federation, will take place Oct. 16-20 at the Kyoto International Conference Center in Kyoto, Japan. The deadline for “early-bird” registration has been extended to Aug. 15, 2011.

AASM acknowledges July contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

For the July ISR Testing Program, the AASM gratefully acknowledges Nihon Kohden America for contributing software, Sleep HealthCenters for providing sleep records, and Dr. Michelle Cao for serving as the second gold standard.

AASM Interpreting Sleep Studies course to be offered twice in 2011

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Oct. 23–24, 2011, and Oct. 25–26, 2011, the AASM will host an Interpreting Sleep Studies course at the AASM national office in Darien, IL (a suburb of Chicago). This course, chaired by Robert Basner, MD, will cover a variety of topics related to the interpretation of sleep studies including clinical signs, indications for testing, interpretation of tests and development of treatment plans.

Final days to save 20% on many of the AASM’s most popular products

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Time is running out to take 20% off many of the AASM’s most popular products during our July sale on board review products. Sale items include the ICSD-2, Scoring Manual, Case Book, webinar archives and more.

Limited seats remain for the Oct. 30 Board Review Practice Exam course; Oct. 29 course is SOLD OUT

Wed, 27 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In preparation for the Nov. 10, 2011, sleep medicine board exam, the AASM has scheduled two live Board Review Practice Exam courses at the AASM national office in Darien, IL (a Chicago suburb). Each course is limited to 80 participants, and the Oct. 29 course is now SOLD OUT. Individuals interested in participating in this course are encouraged to register for the Oct. 30, 2011, course as soon as possible to reserve your space.

Washington Post reports on insurance coverage for the treatment of sleep disorders

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Last week an article by The Washington Post and Kaiser Health News reported on the growth of sleep medicine and the broad availability of insurance coverage for the treatment of sleep disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea. The article noted that patients with sleep disorders now have access to specialized care from doctors who are trained in sleep medicine and who practice at more than 2,250 AASM-accredited sleep centers.

Wall Street Journal examines new drugs in development for insomnia

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week an article in the Wall Street Journal examined efforts by pharmaceutical companies to develop new drugs for the treatment of insomnia. Rather than acting on many areas of the brain, these new drugs have specific targets such as orexin and serotonin receptors. The drug companies report that the compounds being developed will potentially have fewer side effects, be less addictive and interact less with alcohol than current medications used to treat insomnia.

NHLBI will no longer participate in the innovative research grant (R21) program

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Last week the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) announced that it will no longer accept investigator-initiated, exploratory/developmental grant (R21) applications in response to the National Institutes of Health’s Parent Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA), NIH Exploratory Developmental Research Grant Program (Parent R21).

Study funded by AHRQ finds that few primary care clinicians screen for OSA

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this month the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality reported that a recent study funded by the AHRQ revealed that very few primary care clinicians (PCCs) routinely screen for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The study gathered information from 44 randomly selected practices in five regional, practice-based research networks.

The study found that only 10 of the 44 PCCs (23 percent) who were interviewed said that they routinely screen patients for OSA. Only 14 of the 45 PCCs could identify 25 patients in their practices with OSA despite using multiple methods and having three months to do so.

U.S. News and World Report names best hospitals for 2011-2012

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week U.S. News and World Report announced the results of its annual Best Hospitals evaluation. Of the nearly 5,000 hospitals that were evaluated for the 2011-2012 rankings, 17 qualified for a place on the Best Hospitals Honor Roll, which is reserved for medical centers that demonstrate unusually high expertise across multiple specialties by scoring at or near the top in at least six of 16 specialties. Heading the Honor Roll are Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Md., Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Mass., and Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn.

CMS to host an ICD-10 national provider call on Wednesday, Aug. 3

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Is your office preparing for a smooth transition to ICD-10 on Oct. 1, 2013? To assist you in your preparation, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is going to host a national provider call on "ICD-10 Implementation Strategies for Physicians" on Wednesday, Aug. 3, 2011, from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. EDT. CMS subject matter experts will discuss ways that physician offices can prepare for the change to ICD-10 for medical diagnosis and inpatient procedure coding. A question and answer session will follow the presentations.

AASM Congratulates New Fellow Members

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor that recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field. The AASM is pleased to welcome the following new Fellow Members:

Anita Bhola, MD, FAASM
Lance S Patton, MD, FAASM
Katherine M Sharkey, MD, PhD, FAASM
Anwar Wassel, MD, FAASM

NHLBI Genomics Symposium is Sept. 12-13

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute is hosting, “Genomics: Gene Discovery and Clinical Applications for Cardiovascular, Lung, and Blood Diseases,” a symposium that will take place Sept. 12-13 at the Natcher Conference Center at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Md. The symposium will focus on cutting-edge findings in recent and ongoing genome-wide research studies, highlighting novel discoveries that include results from large-scale collaborative studies, new analysis techniques, novel directions in functional genomics, and translational research.

NIH announces “sleep and social environment” grant opportunity

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Basic Behavioral and Social Sciences Research Opportunity Network (OppNet) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) issued a funding opportunity announcement (RFA-HD-12-204) for Research Project Grant (R21) applications that propose to investigate the reciprocal interactions of the processes of sleep and circadian regulation and function with behavioral and social environment processes. The grant offers a unique opportunity to link social environment factors that shape sleep behaviors with the direct neurobehavioral and circadian biology effects of sleep processes on individuals in the context of their social milieu.

Sell-out alert: Limited seats remain for the AASM Board Review course in Denver

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

As of Wednesday morning, July 20, 2011, only 31 seats remain for the AASM’s Board Review for the Sleep Specialist course in Denver, Colo., Aug. 12–14, 2011. Individuals interested in attending the Denver course are encouraged to register online as soon as possible. The AASM’s Board Review for the Sleep Specialist course in Reston, Va., Sept. 9–11, 2011, is sold out.

CMS Publishes 2012 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule in the Federal Register

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On July 8, the AASM announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) had released the display copy of the 2012 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule, which is being reviewed and analyzed by AASM staff. This week the Proposed Rule was published online in the Federal Register. The final decisions on the proposed policy and payment changes are scheduled to be published in November 2011 in the final rule.

Comparative Billing Reports: New Resource and AASM Response

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

As an additional resource, the AASM has developed a template letter to assist members in drafting a response to the CBR Producer. This two-page form letter can be used in whole or in part, and it should be modified to reflect the specifics of each member’s practice. Members interested in responding to the CBR are encouraged to send a personally modified version of the form letter or their own individually crafted letter to the CBR Producer.

Submit Nominations for SLEEP 2012 Speakers by July 27

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Submit your recommendations for speakers for SLEEP 2012, the 26th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC, which will be held June 9-13, 2012, at the John B. Hynes Veterans Memorial Convention Center in Boston, Mass. The Program Committee is accepting recommendations for Keynote Speakers, Invited Lecturers and Meet the Professors.

American Academy of Sleep Medicine Names Emory Sleep Specialist Nancy Collop, MD, President

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Nancy A. Collop, MD, director of the Emory Sleep Center and professor of Medicine and Neurology at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Ga., became the 26th president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) in June. Her one-year term as president of the board of directors began Monday, June 13, 2011, at SLEEP 2011, the 25th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS) in Minneapolis, Minn.

NHLBI Releases Executive Summary of Bariatric Sugery Workshop

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Experts in bariatric surgery, cardiovascular disease, sleep disordered breathing, clinical trials, guideline development, and insurance coverage concurred with the need for randomized controlled trials as an important step in developing a strong evidence base for bariatric surgery.

Medscape Expands its Electronic Health Records Incentive Programs Learning Center

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The learning center now includes new articles, interviews and tool kit resources. Also, it will soon feature information on the meaningful use requirements that must be met to demonstrate successful participation in the EHR incentive program.

AASM Recognizes Its Top Member Recruiters

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the AASM's top Member-Get-A-Member Campaign recruiters for the month of June. These members are contributing to the growth of the organization by reaching out to their professional colleagues and encouraging them to join the AASM.

Earn CME Credit Online: July Issue of SLEEP

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

You can earn CME credits online by reading designated articles and taking the online CME exams within one year of the date of publication.

AASM Board Review Course: Deadline and Sellout Alert

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Limited seats remain for the AASM's Board Review for the Sleep Specialist course to be held Aug. 12-14, 2011, in Denver, Colo. The Sept. 9-11, 2011 course is SOLD OUT.

SLEEP 2011 Scientific Posters Available Online

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

View and discuss nearly 250 of the top scientific abstracts presented as posters at SLEEP 2011, the 25th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies.

Application Deadline for ABSM Sleep Technologist Registry Exam is Aug. 1

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Make sure to visit the ABSM website for more information Sleep Technologist Registry Exam coming up Nov. 11, 2011.

Impact Factor for SLEEP is Announced

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

According to Journal Citation Reports statistics , the 2010 impact factor for SLEEP is 5.486. This places the journal in the upper 5.12 percentile of all scientific journals.

AASM Congratulates New Fellow Members

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor that recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field. If you are interested in becoming a Fellow member of the AASM, please review the requirements on the AASM website. All required documentation should be submitted to the AASM Membership Department.

Sleep Technology Licensure Bill is Signed into Law in Oregon

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Bill requires that an applicant for licensure complete educational and training requirements approved by a newly constructed Respiratory Therapist for Polysomnographic Technologist Licensing Board before obtaining a sleep technologist license. The bill also establishes a scope of practice for sleep technologists, outlining the procedures they can perform under the general supervision of a licensed physician.

CMS Releases a Display Copy of the Proposed Physician Fee Schedule for 2012

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On July 1, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a display copy of the proposed rule for the proposed changes to policy and payment for the Physician Fee Schedule for 2012. If implemented, changes outlined in the proposed rule will significantly affect sleep physicians.

HypnoGram: Standards in Sleep Medicine

Fri, 08 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

My thoughts for this week center around STANDARDS. The AASM has set the standards for sleep medicine since its inception many years ago: Practice parameters; center accreditation; standards for physicians, which eventually morphed into the American Board of Sleep Medicine; ASTEP, an education program for sleep technologists; DME accreditation; out-of-center sleep testing accreditation; the list goes on. But all of these processes require constant evaluation and re-evaluation to keep them current. As the field has grown, so has the AASM staff, by leaps and bounds, to stay ahead of the required changes. As healthcare reform looms large, the AASM - as the leader in the field of sleep medicine - needs to stay ahead of the curve by anticipating changes and being nimble in improving our standards as necessary.

AASM White Paper on the Future of Sleep Medicine is Online for Member Comment

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Under the leadership of Patrick J. Strollo Jr., MD, an AASM Presidential Task Force on the Future of Sleep Medicine and workgroups of thought leaders in the sleep field have been examining how changes in health-care delivery might impact the evaluation, management and treatment of patients with sleep disorders. Their reports have been compiled in an AASM white paper that addresses three key topics: frameworks for healthcare delivery such as the patient-centered medical home (PCMH), patient registries, and new outcomes measures and tools for the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders.

NIH Seeks Applicants for the 2011 Council of Public Representatives

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is seeking nominations to fill vacant appointments to the 2011 Council of Public Representatives (COPR) roster. The COPR consists of up to 21 individuals with diverse backgrounds from local, regional, and national levels, with a range of professions and experiences, including community leaders, patient advocates, health educators, media, medical and public health professionals, science administrators, and academicians who have a broad public perspective. Every year NIH selects new COPR members who serve an average of four-year terms.

HHS is Advised to Halt the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Montana congressman Denny Rehberg, Chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor-HHS-Education, recently sent a letter to HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius calling for a halt to the establishment of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) within the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He expressed concerns about how NCATS would impact existing programs such as Institutional Development Awards and Clinical and Translational Science Awards.

AASM Acknowledges June Contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

IOM Report Emphasizes the Role of Sleep in Preventing Early Childhood Obesity

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Last week the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies (IOM) released a new consensus report, “Early Childhood Obesity Prevention Policies.” The IOM reviewed factors related to overweight and obesity from birth to age 5, recommending actions that health-care professionals, caregivers and policymakers can take to prevent obesity in young children.

New Resource to Evaluate Scoring Skills Added to AASM Website

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Individuals interested in evaluating their sleep study scoring ability may now take advantage of a new resource available in the AASM Online Learning Center: 200-Epoch Scoring Reviews. These sets of 200 consecutive epochs from a clinical sleep recording (originally released through the AASM’s online Inter-scorer Reliability Testing Program), allow the user to practice scoring sleep stage, arousals, limb movements and respiratory events. Users will have the opportunity to compare their results with ISR program participants and to view a one-hour record review presentation that guides users through the most challenging epochs from that record.

SALE on Board Review Products in July!

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Planning to take the Nov. 10, 2011, American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) sleep medicine certification exam? With just more than four months remaining to prepare, the AASM has discounted several products that are essential for board review! Visit the AASM Online Store during the month of July to take 20% off of resources including the ICSD-2, Scoring Manual, Case Book, webinar archives and more!

SELL OUT ALERT: AASM Board Review Course in Reston is SOLD OUT; Limited Seats Remain in Denver

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

2011 will be the final opportunity for physicians to apply for the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) sleep medicine certification exam under the Practice Pathway, allowing individuals to take the exam without completion of a sleep medicine fellowship program. In order to provide physicians planning to take this exam with preparation resources, the AASM has scheduled two comprehensive Board Review for the Sleep Specialist courses in Denver, Colo., Aug. 12–14, 2011, and in Reston, Va. (a suburb of Washington, D.C.), Sept. 9–11, 2011.

AASM Releases Two New Children’s Books Promoting Healthy Sleep

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

As part of a recent campaign to promote increased education about sleep to children of all ages, the AASM has published two new children’s bedtime stories that will not only delight children with tales of the sleeping habits of animals from around the world, but will also teach them about the importance of a good night’s sleep. I See the Animals Sleeping: A Bedtime Story and The Animals Sleep: A Bedtime Book of Biomes both utilize colorful illustrations and rhythmic text to entertain children as they prepare for bed.

AASM Requests that CMS Exempt Sleep Physicians from eRx Penalties

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM’s letter outlines the potential difficulties that sleep specialists will run into when prescribing hypnotics and stimulants in states that do not allow these medications to be prescribed electronically.

HypnoGram: Current AASM Projects

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Hello everyone and welcome to the second installment of the Hypnogram. This week I want to update you on some of the current projects the AASM is working on. Out of center sleep testing for sleep apnea is currently a vexing issue for many centers. We are trying to help centers in their deployment of OCST.

NIH Announces Research Project Grant for SIDS Interventions

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) issued a funding opportunity announcement to encourage research project grant (R01) applications to improve the design, implementation and effectiveness of preventive interventions for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and unintentional injury infant deaths associated with the sleep environment.

NHLBI Considering a New Mentored Scientific & Career Enhancement Award in Sleep

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

At the June 15, 2011, meeting of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Advisory Council (NHLBAC), NHLBI staff presented 15 new initiatives that had been reviewed in May by the Board of External Experts (BEE). One of the proposed initiatives was a Mentored Scientific and Career Enhancement Award in Sleep and Circadian Health and Biology (K18), which would improve the capacity of established investigators to develop trans-disciplinary research programs that integrate the latest concepts in sleep and circadian biology.

AASM Working to Have Sleep Testing Included in the “Welcome to Medicare” Benefit

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM has been working with legislators in Washington, D.C., on a draft bill that would incorporate sleep disorders testing into the "Welcome to Medicare" benefit, which allows individuals entering the Medicare program to receive an initial preventive physical examination and other screening services without a copayment. Some of the other services included in this benefit are various cancer screening tests, cardiovascular screening blood tests, diabetes screening tests, and an electrocardiogram.

Extended sleep improves the athletic performance of collegiate basketball players

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the July 1 issue of the journal SLEEP shows that sleep extension is beneficial to athletic performance, reaction time, vigor, fatigue and mood in collegiate basketball players. The study is the first to document sleep extension and the athletic performance of actively competing athletes.

AASM Recognizes Sixth Comprehensive Academic Sleep Program of Distinction

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM congratulates the University of Washington Medicine Sleep Program, which was recently recognized as the sixth AASM Comprehensive Academic Sleep Program of Distinction. This program recognizes academic sleep programs that have demonstrated excellence though compliance with rigorous standards in the areas of clinical service, educational mission and research accomplishments.

Registration is Open for Six Fall 2011 Courses to be Held at the AASM National Office

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

This fall, the AASM will host several educational courses at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). View the course brochure. Registration is now open and space is limited; with many courses expected to sell out as physicians prepare to take the November sleep medicine certification exam, be sure to register early to reserve your space and save on registration fees.

For a Limited Time RPSGTs Can Receive the new RST Certificate from the ABSM

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP and JCSM Studies Now Have DOI Numbers

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Beginning with the current June issues of SLEEP and the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, all papers, letters, and commentaries published in both journals now have a unique Digital Object Identifier (DOI) assigned to them. A DOI number is a permanent identifier that enables you to quickly locate digital content. The DOI System makes it easy for you to find a study online when you enter the DOI number in a search on the CrossRef website.

Responding to Recent Medicare Comparative Billing Reports: Important Contact Information

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM has received feedback from a number of members regarding the recent memo from Dr. Strollo about the Comparative Billing Reports (CBRs) that have been issued on behalf of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). A number of members’ questions relate to how one can contact Medicare regarding the CBR content.

HypnoGram: Read the First Edition of Dr. Collop’s Blog for Members

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

During her term as 2011-2012 AASM president, Dr. Nancy Collop will be writing regular blog posts to keep members up to date on the latest initiatives and activities of the AASM. Her blog, “HypnoGram,” will provide updates from meetings of the AASM board of directors as well as her personal insights regarding the state of the sleep field.

AASM Thanks Members for Making SLEEP 2011 a Success

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine board of directors appreciates the participation of all AASM members who gathered in Minneapolis, Minn., to attend SLEEP 2011, the 25th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS). Special thanks are extended to the numerous members who contributed to the premier scientific meeting in the sleep field by chairing or speaking at a session or course, presenting new science, leading a membership section or lending their expertise

AASM Submits Comments to NACOSH on Sleep and Workplace Safety

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM recently submitted comments on the importance of effective sleep as a vital element in achieving the goal of developing and maintaining safe workplaces. The AASM urged NACOSH and its Subgroup on Injury and Illness Prevention Programs to take a serious look at the undisputed implications between fatigue and workplace safety.

Welcome to the HypnoGram Blog

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Hello to all AASM members, and welcome to the first edition of the HypnoGram. This blog updates members on the workings of the board of directors and highlight activities of the AASM. I suspect that some weeks it will be full of board related information, such as those weeks following our board meetings and executive committee phone calls, and other weeks it will be more editorial in nature with musings of mine on the state of our field.

OIG Advisory Opinion Addresses DME and IDTF Contracts

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On June 21, 2011, the Office of Inspector General (OIG) posted Advisory Opinion No. 11-08 in response to a request for clarification regarding an existing arrangement and a proposed arrangement involving contracts between a durable medical equipment (DME) supplier and various independent diagnostic testing facilities (IDTF).

Receive Continuing Medical Education Credit for SLEEP 2011

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Attendees of SLEEP 2011, the 25^th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS) may claim Continuing Medical Education (CME) credit by completing an online evaluation at www.sleepmeeting.org/credits. In order to receive credit, the online evaluation must be completed on or before October 3, 2011.

Close-Out Sale on Single Webinar Archive CD-ROMs

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

All non-series AASM webinar archive CD-ROMs are now 50% off through the AASM Online Store, where you can review a full description of more than 50 presentations that are currently available. Webinars will be available only while inventory lasts, and all sales are final.

Attend Your Membership Section Meeting at SLEEP 2011

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

All SLEEP 2011 attendees are invited to attend the AASM section meetings, which provide members with a means to share focused interests, discuss ideas, develop methodologies, recommend programs, promote education through the AASM, stimulate research and express concerns.

AASM Releases New Edition of S.A.F.E.R.

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Recently, in an effort to ensure that SAFER provides institutions with updated information to meet Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) standards for resident duty hours, an AASM Task Force was established to review and revise the presentation. Now available in a convenient self-study multimedia format, the 25-minute, 2nd edition of SAFER is an essential tool for all teaching hospitals and institutions that wish to provide their staff with education about sleep deprivation in the health-care setting.

Attend the AASM General Membership Meeting at SLEEP 2011

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Make plans to attend the AASM General Membership Meeting Monday, June 13, 2011 from 12:30 p.m. - 1:45 p.m. at SLEEP 2011 in room 101B at the Minneapolis Convention Center. President Patrick Strollo, MD, and incoming President Nancy Collop, MD, will provide updates on AASM initiatives, and the recipients of the 2011 AASM Awards will be recognized. This meeting is open to all AASM members.

Onsite Registration at SLEEP 2011

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Individuals attending SLEEP 2011, the 25th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), can begin picking up their registration materials starting Friday, June 10, 2011 at 4:30 p.m. Registration counters (located outside of Exhibit Hall B on Level 1 of the Minneapolis Convention Center) will be open from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday for pre-registered attendees only. Individuals who would like to add a course registration or tickets to the Silver Jubilee reception can do so beginning at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 11, 2011.

Resources for the Sleep Technologist Registry Exam Are Now Available on the ABSM Website

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Visit the website of the American Board of Sleep Medicine for comprehensive information about the new ABSM Sleep Technologist Registry Examination, which will be offered for the first time Nov. 11, 2011. Information about how to earn the new Registered Sleep Technologist (RST) certificate includes a Candidate Handbook, an application and complete details about the limited-time awarding of the RST certificate to holders of the RPSGT credential. Go to www.absm.org for more information.

AASM Public Education Website is now “Your Sleep”

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

With the launch of the AASM’s new Sleep Education website for K-12 teachers, the AASM’s public education website has moved to www.yoursleep.aasmnet.org. Your Sleep contains accurate, reliable and patient friendly information about sleep and sleep disorders from the AASM. The interactive discussion forum also gives people a place to ask questions, discuss sleep-related issues and share their own stories. Encourage your patients to visit Your Sleep today!

AASM Launches New Sleep Education Website for K-12 Teachers

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep Education, a new website for K-12 teachers at www.sleepeducation.com, contains free lesson plans, activities, assessment tools and presentations that teachers can download to bring sleep into the classroom

Sleep apnea may increase the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including a higher incidence of gestational diabetes and early preterm birth, suggests a research abstract to be presented at SLEEP 2011. Few past studies have examined the relationship between sleep apnea in pregnancy and adverse obstetrical outcomes.

How to Respond to Recent Medicare Comparative Billing Reports

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) provided Comparative Billing Reports (CBRs) nationally to the highest frequency billers of the sleep medicine services to educate providers regarding proper billing practices. Steps to take in response to receiving a Medicare CBR only relate to those sent during May and June 2011 to the highest frequency billers of the following CPT/HCPCS codes: 95805, 95806, 95807, 95808, 95810, 95811, G0398, G0399 and G0400.

White adolescent girls may be losing sleep from the pressure to be thin

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep duration has a significant association with feelings of external pressure to obtain or maintain a thin body among adolescent girls, especially those who are white, suggests a research abstract to be presented at SLEEP 2011.

Sleep loss in early childhood may contribute to the development of ADHD symptoms

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Study shows that preschool-age children who got less sleep were more likely to be hyperactive and inattentive in kindergarten. According to the authors of the abstract to be presented at SLEEP 2011, the findings suggest that some children who do not get adequete sleep may be at risk for developing behavioral problems.

Shorter sleep durations may increase genetic risks for obesity

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Sleeping less at night may increase the genetic risks for obesity, while getting plenty of sleep may suppress genetic influences on body weight. Results show that among twins with shared environmental influences, longer sleep duration was associated with decreased body mass index.

Weekend sleep fails to improve performance, but women handle workweek sleep loss better

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Performance deteriorates when sleep is restricted to six hours per night for a week and does not improve after two nights of recovery sleep. However, women may be less affected than men by this workweek pattern of sleep loss, suggests a research abstract that will be presented at SLEEP 2011.

Blame game: Sleepier college students are more likely to blame others and plan revenge

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Sleepier college students are more likely to think about what others could have done to make things better, even to the extent of planning revenge, suggests a research abstract to be presented at SLEEP 2011. Sleepiness was positively correlated with counterfactual thinking, which involves thoughts about how events in the past could have been different.

The good life: Good sleepers have better quality of life and less depression

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Getting six to nine hours of sleep per night is associated with higher ratings for quality of life and lower ratings for depression. A research abstract that will be presented at SLEEP 2011 reports that short and long sleepers had lower scores for quality of life and depression than normal sleepers.

Bad sleep habits are associated with lower grades from high school through college

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Declines in sleep hygiene across the college years are associated with declines in grade-point average. Although students who are "evening types" initially experience the greatest decline in GPA from high school to college, their grades improve as they shift towards a morning chronotype, suggests new research to be presented at SLEEP 2011.

College students sleep longer but drink more and get lower grades when classes start later

Wed, 08 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Although a class schedule with later start times allows college students to get more sleep, it also gives them more time to stay out drinking at night. A new research abstract at SLEEP 2011 shows that later class times were associated with a delayed sleep schedule, which led to poorer sleep, more daytime sleepiness and a lower grade-point average.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia can reduce suicidal ideation

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Treating sleep problems with cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia can reduce suicidal ideation. A growing body of evidence shows that self-reported insomnia and poor sleep quality constitute modifiable risk factors for suicide. A research abstract to be presented at SLEEP 2011 found that a group cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia produced a statistically significant post-treatment reduction in suicidal ideation.

Sleep can boost classroom performance of college students

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep can help college students retain and integrate new information to solve problems on a classroom exam. Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis, MO found that performance on a microeconomics test was preserved after a 12-hour period that included sleep. When the 12 hour period did not include sleep, students' test performance declined.

Daytime sleepiness is associated with an increased craving for carbs among teens

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Sleepy teens are more likely to have a strong craving for carbohydrates, suggests a research abstract to be presented at SLEEP 2011. The study is one of the first in a high school population to show a relationship between sleep deprivation, depression and carbohydrate craving.

Cooling the brain during sleep may be an easy, natural and effective treatment for insomnia

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

People with primary insomnia may be able to find relief by wearing a cap that cools the brain during sleep, suggests a research abstract that will be presented at SLEEP 2011. A reduction in metabolism in the brain's frontal cortex occurs while falling asleep and is associated with restorative sleep. Insomnia is associated with increased metabolism in the region. Researchers found that the cap reduced metabolic activity and improved sleep latency and sleep efficiency.

Sleep problems may be a link between perceived racism and poor health

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Perceived racial discrimination is associated with an increased risk of sleep disturbance, which may have a negative impact on mental and physical health. The authors of an abstract to be presented at SLEEP 2011 report that individuals who perceived racial discrimination were more likely to experience sleep difficult, no matter their race, sex or income.

AASM Recognizes Top Member Recruiters

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the AASM’s top Member-Get-A-Member Campaign recruiters for the month of May. These individuals are contributing to the growth of the organization by reaching out to their professional colleagues and encouraging them to join the AASM. For each new member recruited, these individuals will receive a $15 Recognition of Excellence Money (REM) Voucher that can be used toward AASM resources including product purchases, course registrations and more.

Earn CME Credit Online: June Issue of SLEEP

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The June 1 issue of the journal SLEEP is available online, and AASM members have access to the full text of each article when you log in on the website. You also can earn continuing medical education (CME) credits online by reading designated articles and taking the online CME exams within one year of the date of publication. Use the "My CME Credits" page to access your records and print letters of participation. Register today and start earning CME credits from your home or office.

IOM Report Examines Geographic Adjustments to Medicare Payments

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies (IOM) issued a new consensus committee report, “Geographic Adjustment in Medicare Payment: Phase I: Improving Accuracy.” The report, which was sponsored by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), examined Medicare’s practice of adjusting fee-for-service payments to hospitals, physicians, and other clinical practitioners according to the geographic locations in which they practice.

OIG Announces $3.4 Billion in Expected Recoveries

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On June 1 the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) released a statement announcing that it expects to recover $3.4 billion from investigations, audits and reviews occurring between October 2010 and March 2011, mainly involving Medicare and Medicaid. Coding Corner articles are archived on the Coding Page of the AASM website for future reference.

Board Exam Preparation: Less than Six Months Remain

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Physicians planning to sit for the Nov. 10, 2011, sleep medicine certification exam have less than six months remaining to prepare. During this time, take advantage of the many resources offered by the AASM for board review including the Board Review for the Sleep Specialist Courses, Board Review Webinar Archives, Practice Exams.

Arrive Early in Minneapolis to Register Onsite and Add Courses for SLEEP 2011

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Pre-registration for SLEEP 2011, the 25th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS) is now closed. Individuals wishing to register for the meeting or add courses to their existing registration must do so onsite in Minneapolis.

Screening high-risk employees for sleep apnea could save a corporation millions of dollars

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Large corporations could save millions of dollars by screening and treating high-risk employees for obstructive sleep apnea. A study to be presented at SLEEP 2011 found that a large Florida-based corporation could save an estimated $136 million in lost productivity over 10 years. Untreated sleep apnea results in job performance deficiences such as excessive sleepiness, cognitive dysfunction, irritability and reduced vitality.

Sleepiness may impair the brain’s inhibitory control when viewing high-calorie foods

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Daytime sleepiness may affect inhibitory control in the brain when viewing tantalizing, high-calorie foods, suggests a new research abstract. Greater sleepiness was associated with decreased activation in the prefrontal cortex during visual presentations of enticing, high-calorie food images. The prefrontal cortex is a brain region that plays an important role in inhibitory processing.

Study finds that wives’ sleep problems have negative impact on marital interactions

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The quality of interactions among married couples is affected by wives' inability to fall asleep at night, but not by husbands' sleep problems. Study results show that, among wives, taking longer to fall asleep at night predicted their reports of more negative and less positive marital interactions the next day, and it also predicted their husband's reports of less positive marital interaction ratings the following day.

Sleep type predicts day and night batting averages of Major League Baseball players

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A Major League Baseball player’s natural sleep preference might affect his batting average in day and night games. The results of a research abstract to be presented at SLEEP 2011 indicate that players who were "morning types" had a higher batting average in early games than players who were "evening types." In games starting after 2 p.m., players who were evening types gained an advantage that persisted through the evening. A group of 16 players from seven Major League Baseball teams participated in the study.

Simple analysis of breathing sounds while awake can detect obstructive sleep apnea

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The analysis of breathing sounds while awake may be a fast, simple and accurate screening tool for obstructive sleep apnea. Results of study to be presented Monday at SLEEP 2011 show that several sound features of breathing were statistically significant between participants with obstructive sleep apnea and healthy controls.

Get Involved: Volunteer to Bring Science Education to Local Classrooms

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM encourages members to get involved in your community by volunteering to bring science education to local classrooms. One resource that can help you is the National Lab Network, a national initiative that connects K-12 teachers with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) professionals to bring hands-on learning experiences to students in all 50 states.

Memorial Day: AASM National Office will be Closed Monday, May 30

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In observance of the federal Memorial Day holiday, the national offices of the AASM, Sleep Research Society, Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC, American Board of Sleep Medicine, American Association of Sleep Technologists, and American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine will be closed Monday, May 30, and will reopen Tuesday, May 31, at 8 a.m. CDT.

AASM Acknowledges May Contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

AASM Congratulates Recipients of the 2011 Section Investigator Awards

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM congratulates the recipients of the 2011 Section Investigator Awards, which honor the most outstanding abstract from a young investigator within the membership of each section. The award recipients will be recognized and will have an opportunity to present their abstract during their membership section meeting at SLEEP 2011 in Minneapolis, Minn.

AASM Urges CMS to Include Sleep Measures in Standards for Accountable Care Organizations

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In late May, the AASM submitted comments to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on the proposed rule to establish standards for the operation of Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs), which create incentives for health-care providers to work together to treat an individual Medicare patient across care settings – including doctor’s offices, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.

Medicare Publishes Proposed Rule on Accountable Care Organizations

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In April, Medicare published a proposed rule describing the Shared Savings Program, which is required by the Affordable Care Act to improve outcomes by promoting accountability and quality of care. Providers are encouraged to review the proposed rule and submit comments to Medicare by close of business on June 6, 2011.

Final Days for FREE Shipping and Discounted Personalized Brochures

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Tuesday, May 31, 2011, is the final day to receive FREE shipping on product orders through the AASM Online Store. Members in the 48 continental United States can take advantage of this offer on all UPS Ground orders for our most popular products including reference manuals, patient education brochures (non-personalized), educational CD-ROMs and more.

Last Minute Registrations and Planning for SLEEP 2011

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The last day to pre-register is this Wednesday, June 1; after this date, only onsite registrations will be accepted. Space remains in several ticketed courses and sessions along wtih the Silver Jubilee reception. More information can be found in the Final Program, available at the SLEEP 2011 website.

Attend Your Membership Section Meeting at SLEEP 2011

Fri, 27 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

CMS Issues Proposed Rule to Revise Medicare Electronic Prescribing Penalty

Thu, 26 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued a proposed rule for changes to the Medicare Electronic Prescribing (eRx) Incentive Program. The proposed rule is on display at the Federal Register, and the deadline for submitting comments is July 25, 2011.

Collins Testifies before Senate Subcommittee on FY 2012 NIH Budget

Sat, 21 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

National Institutes of Health Director Francis S. Colins presented the NIH fiscal year 2012 budget request before the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies.

OIG Presentation Materials from Provider Compliance Training are Available Online

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Office of Inspector General has posted presentation materials on its website from the recent HEAT Provider Compliance Training webcast.

AASM Congratulates New Fellow Members

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor that recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field. f you are interested in becoming a Fellow member of the AASM, please review the requirements on the AASM website.

NHLBI Grants Target Obesity and Diabetes Using Virtual Reality Technologies

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) has issued two program announcements and two requests for applications related to Virtual Reality Technologies for Research and Education in Obesity and Diabetes: a research project grant, an exploratory and development research grant award, a small business innovation research grant and a small business technology transfer grant.

AASM Remasters Board Review Webinar Archives for Online Learning Center

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Several presentations from the AASM online webinar series covering topics related to the blueprint of the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) sleep medicine certification exam have been remastered to improve audio quality and compatibility with the AASM Online Learning Center.

Registration Open for Two Live Board Review Practice Exam Courses

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In addition to Board Review courses, reference texts and online practice exams, the AASM has announced a live, full-day Board Review Practice Exam course that will be held twice in the weeks prior to the exam. Individuals may now register for this course, which will be held Saturday, Oct. 29, 2011, or Sunday, Oct. 30, 2011, at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois.

Pre-Registration for SLEEP 2011 Ends June 1, 2011

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2011, the 25^th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), is less than one month away! The last day to pre-register is Wednesday, June 1, 2011; after this date, only onsite registrations will be accepted.

Shaquille O’Neal Brings Attention to Sleep Apnea and CPAP in Harvard Video

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The video, "Shaq attacks sleep apnea," shows NBA big man Shaquille O'Neal interacting with Harvard sleep specialists as they prepare him for an overnight sleep study. They discuss treatment options and select a CPAP mask after the study shows that he has moderate obstructive sleep apnea.

AASM Submits Comments to Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Comments addressed recently released studies related to hours of service for drivers of commercial vehicles. The AASM noted the studies provide evidence to support the well-established scientific connection between hour of work and fatigue.

AASM Congratulates the 2011 ASMF Grant Recipients

Fri, 20 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM congratulates the recipients of the 2011 ASMF grants, who will be recognized Monday, June 13, 2011, in Minneapolis, Minn., during the AASM General Membership Meeting at SLEEP 2011. Each year the ASMF provides research scientists with funding opportunities for sleep-related investigations, while also supporting the education and training of sleep scientists and sleep medicine specialists.

OIG Offers FREE, Live Webcast of Provider Compliance Training on Wednesday, May 18

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Office of Inspector General (OIG) will offer a FREE, live webcast of its HEAT Provider Compliance Training, which will be held on Wednesday, May 18, 2011. Hear from Inspector General Daniel Levinson and other government experts as they educate local health care providers and compliance officers about the realities of Medicare fraud and the importance of implementing an effective compliance program.

Shaquille O’Neal Appears in Harvard Online Module about Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

This new module, entitled “APNEA,” features a video highlighting Mr. Shaquille O'Neal, a newly diagnosed obstructive sleep apnea patient. The module contains extensive information on the symptoms, personal and societal impact, diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea delivered through a mixture of text, graphics, video and user-interactive media.

NIH Announces Planning Grants for Clinical Trials Related to Type 1 Diabetes

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A funding opportunity announcement from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) will utilize the NIH Clinical Trial Planning Grant to support the development of clinical trials in individuals with type 1 diabetes. These trials should be designed to improve glycemic control and/or treat or reduce diabetes complications.

AASM Congratulates the Winners of the 2011 ASMF High School Topical Review in Sleep Science Contest

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The ASMF High School Topical Review in Sleep Science Contest recognizes excellence in the understanding of scientific research and in the preparation of a topical review paper related to sleep. The AASM congratulates first-place prize winner Julia Deutsch and the rest of the winners of the 2011 contest.

SLEEP 2011 to Provide In-Depth Coverage of Latest Advances in Sleep Medicine & Sleep Research

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

There are only 20 days left to register for the SLEEP 2011 meeting at a discounted price; register by June 1, 2011, to save on the on-site registration fees. This year’s meeting has a number of sessions highlighting the latest advances in sleep medicine and sleep research.

AASM Congressional Forum on Sleep Medicine is a Success

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A Washington D.C. forum sponsored by U.S. Rep. Judy Biggert (R-IL) was attended by Congressional Health Policy staffers. The forum including presentations by sleep experts from the AASM, AADSM and SRS that educated lawmakers and their staff on the importance of effective sleep and the essential role of the sleep medicine and sleep research communities.

Maryland House Bill 560 and Senate Bill 641 Signed into Law

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Tuesday, May 10, Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley signed House Bill 560 (HB 560) and Senate Bill 641 (SB 641) into law. The bills, which have identical language, delay the licensing of sleep technologists until Oct. 1, 2013.

Are You Considered the Medicare EHR Incentive Program?

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Medicare Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program gives providers the opportunity to receive significant incentive payments for the demonstration of meaningful use of EHR technology. Read the full article to learn more about this program.

CMS Comparative Billing Report Examines Billing Practices for Sleep Study Services

Fri, 13 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In response to the identification in the Office of Inspector General (OIG) 2010 and 2011 Work Plans of a rapid expansion of sleep study services, a Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) contractor has performed an analysis of billing practices for nine sleep study services. This analysis will be used to provide individual physicians with a Comparative Billing Report (CBR), which will address the services identified by specific CPT codes.

SLEEP 2011 Industry Events to Feature the Latest Technologies and Innovations in Sleep

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In addition to more than 1,000 scientific abstracts and 100 courses and sessions, SLEEP 2011, the 25th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), will feature several events sponsored by leading manufacturers, pharmaceutical companies and innovators in the industry.

Registration Opens for Fall 2011 AASM Sleep Education Series Courses

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

This fall, the AASM will host several educational courses at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). Registration is now open for several of these courses and space is limited; with many courses expected to sell out as physicians prepare to take the November sleep medicine certification exam, be sure to register early to reserve your space and save on registration fees.

AASM Submits Comments to Federal Railroad Administration Regarding Duty Hours

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM submitted comments to the Federal Railroad Administration on the proposed modification of duty hours for train employees who provide commuter and intercity rail passenger transportation. The AASM cautioned that hours of duty limitations also are necessary for other train employees; fatigue from inadequate sleep can affect the performance of personnel who provide critical maintenance and oversight, which also increases the risk of accidents.

AASM Congratulates the 2011 Young Investigator Award Recipient

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Each year the AASM recognizes the outstanding efforts of a young investigator in the field of sleep research with the Young Investigator Award. These award recipients will be recognized Monday, June 13, 2011, in Minneapolis, Minn., during the AASM General Membership Meeting at SLEEP 2011, the 25th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC.

District of Columbia Finalizes Regulations for the Practice of Sleep Technology

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The bill establishes a scope of practice for sleep technology and establishes the licensure and registration requirements for a sleep technologist, technician and trainee in the District of Columbia. The Board, along with the newly created Advisory Committee on Polysomnography comprised of physicians and sleep technologists, was directed to develop the education and training standards for regulating the practice.

Discounts Offered on AASM Patient Education Brochures

Fri, 06 May 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Members of the AASM now have the opportunity to take advantage of $20 off all packs of personalized brochures - a savings of greater than 30 percent. In addition AASM members can add a free sampler pack of patient brochures in their next online purchase. To receive the free sampler pack, use the coupon code included in this full article.

IOM Releases Report on Child and Adolescent Health and Health Care

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The report evaluated the state of efforts to measure child and adolescent health and the quality of their health care services. The report concluded that the lack of standardization between data sets, as well as the lack of information on physical and social environments, limits researchers' ability to accurately assess the data.

NIH Releases 2011 Fiscal Policy for Grant Awards

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The notice indicates that NIH has been allocated a budget of $30.9 billion, which is nearly one percent less than the total fiscal year (FY) 2010 budget authority level of $31.2 billion. As a result, the NIH will implement reductions in commitment levels for non-competing research awards.

Medicare EHR Incentive Program Attestation Conference Call is Thursday, May 5

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

CMS is holding a conference call for eligible professionals (EPs) who are participating in the Medicare Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program to provide information on the attestation process. The focus of the call will be to help guide users through the CMS web-based attestation system. Login to learn more details about the scheduled conference call.

IN THE NEWS: Sleeping Neurons during Wakefulness

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study published Wednesday in Nature examined freely behaving rats after a long period in an awake state. The researchers found that, although both the EEG and behavior indicate wakefulness, local populations of neurons in the cortex may be falling asleep, with negative consequences for performance.

NHLBI Posts Executive Summary from Workshop on Sleep-Disordered Breathing and CVD

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The workshop outlines specific scientific priorities in the areas of sleep, circadian and neuroendocrine mechanisms of energy metabolism; cardiovascular and SDB pathophysiology; and intermediate molecular markers of CVD and SDB. To view the executive summary, login and read the full article.

SLEEP 2011 Networking Event to Celebrate the APSS 25th Anniversary Meeting

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The APSS will host a networking reception on the evening of Sunday, June 12, 2011 from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at the Minneapolis Convention Center. The Silver Jubilee Reception will provide participants with the opportunity to network with other attendees as well as provide needed support to future sleep research.

CMS Announces Provider Teleconference on ICD-10 Conversion Activities

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Registration is now open for a 90-minute provider call to be held Wednesday, May 18, 2011, from 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. EDT to discuss the conversion to ICD-10 within CMS. The call will feature presentations on ICD-10 related topics including Lab NCDs conversion process from ICD-9-CM to ICD-10-CM, Home health conversion, OASIS and procedure code reporting, implementation issues and more.

AASM Recognizes Fifth Comprehensive Academic Sleep Program of Distinction

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM recognizes the Center for Pediatric Sleep Disorders at the Children's Hospital Boston as the fifth AASM Comprehensive Academic Sleep Program of Distinction. The program recognizes academic sleep programs that have demonstrated excellence through compliance with rigorous standards in the areas of clinical service, educational mission and research accomplishments.

AASM Congratulates Recipients of 2011 AASM Awards

Fri, 29 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Each year the AASM Awards recognize leaders in sleep medicine who have made significant contributions to both the AASM and the sleep field. The 2011 AASM Awards Ceremony will take place Monday, June 13, 2011, in Minneapolis, Minn., during the plenary session of SLEEP 2011, the 25th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC.

Adverse changes in sleep duration associated with lower cognitive scores in middle-aged adults

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the May 1 issue of the journal SLEEP describes how changes in sleep that occur over a five-year period in late middle age affect cognitive function in later life. The findings suggest that women and men who begin sleeping more or less than 6 to 8 hours per night are subject to an accelerated cognitive decline that is equivalent to four to seven years of aging.

Study is the first to link sleep duration to infant growth spurts

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the May 1 issue of the journal SLEEP is the first to show that increased bursts of sleep among infants are significantly associated with growth spurts in body length.

Final Free Learning Module: "Cognitive Behavioral Therapy of Fatigue/Sleepiness"

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Throughout the month of April 2011, members had the opportunity to experience the new AASM Online Learning Center by viewing a different educational presentation for free each week. The final online learning module included in this offer “Cognitive Behavioral Therapy of Fatigue/Sleepiness: Measures That a Practicing Sleep Physician Can Use” was posted Monday, April 25.

Philips Consumer Lifestyle Offers Light Therapy Research Grant

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Philips Consumer Lifestyle is offering a research grant, or grants, of up to $100,000 to further the understanding of the effects of light on well-being. Particular attention will be directed toward areas related to sleep, circadian regulation, alertness, learning and cognition. All applications must be received by June 13, 2011. Find a link to the complete details within the article.

Attestation for the Medicare EHR Incentive Program Begins

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week, attestation for the Medicare EHR Incentive Program began. This means that eligible professionals (EPs), eligible hospitals, and critical access hospitals (CAHs) can attest through the CMS web-based attestation system and be on the way to receiving Medicare EHR incentive payments.

Final Days of Sale: 25% Discount on Several Top Selling Products for Sleep Technologists

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Equip sleep technologists and technicians at your facility with the resources needed for them to excel by purchasing discounted educational material from the AASM during the month of April. During this sale, several of the AASM’s most popular products for sleep technologists will be discounted by 25 percent.

Social Media: Stay Connected with the AASM

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Stay connected with the AASM online and participate in ongoing discussions about sleep and sleep disorders by following the AASM on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and the Sleep Education Blog. AASM members also can view and post comments in the Member’s Discussion Forum when you log in on the AASM website at www.aasmnet.org.

In the News: School Start Times, Individual Sleep Needs, Air-Traffic Controllers, & EPAP

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep has been a hot topic in the media with coverage a Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine study which found that automobile crash rates may be higher for teens who start school earlier. New York Times Magazine examined the topic of individual sleep needs, pointing out that the body does not adapt to less sleep. Fatigued air traffic controllers falling asleep on the job also received extensive coverage. And the Wall Street Journal looked at the efficacy of an expiratory airway pressure device.

Final Days to Take Advantage of Free Preview of AASM Online Learning Modules

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Online learning modules provide sleep professionals with the opportunity to view a multimedia presentation online and earn CME credit in an on-demand format. Topics are presented by leaders in the field and have been developed specifically for online viewing as well as captured at previous live AASM Sleep Education courses. During the month of April 2011, the AASM is posting a new presentation each week to give members the opportunity to experience this new educational format for free.

SLEEP 2011 Advanced Registration Ends Wednesday, April 27

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Register for SLEEP 2011 on or before Wednesday, April 27 to save up to 25 percent on registration fees. Many ticketed sessions at the meeting sell out quickly, and it is recommended that you register early to ensure you can attend all of your desired sessions.

Invite Your U.S. Representative to AASM Congressional Forum on Sleep Medicine

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is conducting a Congressional Forum on Sleep Medicine in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, May 4, from 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. to educate lawmakers and their staff in the U.S. House of Representatives on the importance of effective sleep and the essential role of the sleep medicine and sleep research communities. To ensure that the forum is well attended, the AASM is asking members to contact the D.C. office of your elected official in the U.S. House of Representatives to discuss this forum and urge his or her attendance. The AASM has provided a script (available within the article) that you can use when making phone calls and sending follow-up emails.

Stream Learning Module "Incorporating DME Into Your Practice" Free in the AASM Online Learning Center

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Find out how to operate and maintain a Durable Medical Equipment resource with the newest FREE online learning module available in the AASM Online Learning Center. Visit the AASM Online Learning Center homepage between Monday, April 18 and Sunday, April 24 to view “Incorporating DME Into Your Practice” for FREE.

Next Sleep Disorders Research Advisory Board Meeting is April 29

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The next in-person, public meeting of the Sleep Disorders Research Advisory Board (SDRAB), which is an advisory committee of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), will be held Friday, April 29, 2011, on the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Campus in Bethesda, Md., Building 31, C wing, Room 6, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

FDA Approves Horizant to Treat Restless Legs Syndrome

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced the approval of Horizant Extended Release Tablets, a once-daily treatment for moderate to severe restless legs syndrome (RLS). Horizant is the third drug approved by the FDA for the treatment of moderate to severe RLS, joining Requip and Mirapex.

NHLBI Announces Short-Term Training Grant Involving Pediatric Sleep Medicine

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute released a funding opportunity announcement for a Short-Term Institutional Training Grant in Pediatric Respiratory, Sleep, Hematology and Transfusion Medicine. The program will provide stipends for 2 to 3 months to 5 to 7 trainees per program to cover living expenses during the research training experience.

AASM Acknowledges April Contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

For the April ISR Testing Program, the AASM gratefully acknowledges Nihon Kohden America for contributing software, Sleep HealthCenters for providing sleep records, and Dr. Kannan Ramar for serving as the second gold standard. Their participation in the AASM’s effort to provide a national standard for sleep scoring is greatly appreciated.

Earn CME Credit Online: April Issue of JCSM

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The April 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine is now available online, and AASM members have access to the full text of each article when you log in on the website. You also can earn continuing medical education (CME) credits online by reading designated articles and taking the online CME exams within one year of the date of publication.

AASM Membership Sections Chair Election Results

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM thanks all members who voted in the Membership Sections Chair Election and congratulates members who were elected as 2011-2012 section chairs. View the full article to see the results.

Deadlines and Updates for SLEEP 2011

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2011, the 25th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), will be held June 11–15, 2011, in Minneapolis, Minn. Click ahead to view the deadlines and advisories for registration, sessions, hotel reservations and more.

American Board of Anesthesiology Receives ABMS Approval to Offer Sleep Medicine Exam

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The 2011 ABMS sleep medicine certification exam will be the final opportunity for physicians to apply under the Practice Pathway. After this exam, all first-time applicants must have completed a formal sleep medicine fellowship program. For a list of the ABMS member boards that will offer the exam read more.

SLEEP 2011 Abstract Supplement Available as an Online Resource

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The SLEEP 2011 abstract supplement contains all abstracts to be presented at the meeting in June, and is only available online on the SLEEP 2011 website and the journal SLEEP website. More than 1,000 abstracts are scheduled to be presented this year in Minneapolis as scientific oral presentations and poster presentations.

CMS Implementation of Provider Enrollment Provisions

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Feb. 2, 2011, edition of the Federal Register outlined a number of new requirements for CMS providers and suppliers. The final rule, which took effect March 25, 2011 included new requirements for the screening process, application fees and temporary moratoria.

Crash rates may be higher for teen drivers who start school earlier

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Early school start times may promote sleep loss and daytime sleepiness, which can reduce the alertness of teen drivers. Chronic sleep restriction is a common problem among teens. During adolescence, a biological change shifts the typical onset of sleepiness later at night. This delay can make it a challenge for teens to get enough sleep when they have to wake up early for school.

Worldsleep 2011 to go Ahead as Planned in Kyoto, Japan

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

World Sleep 2011 will be held October 16-20, 2011, in Kyoto, Japan. In a special message last week, Ron Grunstein, MD, PhD, President of the World Sleep Federation, reassured the sleep medicine community about the perceived risks associated with travel to Japan.

New Free Online Learning Module: "Interpretation of Non-Respiratory Sleep Studies"

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The second multimedia presentation included in the AASM Online Learning Center April preview - “Interpretation of Non-Respiratory Sleep Studies” - provides sleep medicine professionals with an understanding of methods for interpretation of non-respiratory sleep studies. Using a case-based format, Dr. Phyllis Zee of the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine describes the use of sleep studies to diagnose patients with non-respiratory sleep disorders and recognize non-respiratory abnormalities.

Poll Finds Strong Public Support for Research Funding

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Results of a poll commissioned by Research!America show that 78 percent of Americans think federal funding for health research is important for job creation and the economy.

NIH and AHRQ Focus on Obesity Research and Prevention

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health released a new Strategic Plan for NIH Obesity Research to combat the obesity epidemic by encouraging diverse scientific investigations. The plan emphasizes the development of practical solutions by moving science from the laboratory to clinical trials, and it is designed to help target efforts and resources in areas most likely to help.

CMS Open Forum on the Physician Quality Reporting System is April 14

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services will host a Special Open Door Forum on the 2011 Physician Quality Reporting System and E-Prescribing Incentive programs. The live conference call will take place on Thursday, April 14, 2011 and will feature three presentations that focus on success stories.

AMA Report Examines Economic Impact of Office-Based Physicians

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The American Medical Association's Advocacy Resource Center has released a report that examines the impact that office-based physicians have on the economy.

AASM Congratulates New Fellow Members

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor that recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field. The AASM is pleased to welcome new Fellow Members.

SALE: 25% Discount on Several Top Selling Products for Sleep Technologists

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Equip sleep technologists and technicians at your facility with the resources needed for them to excel by purchasing discounted educational material from the AASM during the month of April. Discount items include the AASM Scoring Manual, The Essentials of Sleep Technology manual, Essentials of Sleep Technology lecture slide sets and more.

Final Days to Register for Full-Day AASM Workshop on Scoring

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Saturday, April 16, 2011, the AASM will host a Scoring of Sleep Workshop at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois. This comprehensive workshop will provide participants with the necessary background and explanations to understand the rules of the AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events. The workshop is ideal for both sleep technicians and technologists as well as physicians who wish to gain a basic review of scoring.

IN THE NEWS: Infant Sleep, OSA & Mortality, and Short Sleepers

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Studies in the April issue of the journal SLEEP received media attention recently. Time and Consumer Reports reported on a new Web-based program that can help parents get their infants and toddlers to sleep. WebMD covered a study about sleep-disordered breathing and daytime sleepiness. And the Wall Street Journal brought attention to short sleepers.

Make the Most of SLEEP 2011 & Extend your Stay in Minneapolis

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Plan to take some extra time before or after SLEEP 2011 to enjoy activities found in Minneapolis, Minn. and the greater Twin Cities region. Attractions include an internationally recognized theater scene, the Mall of America and the Minnesota Twins Major League Baseball team at the brand-new Target Field.

AASM Board of Directors Election Results

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine thanks all of the members who voted in the 2011 AASM election congratulates members who were elected by membership to the board of directors. Board of directors will begin their terms in June at SLEEP 2011 in Minneapolis, Minn.

NIH Grant Opportunity Involves Circadian Rhythms & Alcohol-Induced Tissue Damage

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A funding opportunity announcement (FOA) issued by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) encourages Research Project Grant (R01) applications (PA-11-178) and Exploratory/Developmental Grant (R21) applications (PA-11-179) that propose to conduct mechanistic studies of the circadian rhythms involved in alcohol-induced organ damage

AMA Introduces New CPT E/M Quick Reference Mobile App

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The American Medical Association introduced a new mobile application that helps you easily determine the appropriate CPT Evaluation and Management (E/M) code for use for billing. Featuring both decision-tree logic and quick search options, the application allows you to digitally track codes and email them anywhere.

SLEEP 2011: Spotlight on Scientific Oral Presentations and Invited Lecturer Presentations

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2011 will feature more than 1,000 scientific abstracts presented throughout the meeting in oral and poster format. During the scientific oral presentations, investigators will give 15-minute presentations covering their latest research and new ideas. In addition, several senior level investigators/clinicians present one-hour lectures covering their area of expertise in invited lecturer presentations at SLEEP 2011.

Apply for Recognition as an AASM Comprehensive Academic Sleep Program of Distinction

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

AASM Comprehensive Academic Sleep Programs of Distinction recognizes academic sleep programs that have demonstrated excellence though compliance with rigorous standards in the areas of clinical service, educational mission and research accomplishments. Recognized programs can compete, on an annual basis, for a one-year grant from the American Sleep Medicine Foundation that supports a fellow for training in sleep medicine research. All recognized programs also will receive, on an annual basis, a grant that provides travel assistance to the SLEEP meeting for one fellow.

CNN Examines the Sleep and Alertness Challenges of Night-Shift Workers

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A recent article on CNN.com described how night-shift workers struggle to sleep during the day and stay awake at night. Interest in the subject soared last week when an air-traffic controller at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport admitted that he fell asleep on the job, forcing two airplanes to land after midnight with no assistance from the control tower.

Earn CME Credit Online: April Issue of SLEEP

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The April 1 issue of the journal SLEEP will be available Friday and AASM members have access the full text of each article. Members may earn continuing medical education (CME) credits online by reading designated articles and taking the online CME exams within one year of the date of publication.

FREE Online Learning Module "Insomnia: Etiology, Evaluation and Treatment" Available in the AASM Online Learning Center

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is offering select streaming multimedia presentations for FREE, as part of a month-long AASM Online Learning Center preview. The first online learning module available through this offer will be The Basics of Sleep Medicine – Insomnia: Etiology, Evaluation and Treatment. Developed and presented by Dr. Richard Rosenberg, PhD, AASM Director of Professional Education and Training, this presentation reviews the fundamentals of insomnia including pathophysiology, evaluation, diagnosis and treatment.

New CD-ROM Recording of AASM Board Review Course Available

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Now available from the AASM and SRS is a CD-ROM archive of the full content from recent courses. The three courses - Board Review for the Sleep Specialist, Intensive Scoring Review and Basic Science of Sleep for the Sleep Specialist - are ideal for physicians planning to take the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) sleep medicine certification exam this November.

ANALYSIS: Medicare Payments for Physician Services in 2012

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Between now and Jan. 1, 2012, physicians can anticipate frequent speculation from industry analysts about how Congress will address the next scheduled reduction to physician Medicare payments. With the Medicare sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula scheduled to cut the 2012 payments by approximately 29.5 percent, Congress will have to impose another short-term fix or develop a permanent solution.

Risk of Death is High in Older Adults with Sleep Apnea and Daytime Sleepiness

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Longitudinal study suggests that sleep apnea and excessive daytime sleepiness combine to cause an elevation in mortality risk.

Safety and Efficacy of Hypnotic Drugs Workshop is May 10-11

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Division of Neurology Products, in conjunction with the Pharmaceutical Education & Research Institute Inc. (PERI), will host the Safety and Efficacy of Hypnotic Drugs workshop May 10-11, 2011, at the Bethesda Marriott Hotel in Bethesda, Md.

Apply by April 1 for Summer Institute to Increase Diversity in Behavioral Medicine & Sleep Disorders Research

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Applications are being accepted for the SUNY Downstate PRIDE Summer Institute Program to Increase Diversity in Behavioral Medicine and Sleep Disorders Research. The PRIDE Summer Institute, which is an all-expense-paid research career advancement opportunity sponsored by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), will support 12 trainees from underrepresented minority backgrounds and those with disabilities.

NIH Seeks Public Comment on Potential Programs to Facilitate Neuroscience Research

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Clinical and Translational Science Award program (CTSA) Neuroscience Research Trans-NIH Workgroup is seeking public comment on potential programs to facilitate neuroscience research using existing or new research resources (Notice Number NOT-NS-11-007).

AADSM Launches Dental Sleep Medicine Facility Accreditation Program

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Dental Sleep Medicine Facility Accreditation is a voluntary process create to evaluate and recognize competency and delivery of optimal care to dental sleep medicine patients. The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) is now accepting applications.

CMS to Host National Provider Education Calls for Electronic Health Record Incentive Program

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will hold two national provider education calls for professionals and hospitals about registration for the Medicare Electronic Health Records (EHR) Incentive Program.

Office of the Inspector General Publishes 2011 Work Plan

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The OIG work plan for fiscal year 2011 describes audits and evaluations underway and under development. The plan provides readers with insight into the main areas under investigation by the OIG and outlines the OIG's enforcement and compliance activities. Login to find out the sleep-related initiatives included in the work plan for 2011.

Apply for ASMF Humanitarian Projects Award by Friday, April 1

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A new grant opportunity from the American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) is the Humanitarian Projects Award, which addresses sleep problems or sleep education needs in disadvantaged populations. Applicants should be physicians, allied health-care providers, hospitals, schools or non-profit community or civic groups. The application deadline is April 1, 2011.

SLEEP 2011: Spotlight on Discussion Groups and Clinical Workshops

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2011 discussion groups are forums for informal presentations of a specific topic, which may include conversations on controversial subjects or pro/con discussions and presentations, while clinical workshops may include presentations or discussions of controversial clinical topics or difficult clinical situations that demonstrate the critical thinking process in clinical sleep medicine.

Internet Program Reduces Infant and Toddler Sleep Problems, Helps Moms Sleep

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Free online tool provides parents with access to customized sleep tips and support. The Internet-based intervention is effective at reducing infant and toddler sleep disturbances, as well as providing positive, indirect benefits for maternal sleep, mood and confidence.

Vote for Your Primary Section Chair Before Friday, March 25

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In order to give each section the best opportunity to contribute to the AASM, section chairs are elected. These chairs serve to fulfill the section’s mandate, spearhead the selection and implementation of the section’s annual initiatives, facilitate the section’s annual meeting and represent section members to the Board of Directors.

Dr. Howard Bauchner Named New Editor-in-Chief of JAMA

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The American Medical Association announced that Howard C. Bauchner, MD, will become the next JAMA Editor-in-Chief on July, 1, 2011, making him the 16th editor in the journal's 127-year history.

CDC Reports that U.S. Life Expectancy Continues to Rise

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Life expectancy at birth increased to 78.2 years in 2009, up slightly from 78.0 years in 2008, according to the preliminary 2009 death statistics reported by the CDC's National Center for Health Statistics.

AASM Acknowledges March Contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

AASM Seeks Example Grant Applications for Mock Review Sessions at Young Investigator Research Forum

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM needs members to submit the scientific portion of one of your sleep-related R01 or R21 grant applications for use during the mock grant review session at the third-annual AASM Young Investigator Research Forum in April.

Medicare Primary Care Incentive Payment (PCIP) Eligibility Data Updated on Contractor Websites

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Physicians who are identified by Medicare as primary care physicians with a specific percent of Part B allowed charges for primary care services are eligible for a 10 percent bonus payment. Physicians wishing to confirm eligibility must visit contractor websites.

Physicians Scheduled To Receive 29.5% Medicare Pay Cut in 2012

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Medicare officials recently announced that physicians face a 29.5-percent cut in Medicare reimbursement in 2012 unless lawmakers act to prevent the reduction.

Download Application for Out of Center Sleep Testing Accreditation

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep service entities interested applying for the new AASM program, Accreditation of Out of Center Sleep Testing for Adult Patients, may download the application available in the Accreditation section of this website. Sleep disorders centers currently accredited by the AASM only need to complete and return the attestation form previously sent by e-mail.

IOM Recognizes Sufficient Sleep as a Key Objective in “Healthy People 2020”

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In December the AASM reported that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services included four sleep health objectives in “Healthy People 2020.” The new 10-year plan covers 42 topics and nearly 600 objectives for health promotion and disease prevention. This week the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies announced that it had identified one of these sleep health objectives as one of the 24 key objectives in the plan.

SLEEP 2011: Spotlight on Meet the Professor and Lunch and Learn Sessions

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Each year throughout the meeting, the APSS offers several lunch sessions, which fill up quickly. Meet the professor sessions feature an expert in the field leading an informal discussion on a topic within their area of expertise, and lunch and learn: pro/con debate sessions feature two experts debating two sides of a current topic in sleep medicine or sleep research.

LAST CALL: Submit SLEEP 2011 Late-Breaking Abstracts by Wednesday, March 23

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Late-breaking abstracts will be presented during a scientific session on Wednesday, June 15, 2011, from 12:15 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. Up to five abstracts will be accepted for oral presentations in which authors will present their high-quality emerging data found between December 2010 and March 2011.

AASM Urges Members to Support Disaster Relief Efforts in Japan

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM board of directors expresses its deepest sympathies for the people of Japan, who endured a devastating earthquake and tsunami late last week. A rapid and generous response by the sleep medicine community is needed today to provide people with the basic necessities for survival.

Safety and Efficacy of Hypnotic Drugs Workshop is May 10-11

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The FDA Division of Neurology Products in conjunction with PERI will host the Safety and Efficacy of Hypnotic Drugs worshop in Bethseda, MD. The workshop will focus on insomnia, study population selections, end-points and efficacy assessments. The second day will center on the safety of insomnia drugs, in particular on the assessment of next-day function, including psychomotor vigilance and driving testing.

Moderate Sleep Loss Impairs Vigilance and Attention in Children with ADHD

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The daytime performance of children with ADHD deteriorated to the clinical range of inattention after mean nightly sleep loss of about 55 minutes for six nights. The results suggest that even moderate sleep loss could have a negative effect on the academic performance of children with ADHD.

Apply for ASMF Humanitarian Projects Award by April 1

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The ASMF is interested in projects that develop or promote novel approaches to address human suffering in under-served populations as it relates to inadequate or non-restorative sleep, or sleep disorders in disadvantaged groups. Awards will be granted for one-year in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $17,000.

AASM Seeks Example Grant Applications for Mock Review Sessions at Young Investigator Research Forum

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Young Investigator Research forum helps shape careers in clinical and translational sleep medicine research by interacting with NIH program officers as well as seasoned clinical sleep scientists over two days.

Deadline Approaching for Full-Day AASM Workshop on Scoring

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Scoring of Sleep Workshop, scheduled for April 16, 2011, will provide the necessary background and explanations to understand the rules of the AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events, and is ideal for both sleep technicians and technologists as well as physicians new to the field who wish to gain a basic review of scoring.

Submit Membership Section Chair Applications by Wednesday, March 16

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is accepting interest forms for the chair of the following eight membership sections: Childhood Sleep Disorders and Development, Circadian Rhythms, Insomnia, Movement Disorders, Narcolepsy, Parasomnias, Sleep Deprivation and Sleep Related Breathing Disoders.

Coding Corner: New Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Search Guide

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Coding page has been expanded to include a Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Search Guide. This illustrated guide includes step-by-step instructions for looking up pricing information for a single HCPCS code or a series of HCPCS codes.

AASM Urges Congress to Maintain Appropriate NIH Funding Levels

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Implementing across-the-board budget cuts could stop prominent, patient-oriented research in mid-stream, creating a gap in the research field. The AASM supports funding for the National Institute of Health that will allow the careful continuation of the current research agenda, and urged Congress to recognize the value of the NIH as an incubator for advancing scientific and health-care knowledge.

SLEEP 2011: Spotlight on Postgraduate Courses

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Prior to the SLEEP 2011 general session, 13 full-day and half-day postgraduate courses will be presented to provide attendees with comprehensive coverage of important topics in sleep medicine and sleep research.

Out of Center Sleep Testing Accreditation Fee Structure Explained

Mon, 07 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM has received questions requesting clarification of the fee structure for the Out of Center Sleep Testing Accreditation program and has provided more details about the fee structure for both centers that are accredited by the AASM as well as sleep service entities pursuing accreditation as a provider of OCST.

Invitation to Participate in the International Collaboration of Sleep Apnea Cardiovascular Trials (INCOSACT) Researchers

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The INternational COllaboration of Sleep Apnea Cardiovascular Trials (INCOSACT) Researchers is a newly formed collaboration of investigators interested in conducting randomized controlled clinical trials of sleep apnea treatment interventions that aim to adjudicate cardiovascular disease (CVD) event information.

House Oversight Subcommittee Examines Medicare Fraud

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations examined a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report, which noted that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has estimated fiscal year 2010 improper payments for Medicare fee-for-service and Medicare Advantage of almost $48 billion.

AASM Congratulates New Fellow Members & Recognizes Top Member

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM also congratulates the top Member-Get-A-Member Campaign recruiters for the month of February. These individuals are contributing to the growth of the organization by reaching out to their professional colleagues and encouraging them to join the AASM. For each new member recruited, these individuals will receive a $15 Recognition of Excellence Money (REM) Voucher that can be used toward AASM resources including product purchases, course registrations and more.

Last Chance to Register for the AASM’s A-STEP Introductory Course

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On March 21-April 1, 2011, the AASM will host its first Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program (A-STEP) Introductory Course at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). This 80-hour program is ideal for technicians new to the field who wish to receive a comprehensive review of the information required to begin a successful career in the profession of sleep technology.

March SALE on AASM Patient Education Products

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

During the month of March 2011, AASM members can save 20% on patient education products including Patient Education Brochure Packs, Welcome to the Sleep Lab videos and Patient Surveys.

CDC Issues Reports on Unhealthy Sleep-Related Behaviors & Short Sleep Duration

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In Friday's issue of the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported on an analysis of data from a new sleep module added to the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) in 2009.

Earn CME Credit Online: March Issue of SLEEP

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members have access to the full text of each article in the March 1 issue of the journal SLEEP when you log in on the website. You also can earn continuing medical education (CME) credits online by reading designated articles and taking the online CME exams within one year of the date of publication.

AASM Comments on Washington State Health Technology Assessment of Sleep Apnea

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM noted that there is an essential patient care benefit in identifying people with OSA and providing the related treatment for this chronic medical condition, outlined some of the connections between OSA and comorbid conditions, and emphasized that the sleep physician has an essential role in the diagnosis and treatment of OSA.

Advanced Registration Deadline for New AASM Sleep Center Manager Boot Camp is Monday, March 7

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep center managers and senior-level technologists interested in learning more about the unique business practices associated with running a sleep center should attend the AASM’s new 3½-day interactive and tool-driven course, Sleep Center Manager Boot Camp, to be held April 4-7, 2011, at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois.

AASM & SRS Urge U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs to Focus on Sleep Disorders in Gulf War Veterans

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

a representative of the AASM and the Sleep Research Society (SRS) appeared before the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Research Advisory Committee on Gulf War Veterans’ Illnesses and submitted a letter urging the Committee to focus on sleep care research associated with the nation’s veterans.

SLEEP 2011: Spotlight on Symposia

Fri, 04 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Leaders in the sleep field are slated to present symposia sessions, which are two-hour sessions focusing on the latest data and ideas in sleep research and sleep medicine. Click ahead to see a listing of some of the symposia being offered at SLEEP 2011.

Vote for AASM Board of Directors Before Monday, March 7

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine invites member to vote online for the 2011 election for AASM leadership. This year, members will determine the AASM President-elect and four directors at-large on the AASM Board of Directors

Moderate Sleep Loss Impairs Vigilance and Sustained Attention in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A new study in the March 1 issue of the journal SLEEP indicates that the ability of children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder to remain vigilant and attentive deteriorated significantly after losing less than one hour of nightly sleep for a week. The study suggests that even moderate reductions in sleep duration can affect neurobehavioral functioning, which may have a negative impact on the academic performance of children with ADHD.

Poor Sleep Quality is a Pain for People with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the Feb. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that poor sleep quality correlated with higher levels of depressive symptoms, greater pain severity, increased fatigue, and greater functional disability in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. WebMD reports that the findings are consistent with previous studies that suggested sleep disruption may lower the threshold for pain. Read the AASM press release.

NIH Announces Availability of a Dataset from the Longitudinal Cleveland Family Study

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The NIH database of Genotypes and Phenotypes (dbGaP) resource program has announced the availability of a shared, controlled-access dataset from the longitudinal Cleveland Family Study for analyses by approved investigators. The dataset includes > 1,400 genotypes and > 2,300 data variables from as many as four sleep apnea evaluations over 16 years.

SOCIAL MEDIA: Stay Connected with the AASM

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

AASM Acknowledges February Contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Final Days for SALE on Personalized Patient Education Brochure Orders

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Until February 28, 2011, AASM individual and center members have the opportunity to save $20 on each pack of 100 personalized patient education brochures ordered from the AASM (a savings of more than 30 percent!).

AASM Announces Added Value for Individuals Registered for a Board Review Course

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Individuals who register before March 14 for one of the AASM's Board Review for the Sleep Specialist courses will receive free access to three 200-Epoch Scoring Review online learning modules and Online Practice Exams.

SLEEP 2011 Networking Event to Celebrate the APSS 25th Anniversary Meeting

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In celebration of its 25th Anniversary Meeting, the APSS will host the Silver Jubilee networking reception on the evening of Sunday, June 12, 2011, from 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Tickets are $50 per person and include an extensive selection of hors d'oeuvres throughout the evening, two drink tickets and live music.

AASM-Accredited Centers: Submit Attestation Form for Out of Center Sleep Testing Accreditation

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

To receive accreditation for out of center sleep testing, sleep disorders centers currently accredited by the AASM only need to complete and return the attestation form that was previously sent by e-mail to the sleep center’s primary contact.

New Learning Modules from Recent Courses Available on Demand

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The new online learning modules include presentations from AASM courses and workshops such as last week's The Business of Sleep Medicine: Making Medicare More Meaningful in 2011, as well as training modules and lectures covering the basics of sleep medicine.

Only a Few Days Remain to Renew Your AASM Membership for 2011

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

All members who have not yet renewed your 2011 membership must renew by this Monday, Feb. 28, 2011, to keep your membership active as well as to be included in and receive the 2011-2012 Printed Membership Directory.

AASM A-STEP Introductory Course: 80-Hour Course to Cover Essential Information for New Technicians

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program (A-STEP) Introductory Course was developed to provide technicians new to the profession with the fundamental education needed to begin a career in sleep technology.

Participate in Survey about Physicians’ Administrative Burdens

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

An American Medical Association (AMA) survey is giving physicians an opportunity to provide input on rules and regulations that increase their administrative costs and paperwork burden, or that interfere with patient care without a significant benefit to patients and/or the government.

NIH Announces SDB in Pregnancy Grant Opportunity

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The goal of this program is to identify clinically relevant mechanisms of SDB etiology and pathophysiology that will open new avenues to develop therapeutic strategies to reduce the maternal and fetal risks of SDB exposure during pregnancy.

ASMF Announces New Humanitarian Projects Award

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A new grant opportunity from the American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) is the Humanitarian 20 Projects Award, which addresses sleep problems or sleep education needs in disadvantaged populations. The ASMF is particularly interested in projects that develop or promote novel approaches to address human suffering in under-served populations as it relates to inadequate or non-restorative sleep, or sleep disorders in disadvantaged groups.

Earn CME Credit Online: February Issue of JCSM

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members have access to the full text of each article in the Feb. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine when you log in on the website. You also can earn continuing medical education (CME) credits online by reading designated articles and taking the online CME exams within one year of the date of publication. Use the "My CME Credits" page to access your records and print letters of participation.

New Oral Appliance Therapy for OSA LCDs Published

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Recently, the four area DME MACs published draft Local Coverage Determinations (LCDs) addressing oral appliance therapy for obstructive sleep apnea. These four policies took effect Jan. 3, 2011.

SLEEP 2011 Call for Late-Breaking Abstracts

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Abstracts may be submitted from Friday, Feb. 25, to Wednesday, March 23, 2011. Up to five abstracts will be accepted for oral presentations in which authors will present their high-quality emerging data found between December 2010 and March 2011.

Preliminary Program Available Online; SLEEP 2011 General Registration and Housing Now Open

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

General registration and discounted hotel rooms for the meeting are now open to all individuals following the end of the members-only registration period. At present, several sessions are near capacity; register early to ensure that you are able to attend all of your desired sessions.

Apply Today for Out of Center Sleep Testing Accreditation

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep service entities interested in obtaining accreditation as a provider of out of center sleep testing can download the application now available on the AASM website. Sleep disorders centers currently accredited by the AASM should note that they do need to complete the full application to receive accreditation for out of center sleep testing; accredited centers instead must complete an attestation form.

ABMS Sleep Medicine Certification Exam: Final Opportunity for Practice Pathway Applicants

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The 2011 American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) sleep medicine certification exam will be the final opportunity for physicians to apply under the Practice Pathway

2011 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule Summary Overview

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Beginning in November 2010, the AASM sent out regular updates to members related to the 2011 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) Final Rule. To avoid confusion and help clarify payment changes, we have developed an overview of the MPFS Final Rule including a timeline of events, national payment information, instructions for finding local payment information and a glossary of key terms.

AASM 2010 Membership Report Available to Members

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Milestones in 2010 include the opening of the state-of-the-art AASM National Headquarters in Darien, IL, new high points in membership and accreditation, new electronic initiatives and the continual development of educational resources for members.

Poor Sleep Quality is Associated with Greater Disability in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the Feb. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that poor sleep quality correlated with higher levels of depressive symptoms, greater pain severity, increased fatigue, and greater functional disability in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). The study suggests that addressing sleep problems via pharmacological or behavioral interventions may have a critical impact on the health and lives of patients with RA.

Registration Ends for OIG Free Compliance Training Sessions

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The OIG has announced that all spots are full in the six free compliance plan training sessions offered in early 2011. As a response, the OIG will offer a webcast for those unable to attend.

AASM Introduces Accreditation for Out of Center Sleep Testing

Fri, 11 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earning accreditation for out of center sleep testing from the leader in sleep medicine enables sleep medicine providers to offer broader options to your patients and for your facility to gain recognition as a out of center sleep testing provider that meets the highest standards of quality care.

February 28th Deadline for Membership Directory Inclusion

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Members who do not renew by February 28, 2011, will not be included in the directories. If you have not yet renewed your membership for 2011, login to the Members-Only section of the AASM website to renew online or to download a renewal invoice to return via mail or fax.

Final Sleep Medicine Exam under Practice Pathway: AASM Review Course Deadline is February 17, 2011

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Three courses are scheduled for 2011, and the advanced registration deadline to save for the March course in Los Angeles, California is next Thursday, February 17, 2011.

Take Advantage of Hotel Discounts for SLEEP 2011

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

After registering for the meeting, take advantage of discounted hotel room rates by booking your hotel reservation through the SLEEP 2011 Housing Bureau. Room blocks have been reserved at a discounted rate at several conveniently located hotels.

Reprocessing Targeted Medicare Claims for Portions of 2010

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

New legislation and recent corrections to the 2010 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) call for reprocessing of a large volume of Medicare fee-for-service claims. Given this large workload, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is taking steps to ensure that new claims coming into the Medicare program are processed timely and accurately, even as the retroactive adjustments are being made.

HHS to Offer Free Compliance Training Sessions in 2011

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The training sessions are aimed at curbing fraud, waste and abuse in the Medicare and Medicaid programs and features presentations from government experts from the OIG, CMS, United States Attorney’s Offices and State Medicaid Fraud Control Units.

The AASM Recognizes Its Top Member Recruiters

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the AASM’s top Member-Get-A-Member Campaign recruiters for the month of January. These individuals are contributing to the growth of the organization by reaching out to their professional colleagues and encouraging them to join the AASM.

Congratulations New Fellow Member of the AASM

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor which recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field. We are pleased to welcome new Fellow Member Rene Sanchez-Borrero, MD, FAASM.

Member Discounts Offered on AASM Patient Education Brochures

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The offer for a free sampler pack of brochures must be redeemed through the AASM Online Store and must be accompanied by an order for another product; shipping and handling charges apply and the discount may not be combined with any other offer or applied to a previous order.

Courses and Sessions at SLEEP 2011 Projected to Sell Out

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Members are encouraged to take advantage of the members-only registration period and register for SLEEP 2011 early while all sessions are available. With limited space in several postgraduate courses, meet the professor sessions and lunch and learn sessions, it is projected that several of these courses and sessions will sell out quickly.

Office of the Inspector General to Require Fraud and Abuse Compliance Programs

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The HHS Office of the Inspector General issued a regulatory announcement on February 2 of its intent to finalize new Medicare and Medicaid enrollment standards that will establish procedures to better police fraud and abuse in these programs.

Earn CME Credit Online: February Issue of SLEEP

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

You also can earn continuing medical education (CME) credits online by reading designated articles and taking the online CME exams within one year of the date of publication.

Call for Nominations: Sleep Medicine Fellowship Training Directors Council

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Volunteer committee members provide an invaluable service to the organization and its membership by contributing to initiatives and projects that are critical to the continued development of the field. Members also gain professional enrichment through the diverse activities of a committee. The deadline to apply for the SMFDC Steering Committee is February 16, 2011.

Escape the Winter Weather – Attend AASM Courses in San Diego

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Registration for the AASM’s Current Topics in Sleep Medicine and The Business of Sleep Medicine courses will end on Monday, February 14, 2011. Individuals interested in attending one or both of these courses, which will be held at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines in La Jolla, California, must do so on or before this date; on-site registration will not be accepted.

Contractors Revise Local Coverage Determinations for Sleep Studies

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Recently, four Medicare Part B Contractors – National Government Services, Palmetto, Highmark, and Wisconsin Physicians Service – revised local coverage determination (LCD) policies for sleep studies.

HHS Announces Recovery of $4 Billion Stolen from Federal Health Care Programs in 2010

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Monday U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and U.S. Associate Attorney General Thomas J. Perrelli announced a new report showing that the government’s health care fraud prevention and enforcement efforts recovered more than $4 billion in 2010.

New Tools Available to Help with Registration for EHR Incentive Programs

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that new tools are available online to help providers register for the Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Programs.

Apply for Recognition as an AASM Comprehensive Academic Sleep Program of Distinction

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Transition to ICD-10: Version 5010

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Effective Oct. 1, 2013, diagnostic coding in all health-care settings will change from ICD-9 to ICD-10. To accommodate the changes to the code structure resulting from this transition, CMS is requiring an update to the transaction standards used for electronic health-care claims. The current standards, Version 4010/4010A, must be upgraded to Version 5010 by Jan. 1, 2012.

CMS Approves AASM Request for a Medicare Physician Specialty Code for Sleep Medicine

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) notified the AASM that it will be establishing a Medicare physician specialty code for sleep medicine. The letter noted the important work that sleep medicine physicians provide for Medicare beneficiaries and stated that the request submitted by the AASM met all of the criteria for approval.

AASM Accepting Applications for AASM DME Supplier Accreditation

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Facilities interesting in earning AASM DME supplier accreditation can visit the AASM website to view and download the standards and application for this program.

ABSM Announces Sleep Technologist Certification Examination

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

AASM Special Update: ABSM Announces Sleep Technologist Certification Examination

Physician Reimbursement Amendment Added to Health Care Reform Replacement Resolution

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The amendment directs relevant House committees to draft legislation that would permanently change the formula for determining Medicare reimbursement rates for physicians.

ABIM Foundation Offering Grants to Advance Medical Professionalism

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The ABIM Foundation will award up to five grants of $20,000 each in 2011. Grant recipients will participate in a learning network through quarterly teleconferences. The deadline for applications is March 31, 2011.

NIH Offers Grants for Novel Technologies and Scholarly Works

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

One of the appropriate topics listed in the funding opportunity announcements is, “Devices to monitor and facilitate sleep health.” The next application due date for both grants is May 19, 2011.

AASM Acknowledges January Contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

For the January ISR Testing Program, the AASM gratefully acknowledges Embla Systems for contributing software, St. Luke's Hospital of St. Louis for providing sleep records, and Dr. Shahriar Shahzeidi for serving as the second gold standard.

Expert Faculty to Lead New AASM Course for Sleep Center Managers

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM will host a Sleep Center Manager Boot Camp at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois on April 4-7, 2011.

Advanced Registration Deadline for Two Popular AASM Courses is Friday, Jan. 21

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Register on this date to save $300 on registration fees when you register for both courses to be held at Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines in La Jolla, Calif., from Feb. 18 -21, 2011.

Oregon Introduces Bills Punishing Drowsy Drivers with Fines, Imprisonment

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Under both bills, drivers could face hefty fines and even prison time for accidents due to driving while fatigued.

New York Drowsy Driving Legislation Would Amend State Traffic Laws

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Under the two bills, a person who falls asleep while driving or is proven to be without sleep for 24 or more consecutive hours would be considered by state law to be fatigued.

Support the Continuation of AASM Resources by Renewing Membership

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Members must renew by Feb. 28, 2011, to keep their membership active and to be included in and receive a printed copy of the 2011-2012 Membership Directory.

SLEEP 2011 Marks 25th Anniversary Meeting of the APSS

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On June 11–15, 2011, the APSS will celebrate its 25th Anniversary Meeting at the Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis, Minn. Members are encouraged to attend this historic milestone and participate in educational sessions that will highlight the most significant advances in the field. SLEEP 2011 will feature more than 100 sessions and courses covering clinical and research topics as well as more than 1,000 scientific abstracts as oral and poster presentations.

Register for SLEEP 2011

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

From January 18, 2011 through February 13, 2011, members of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, Sleep Research Society and American Association of Sleep Technologists will have exclusive access to register for SLEEP 2011, the 25^th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, LLC (APSS).

AASM Recognizes Top Member Recruiters

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

AASM Submits Comments to HHS & AHRQ Focusing on Sleep and Prevention

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The comment advised that the strategy’s Strategic Directions should be expanded to include healthy sleep, recognizing the reality of poor sleep as a readily identifiable and modifiable risk factor associated with the leading causes of death.

Essential Training for New Technicians Now Offered through the AASM’s A-STEP Introductory Course

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The 80-hour comprehensive program will be held March 21 through April 1, 2011, at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). During the two-week program, participants will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of sleep technology through a mixture of didactic lectures, online learning, practical exercises and observation at a sleep center.

AASM to Offer Full-Day Scoring Workshop

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

On Saturday, April 16, 2011, the AASM will host a Scoring of Sleep Workshop at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). This comprehensive workshop will provide participants with the necessary background and explanations to understand the rules of the AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events and is ideal for both sleep technicians and technologists as well as physicians new to the field who wish to gain a basic review of scoring.

Pre-Order Sale: AASM Board Review for the Sleep Specialist Course CD-ROM

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Individuals who can't make it to the course in March can view more than 25 hours of presentations by purchasing the archived CD-ROM. Pre-order the CD-ROM and save more than 25% on your purchase.

Holiday Hours: AASM National Office Will be Closed Monday, Jan. 17

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM national offices will be closed Monday, Jan. 17 in observance of the federal Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday.

The Transition to ICD-10: What Will Change?

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Effective Oct. 1, 2013, diagnostic coding in all health care settings will change from the International Classification of Diseases Ninth Revision (ICD-9) to the Tenth Revision (ICD-10). Hit the jump to learn the highlights the biggest differences between the ICD-9 and ICD-10.

NIH Announces Grant Opportunity for Education Research in Sleep Health & Sleep-Circadian Biology

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

A funding opportunity announcement issued by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) invites the submission of Education Research (R25) grant applications focused on scientific advances in sleep health and circadian and sleep biology.

SLEEP 2011 Meeting Registration Opens Tuesday, Jan. 18, for Members Only

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

This members-only registration period, which will end Feb. 14, 2011, allows you to gain access to the most popular courses and sessions before they sell out and to reserve your hotel room through the SLEEP Housing Bureau, also opening on Tuesday, Jan. 18, 2011.

New House Budget Rules Impact Funding for Sleep Medicine and Research

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Adopted on Jan. 5, rules package H. Res. 5 revises House operating rules and includes numerous directions for how the House in the 112^th Congress will address budget issues.

Subscribe to SLEEP for Your Kindle Reading Device or Android Phone

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Now you also have a new option of taking SLEEP wherever you go by subscribing to the Kindle edition of the journal for your Kindle wireless reading device or Android phone.

Registration is Open for the Medicare & Medicaid EHR Incentive Programs

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Modern Healthcare reports that the first provider payments have already been issued; participants should register early to get the maximum incentive payments.

Updated Requirements for A-STEP Online Self-Study Modules Took Effect Jan. 1

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Effective Jan. 1, 2011, the AASM Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program (A-STEP) will require the completion of all 18 online A-STEP Self-Study Modules.

AASM Congratulates Dr. Allan Pack for Election to AASM Nominating Committee

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM congratulates Dr. Allan Pack, who has been elected for a two-year term as an at-large member of the AASM Nominating Committee after the recent call for nominations.

Prepare for the ABMS Exam by Attending a 2011 Board Review for the Sleep Specialist Course

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In order to provide members with board preparation resources for this final Practice Pathway exam, the AASM will offer several Board Review for the Sleep Specialist courses leading up to the 2011 exam.

Registration Deadlines Approaching: Important Educational Opportunities Available at AASM Courses this February in La Jolla, Calif.

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Advanced Registration Deadline for the AASM’s Current Topics in Sleep Medicine and The Business of Sleep Medicine courses is Friday, Jan. 21, 2011.

Redesigned AASM Website Features Several New Electronic Resources

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The site features an updated Online Learning Center full of on-demand learning modules developed at AASM courses and workshops as well as created specifically for the site.

Apply for ASMF Awards by Jan. 14: Educational Projects & Strategic Research

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) is committed to supporting the education and training of sleep scientists and is pleased to offer the Educational Projects Award and the Strategic Research Award as part of the ASMF 2011 grant cycle. The submission deadline for these grants is Jan. 14, 2011.

More information about these ASMF awards is available online at www.discoversleep.org. Please direct all questions and inquiries regarding grant opportunities to ASMF Coordinator Lisa Wallis at 630-737-9700 or lwallis@aasmnet.org.

Earn CME Credit Online: January Issue of SLEEP

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members have access to the full text of each article in the Jan. 1 issue of the journal SLEEP when you log in on the website

Special Update: CMS Revises Sleep Medicine CPT Code

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released a revision to the 2011 Physician Fee Schedule that adjusts calculations of the Medicare payment rates. The revision includes adjustments to the conversion factor and fees for services, including sleep medicine codes.

AASM Launches Redesigned Website

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine has given the AASM website a new look for 2011 and has reorganized the site to make it an even more valuable tool for AASM members and other professionals in the sleep field.

2010 State Society Update

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

At the start of this initiative, there were 18 state sleep societies. Currently, there are 43 established state sleep societies.

Florida House Bill 971 Signed into Law, Establishing “Drowsy Driving Prevention Week”

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The bill designates the first week of September as "Drowsy Driving Prevention Week." During the week, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and the Department of Transportation are encouraged to educate the law enforcement community and the public about the relationship between fatigue and driving performance.

Hawaii Senate Bill 2600 Signed into Law, Providing Exemption for Sleep Technologists

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Hawaii was one of two states (with Alaska) that did not have statutory language addressing the education or training requirements for either sleep technologists or respiratory therapists.

Virginia House Bill 725 Signed by Governor: Establishes Licensure for Sleep Technologists

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Virginia is now the ninth jurisdiction to provide sleep technologists a specific licensure/certification pathway. Other jurisdictions that have licensure/certification include: California, Louisiana, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Tennessee and Washington D.C.

California Proposed Regulations Addressing the Certification of Sleep Technologists

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In August, the Medical Board of California (Board) issued proposed regulations outlining the educational and training requirements a sleep technologist must complete to obtain the designation of “certified polysomnographic technologist” by the Board. The regulations execute Senate Bill 132 (SB 132) which was signed into law on October 23, 2009.

New Hampshire Proposed Regulations Addressing the Licensure of Sleep Technologists

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The New Hampshire Respiratory Care Practice Act contains statutory language which allows the state Respiratory Care Board (“Board”) to have “the authority” to adopt rules specifying the scope of practice for registered polysomnographic technologists.” This past September, the Board issued proposed regulatory language outlining the scope of practice for sleep technologists, and detailing the educational and training requirements a sleep technologist needs to complete to obtain a license.

Tennessee Board of Respiratory Care Regulation for Third Pathway

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

In June, the Tennessee Board of Respiratory Care (TBRC) issued an emergency regulation outlining the specific requirements a respiratory therapist must complete to perform sleep care services pursuant to the Tennessee Polysomnography Practice Act.

Oregon Respiratory Therapist Licensing Board’s (ORTLB) Proposed Sleep Laboratory Exemption

Mon, 03 Jan 2011 00:00:00 -0500

The purpose of the proposal was to develop regulatory language which would allow unlicensed individuals to practice certain areas of “respiratory care” within a sleep lab.

CMS Publishes Change to Conversion Factor

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In an Emergency Update to the CY 2011 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) Database published Dec. 29, 2010, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) revised the conversion factor from the December 2010 rate of $36.8729 to a new rate of $33.9764 effective Jan. 1, 2011.

Study shows that CPAP therapy reduces fatigue, increases energy in patients with sleep apnea

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Patients with obstructive sleep apnea often report that they feel like “a new person” after beginning treatment with continuous positive airway pressure therapy. A new study in the Jan. 1 issue of the journal SLEEP provides objective evidence to support these anecdotal reports, showing that three weeks of CPAP therapy significantly reduced fatigue and increased energy in patients with OSA.

2011 Call for Nominations for the Board of Directors

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AHRQ Announces New Patient Safety & Medical Liability Reform Funding Opportunities

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) recently announced two new funding opportunities for 2011. The Patient Safety and Medical Liability Reform Demonstration Projects (PAR-11-025) and the Patient Safety and Medical Liability Reform Planning Projects (PAR-11-023) support demonstration grants and planning grants that focus on: putting patient safety first and working to reduce preventable injuries; fostering better communication between doctors and their patients; ensuring that patients are compensated in a fair and timely manner for medical injuries, while also reducing the incidence of frivolous lawsuits; and reducing liability premiums. Standard application dates apply; the expiration date for both opportunities is Jan. 8, 2014.

AASM Acknowledges December Contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AASM Announces Holiday Hours for the National Office

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The national offices of the AASM, Sleep Research Society, Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC, American Board of Sleep Medicine, American Association of Sleep Technologists, and American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine will be closed for the holidays on Friday, Dec. 24 (re-opening Monday, Dec. 27, at 8 a.m. CST) and Friday, Dec. 31 (re-opening Monday, Jan. 3, at 8 a.m. CST).

President Obama Signs “The Medicare and Medicaid Extenders Act of 2010” into Law

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Wednesday President Obama signed into law “The Medicare and Medicaid Extenders Act of 2010” (HR 4994), which will extend current Medicare reimbursement rates until Jan. 1, 2012.

The law prevents the scheduled reduction to the overall rate of physician reimbursement for services provided to Medicare beneficiaries. The conversion factor, one of the key elements of the Medicare payment formula, will remain at $36.87 for 2011.

Broaden Your Professional Interests: Volunteer for an AASM Committee

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine invites members to apply participate on a standing committee by December 27, 2010

NCCAM Clinical Digest Focuses on Sleep and Complementary & Alternative Medicine

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The December 2010 issue of the NCCAM Clinical Digest summarizes what is known about some of the complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches that people use for insomnia, including herbs, melatonin and related supplements, and other CAM approaches.

Sleep Disorders Research Advisory Board Meeting is Friday, Dec. 10

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The National Center on Sleep Disorders Research (NCSDR) Sleep Disorders Research Advisory Board will continue a discussion of the NIH Sleep Research Plan, host a guest presentation on “Sleep and Aviation Noise” and discuss reports from ad hoc consultant working groups during a board meeting from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, Dec. 10, 2010.

Legislation Clarifying the Application of the “Red Flags” Rule Clears Congress

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Nov. 30, the Senate passed bipartisan legislation, the “Red Flag Clarification Act of 2010” (S. 3827) by unanimous consent. The House passed the measure Dec. 7, and it has been sent to the President for approval.

New AASM Course to Provide Sleep Center Managers with Comprehensive Information and Take-Home Tools

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On April 4–7, 2011, the AASM will host a Sleep Center Manager Boot Camp at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago). The intensive 3½ day course has been developed to provide center managers and those interested in learning more about management with an interactive, tailored review of the unique business practices associated with running a sleep center.

Updated Requirements for A-STEP Online Self-Study Modules Take Effect Jan. 1

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Effective Jan. 1, 2011, the AASM Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program (A-STEP) will require the completion of all 18 online A-STEP Self-Study Modules: the 14 modules that have been required since the program’s inception along with four additional scoring modules that were introduced in 2009 as a program supplement.

Updated Requirements for A-STEP Online Self-Study Modules Take Effect Jan. 1

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Deadline for SLEEP 2011 Abstract Submission is Dec. 15

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2011 marks the 25th Anniversary Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS). Be a part of this historic meeting by presenting your latest research as a scientific oral or poster presentation. The deadline to submit your completed abstract(s) through the meeting’s website is Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2010.

Limited Time Remains to Take Advantage of 2011 Membership Renewal Offers

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members must renew their membership by Dec. 31, 2010, to receive 2011 renewal offers.

Information on Sleep Medicine Codes 95800 and 95801

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Published in the 2011 Physician Fee Schedule is information on payment for sleep medicine codes, including national values for physician work, practice expense and professional liability insurance RVUs. The new values for the RVUs are effective January 1, 2011.

Senate Approves 1-Year Delay to Medicare Payment Cuts for Physicians

Thu, 09 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Wednesday the Senate unanimously approved by voice vote a bipartisan bill (HR 4994) that would delay scheduled cuts, which were the result of the SGR, to physicians' Medicare payments for one year.

Senators Reach Agreement on SGR Proposal

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Monday evening, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.), Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.), Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.), and Finance Committee Ranking Member Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) reached a tentative consensus to stave off the proposed cuts to payments physicians receive for services provided to Medicare beneficiaries.

HHS Includes Sleep Health Objectives in New "Healthy People 2020" Initiative

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Thursday the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services unveiled Healthy People 2020, the nation’s new 10-year goals and objectives for health promotion and disease prevention.

AASM Recognizes the 2010 Member-Get-A-Member Campaign Winner and Top November Member Recruiters

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is pleased to announce that Pratap Saraf, MD, FAASM, is the 2010 Member-Get-A-Member Campaign winner, receiving a complimentary 2011 course registration.

Registration Opens for Three Spring 2011 Courses to be Held at the AASM National Office

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Registration for these courses will be limited to ensure that attendees receive time to interact with faculty and other attendees; register early to reserve your space.

Apply for ASMF Awards by Jan. 14: Educational Projects & Strategic Research

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

December Issue of SLEEP: Earn CME Credit Online, Read Media Coverage

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members have access to the full text of each article in the Dec. 1 issue of the journal SLEEP when you log in on the website. You also can earn continuing medical education (CME) credits online by reading designated articles and taking the online CME exams within one year of the date of publication.

Save on Top-Selling Products during the AASM Educational Product Year-End Sale

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Complete your sleep medicine reference library this December during the AASM’s 2010 Year-End Product Sale, which allows you to take advantage of 20% savings on the AASM’s top-selling products.

Deadline for SLEEP 2011 Session Proposals Has Been Extended

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS) has extended the deadline to submit a session proposal for SLEEP 2011 until Monday, Dec. 6, 2010, at 8 a.m. Central Time.

AASM Special Update: More Information on Physician Payments the Sleep Medicine RVUs

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Congress has passed a series of short-term fixes – the most recent earlier this week – but has yet to develop a long-term solution.

2011 Physician Fee Schedule: Final Rule Released

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The final version of the 2011 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule was released by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Monday. The RVU values for sleep medicine codes are unchanged from the display copy of the Final Rule. The AASM is reviewing the Final Rule in detail and will provide members with updated information shortly.

House of Representatives Votes on Physician Payment Legislation

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Act extends the current conversion factor through Dec. 31, 2010, and delays a cut in reimbursement for services provided to Medicare beneficiaries that was scheduled for December 1. The Act now goes to the White House, and it is expected President Obama will sign the bill.

Sleep Code Payment Explanation

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Terms and payment information under the 2011 CMS Final Rule, effective January 1, 2011

Sleepless soldiers: Study suggests that military deployment affects sleep patterns

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Study is the first to examine sleep patterns in relation to deployment among all branches of the U.S. military.

From AASM President Dr. Patrick Strollo, Nov. 24

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On behalf of the Board of Directors, I thank all members for their interest in the 2011 Physician Fee Schedule and involvement with the AASM Member Action Network. We appreciate the efforts of many of our members who have reached out to their members of Congress and voiced concern about the proposed cuts.

Deadline for SLEEP 2011 Session Proposals is Wednesday, Dec. 1

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Individuals interested in coordinating a SLEEP 2011 postgraduate course, symposium, discussion group or clinical workshop must submit their completed session proposal(s) through the meeting’s website at www.sleepmeeting.org on or before the deadline of Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2010.

Holiday Hours: AASM National Office Will be Closed Nov. 25-26

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In observance of the Thanksgiving holiday, the national offices will be closed Thursday and Friday, Nov. 25-26, and will reopen Monday, Nov. 29, at 8 a.m. CST.

Loud snoring and insomnia symptoms predict the development of the metabolic syndrome

Tue, 23 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Study provides the first prospective evidence to support a directional link between common sleep complaints and incident metabolic syndrome.

Serve as At-Large Member on the AASM Nominating Committee

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

As outlined in the bylaws, the Nominating Committee has been expanded to five members: the current President, the President-elect, the Immediate Past President, and two at-large members elected by the membership. For the first year (2011) of the revised nomination process, the Chair of the Membership Sections Committee will serve as one of the at-large members of the Nominating Committee and the second at-large member will be elected by the membership for a two-year term.

Senate Approves Bill to Postpone Payment Cuts to January

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

November 30 House vote still needed to stave off projected cuts scheduled for December 1

Message From President Dr. Patrick Strollo - Nov. 17

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Congress has convened a “lame duck” session this week to resolve outstanding legislative issues. It is critical that both the House of Representatives and the Senate take action this week to forestall the looming cuts to our payments for critical health care we provide to Medicare beneficiaries. In a letter to members of the House of Representatives and Senate, the AASM has urged Congress to pass legislation that prevents the reduction to Medicare payments.

Archive of Messages from AASM President Dr. Patrick Strollo

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Every Wednesday, AASM President Dr. Patrick Strollo provides members with an update of Congressional action regarding the 2011 Physician Fee Schedule and the AASM’s ongoing action plan.

Sleep and Circadian Biology DataBlitz is Monday, Nov. 15

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Sleep and Circadian Biology DataBlitz at Neuroscience 2010, the 40th annual meeting of the Society for Neuroscience, is Monday, Nov. 15, 2010, from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. in Ballroom Salon B at the San Diego Marriott Hotel and Marina. No admission is charged and no registration is needed.

Sleep Disorders Research Advisory Board: Public Conference Call is Friday, Nov. 12

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The National Center on Sleep Disorders Research (NCSDR) Sleep Disorders Research Advisory Board will discuss the NIH Sleep Research Plan and reports from ad hoc consultant working groups during a public telephone conference call from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., Friday, Nov. 12, 2010.

Oregon Respiratory Care Board Issues Temporary Rule for Sleep Facilities

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Oregon Respiratory Care Board (RCB) has issued a temporary rule defining the services that may be provided in an accredited sleep facility by someone who does not hold a state license to practice respiratory care.

AASM Acknowledges November Contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Volunteer by Nov. 30 as a Host Site for Mini-Fellowship Program for International Scholars

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Expert Faculty to Speak at AASM The Business of Sleep Medicine Course

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Feb. 20–21, 2011, the AASM will host The Business of Sleep Medicine course at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines in La Jolla, Calif. The course, which will review numerous aspects of sleep center business, will feature 14 distinguished faculty

Look for Your Mailed 2011 Membership Renewal Invoice

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Renewal invoices were recently mailed to AASM members to provide the option to renew your membership via mail or fax. Members also can renew immediately online on the AASM website. Renew before Dec. 31, 2010, to take advantage of 2011 early-bird renewal offers (see your renewal invoice for further details).

AASM Reviewing 2011 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

the AASM is conducting a comprehensive review of the 2011 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule and will provide members with an analysis very soon

Letter From President Dr. Patrick Strollo on the 2011 Physician Fee Schedule

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) is evaluating the 2011 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule in its entirety and will provide members with a detailed analysis.

Fall Back Into Standard Time with an Extra Hour of Sleep

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 00:00:00 -0500

November 7 marks the return of daylight standard time. On the night of the time change, Saturday, November 6, remember to turn your clocks back one hour.

Study Examines Physician Wages Across Specialties

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the Oct. 25 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine compared wages across broad and narrow categories of physician specialties. The cross-sectional study analyzed data from 6,381 physicians providing patient care in the 2004-2005 Community Tracking Study. Results show that wages for surgery, internal medicine, pediatric subspecialties and other specialties were higher than for primary care specialties.

Physicians Weigh Options as Scheduled Medicare Reductions Approach

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Almost 50 percent of medical practices say that refusing to accept new Medicare patients is one of the business considerations currently under discussion due to reimbursement uncertainty, according to a recent report from the Medical Group Management Association.

NIH Revises Application Due Dates for ACCORD Follow-Up Grant Applications

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) have issued a funding opportunity announcement (FOA) encouraging Research Project Grant (R01) applications from institutions/organizations that propose studies that either explore mechanisms of outcomes or other clinical measures using the stored biospecimens from the Action to Control Cardiovascular Disease (ACCORD) participants, or that propose studies to collect new observational data in the ACCORD follow-up study.

Wall Street Journal Publishes Overview of RUC Process

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Oct. 27 edition of the Wall Street Journal published an article entitled, “Physician Panel Prescribes the Fees Paid by Medicare”, which provides an overview of the Relative Value Scale Update Committee (RUC). The RUC Panel is convened three times a year by the American Medical Association (AMA) to provide recommendations to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) as to how the physician piece of the Medicare payment is determined.

In Memoriam: Helmut S. Schmidt, MD

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep medicine pioneer Helmut S. Schmidt, MD, died Oct. 20, 2010, at the age of 71. Schmidt opened one of the first sleep disorders centers in the country in 1975 at The Ohio State University Medical Center.

Volunteer as a Host Site for Mini-Fellowship Program for International Scholars

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AASM Accepting Applications for AASM DME Supplier Accreditation

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Facilities interested in earning AASM DME supplier accreditation can visit the AASM website to view and download the standards and application for this new program.

Abstract and Session Proposal Submission for SLEEP 2011 Begins Friday, Oct. 29

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Session proposals will be accepted for postgraduate courses, symposia, discussion groups and clinical workshops until Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2010, and abstract submission for oral presentations and poster presentations will be accepted until Wednesday, Dec. 15, 2010.

Extraverts are more vulnerable to effects of sleep deprivation after social interaction

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Study is the first to examine the effects of social stimulation and personality on sleep functions in humans.

AMA Releases Medical Liability Claims Frequency Information for Sleep

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Last summer, the AMA released medical liability claims frequency information based on its 2007-2008 Physician Practice Information Survey.

AASM Acknowledges October Contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Each month a new set of 200 consecutive epochs from a sleep record is posted online for the AASM Inter-scorer Reliability Testing Program. This new and convenient online program provides sleep centers, educational programs and research labs with the opportunity to compare the scoring ability of their staff and students with the AASM Gold Standard Scorer.

Final Week to Save on Two Product Sales through the AASM this October

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Oct. 31, 2010, is the deadline to save on AASM personalized brochure packs and products for sleep technologists.

Participate in the 2011 Member-Get-A-Member Campaign

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

For every new or reinstated AASM Regular or Fellow Member that you recruit for the 2011 membership-year, you will receive a $15 Recognition of Excellence Money (REM) Voucher toward AASM resources including product purchases, course registrations and more.

Apply for ASMF Awards by Jan. 14: Educational Projects & Strategic Research

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AASM to Host 2-Day Course for Experienced Sleep Physicians Feb. 18-19 in California

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

This course is intended for experienced sleep medicine specialists who wish to review the state of the art of the field. Participants have the opportunity to earn up to 16.00 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits over two days.

APSS Program Committee Requesting Session Proposals on Select Topics

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Become an integral part of this historic meeting by preparing a session proposal for review by the APSS Program Committee, which welcomes the submission of all proposals, particularly on certain topics in sleep medicine.

Take Advantage of 2011 AASM Membership Renewal Offers

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members can now renew their membership for 2011 online at the AASM website. Individual and Center Members who renew by Dec. 31, 2010, will receive a special offer.

Apply for 2011 AASM Young Investigator Research Forum by Dec. 1

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Applications are now being accepted for the 2011 AASM Young Investigator Research Forum. The Forum will provide young investigators the opportunity for collegial interaction with senior faculty members having successful careers across the broad spectrum of clinical sleep research. There is a projected future shortage of clinical sleep researchers, and research funding is difficult to obtain.

AASM Congratulates New Fellow Member

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AASM Updates Requirements for A-STEP Online Self-Study Modules

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Last Chance to Register for Upcoming AASM Courses

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Registration for the AASM Sleep Education Series course, Interpreting Sleep Studies, will close Tuesday, Oct. 19, 2010. The course, to be held Oct. 22–24, 2010, at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago), will include discussion of polysomnography, portable monitoring and actigraphy.

The AASM Recognizes Its Top Member Recruiters

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nov. 1 Deadline for SLEEP 2011 Session Proposal Review by Section Steering Committees

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The APSS Program Committee is soliciting proposals for the following sessions at SLEEP 2011: postgraduate courses, symposia, discussion groups and clinical workshops. The deadline for proposals to be submitted for review has been extended to Monday, Nov. 1.

AAMC Releases New Physician Shortage Estimates

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Center for Workforce Studies has released new physician shortage estimates, projecting that in 2015 there will be a deficit of 62,900 physicians.

Medicare Participation Guide: Know Your Options

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

From mid-November through Dec. 31, 2010, physicians will have their annual opportunity to review and perhaps change their participation status with the Medicare program. The American Medical Association (AMA) has developed the “Know your options: Medicare participation guide” to help physicians prepare for this opportunity and review their options carefully.

New Enrollment Fact Sheets from the Medicare Learning Network

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Medicare Learning Network (MLN) has released several fact sheets designed to educate Fee-For-Service (FFS) providers and suppliers about important Medicare enrollment information, including how to use Internet-based Provider Enrollment, Chain and Ownership System (PECOS) to enroll in the Medicare Program and maintain your enrollment information.

Sale for Month of October: Personalized Brochure Orders Discounted

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

During the month of October 2010, members can take advantage of discounted pricing on all personalized brochure orders; orders placed during this time will receive a $20/pack discount (a savings of greater than 30%)! For more information about personalized brochures, including design guidelines, visit the AASM Online Store.

AASM Opens Registration for Several 2011 Educational Courses

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Registration is now open for the following AASM Sleep Education Series courses to be held in 2011: Board Review for the Sleep Specialist, Current Topics in Sleep Medicine and The Business of Sleep Medicine

OIG 2011 Work Plan Includes Projects Related to Sleep Medicine

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A number of projects relate to the practice of sleep medicine, including a review of Medicare payments for sleep studies and a review of the compliance of independent diagnostic testing facilities (IDTFs) with Medicare standards.

AASM and SRS Nominate Chesson and Weaver for U.S. Preventive Services Task Force

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM and Sleep Research Society (SRS) have nominated Andrew L. Chesson, Jr., MD, and Terri E. Weaver, PhD, RN, to serve as members of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), an independent panel of non-Federal experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine.

Study in October SLEEP Receives Extensive Media Coverage

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The study “Associations of early pregnancy sleep duration with trimester-specific blood pressures and hypertensive disorders in pregnancy,” which was published in the October issue of SLEEP, received wide coverage from media outlets such as CNN, HealthDay and UPI.

Apply for ASMF Awards by Oct. 15: Physician Scientist Training & ABSM Junior Faculty Research

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) is committed to supporting the education and training of sleep scientists and is pleased to offer the Physician Scientist Training Award (PSTA) and the ABSM Junior Faculty Research Award as part of the ASMF 2011 grant cycle. Candidates applying for either of these awards must complete the application process by Oct. 15, 2010.

Online Application Now Required for AASM Sleep Center Accreditation

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM now accepts applications for sleep center accreditation exclusively online. The online Application for Accreditation, which has been available since March 2010, allows sleep facilities to begin the application process and save their progress as they collect necessary information and materials for accreditation.

Study Finds a High Rate of Restless Legs Syndrome in Adults with Fibromyalgia

Fri, 08 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Participants with fibromyalgia were 11 times more likely to have RLS than healthy controls.

Renew Your AASM Membership Online

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members can renew their 2011 membership online on the AASM website.

Save on All AASM Products for Sleep Technologists in October

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Order any AASM products for technologists during the month of October 2010 and receive 25 percent off these items.

AAST Sleep Technologist Appreciation Week is Oct. 4-10

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Sponsored by the American Association of Sleep Technologists (AAST), Sleep Technologist Appreciation Week 2010 will be recognized across the country by special events held at sleep disorders centers and laboratories for sleep-related breathing disorders.

Several Health Care Reform Provisions Take Effect

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Several provisions of the federal Affordable Care Act took effect September.

New Policy Brief Explains Standards and Certification of Electronic Health Records

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A new health policy brief from Health Affairs and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation explains the new federal Electronic Health Record Standards. Hospitals, doctors, and other clinicians can soon start receiving incentive payments under Medicare and Medicaid for making "meaningful use" of electronic health records (EHRs).

Physician Reimbursement Cut: Expect Another Postponement after November Elections

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Rather than seeking a long-term solution for the physician reimbursement crisis, Congress will likely postpone the looming 23-percent cut from Dec. 1 to either Feb. 1 or March 1, Medscape Medical News reports.

ACGME Approves Graduated Standards for Duty Hours

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) announced that its board of directors has approved "a set of requirements that are a comprehensive approach to patient care, quality improvement, supervision, professionalism, transitions in care, and resident well-being.

Earn CME Credit Online: October Issue of SLEEP

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members have access to the full text of each article in the Oct. 1 issue of the journal SLEEP when you log in on the website.

AASM Publishes Updated Practice Parameters for Adult OSA Surgeries

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Oct. 1 issue of SLEEP includes new “Practice parameters for the surgical modifications of the upper airway for obstructive sleep apnea in adults” from the AASM.

New SLEEP Website Launches

Fri, 01 Oct 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Associated Professional Sleep Societies launched a redesigned website for SLEEP Friday in preparation for the transition of the journal to a digital publication beginning in 2011 with volume 34.

Study Links Short and Long Sleep Durations in Early Pregnancy with Elevated Blood Pressure in the Third Trimester

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the Oct. 1 issue of the journal SLEEP found that getting too little or too much sleep in early pregnancy is associated with elevated blood pressure in the third trimester. The study suggests that improving prenatal sleep hygiene may provide important health benefits.

Obesity: Annual Cost Higher Than Expected, Study Finds

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The annual cost of being obese in the U.S. is $4,879 for women and $2,646 for men, according to a study by George Washington University researchers.

AHRQ Launches New Look for NGC and NQMC Websites

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The sites now allow users to find information faster, identify the right measures or guidelines with ease, and intuitively search thousands of records. Both sites include a side-by-side comparison feature, enhanced semantic search engine and easier navigation.

CMS to Unveil Proposed Regulations To Combat Fraud in Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The new rules would give federal health officials more power to identify fraud early and help them reduce an estimated $55 billion in improper payments made annually through Medicare and Medicaid. The new rules also would give CMS increased oversight on nearly $900 billion in annual spending on the three health care programs.

Last Week to Save 50% Off All AASM Webinar Archive CD-ROMs!

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

This sale includes single webinar archives as well as already discounted webinar archive sets that include all presentations from a series. Sale ends September 30, 2010.

Two 1-Day Workshops at AASM National Office to Feature Interaction with Leading Faculty

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Saturday, November 6, 2010, faculty, led by course chair Richard Berry, MD, will discuss issues related to Portable Monitoring and guide attendees through faculty demonstrations of the proper preparation of the portable monitoring patient. Following this workshop on Sunday, November 7, 2010, Ofer Jacobowitz, MD and faculty will present a hands-on course reviewing The Sleep Apnea Examination.

Submit SLEEP 2011 Session Proposals by Oct. 5 for Review by AASM Membership Section Steering Committees

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The APSS Program Committee is soliciting proposals for the following sessions at SLEEP 2011: postgraduate courses, symposia, discussion groups and clinical workshops.Prior to submitting your session proposal to the APSS Program Committee, section members are encouraged to submit their proposals to the AASM Membership Section Steering Committees for a complimentary review.

The AASM Announces its Third Offering of the Young Investigator Research Forum

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Journal SLEEP Goes Digital in 2011

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Associated Professional Sleep Societies will launch a redesigned website for SLEEP and transition the journal to a digital publication beginning in 2011 with volume 34. A preview of the new site will be launched on October 1, 2010.

American Sleep Medicine Foundation Sponsors Second Annual High School Essay Contest

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

First-place prize includes $1,000 and a trip to SLEEP 2011 in Minneapolis, Minn

NIH OppNet Announces Short-Term Research Education Program for New Investigators

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Program will focus on providing creative and innovative education research experiences for new scientists in basic behavioral and social science research (b-BSSR).

Clinicians Have Until Oct. 5 to File Claims in $350-Million UnitedHealth Settlement

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The settlement covers clinicians who filed out-of-network claims not only with UnitedHealth Group but also its subsidiaries and affiliates, which include Oxford Health Plans, Golden Rule Insurance, Mid-Atlantic Medical Services, and PacifiCare Health Systems.

Sleep Services Provider Settles with Federal Government over Billing for In-Home Sleep Studies

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A Maryland-based sleep services provider entered into a $500,000 settlement with the federal government over billing questions for home sleep testing services provided to patients with insurance coverage through TRICARE (military dependants) and the Federal Employees Health Benefit Program (FEHBP).

FAA Proposes Changes to Flightcrew Duty and Rest Requirements

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The proposed regulations would eliminate the current distinctions between domestic and international operations, expand the concept of pilot duty hours, recognize fatigue issues that arise based on the time of day and the time zone when and where pilots are working, and address the likelihood of being able to sleep under different circumstances.

World Sleep Federation Accepting Symposia Proposals for Worldsleep 2011 in Kyoto, Japan

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The deadline for submission is Nov. 30, 2010. More information about the meeting and details regarding the symposia submission process are available on the Worldsleep 2011 website.

FINAL REMINDER: Oct. 29 Deadline for 2011 Mini-Fellowship for International Scholars

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The four-week program provides international physicians from underdeveloped countries with practical training in clinical sleep medicine. The objective is to help them develop or improve sleep-related health care in their home country.

AASM Director of Coding, Compliance and Accreditation to Lead Course on E/M Coding

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Judy Coy, RN, AASM Director of Coding, Compliance and Accreditation, is scheduled to present a small-group, interactive course Nov. 1–2, 2010, at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois.

ISR Testing Program Now Offers Streaming Video on Demand for Monthly Record Review

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The video presentations will include a scoring explanation and discussion of epochs from the record where significant disagreement existed on the scoring of stages, respiratory events, arousals or limb movements.

Childhood Obesity: First Lady Calls on Congress to Pass Child Nutrition Bill

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Wednesday first lady Michelle Obama urged Congress to reauthorize childhood nutrition legislation that would help implement some of her "Let's Move!" campaign initiatives, the New York Times reports.

NIH Requests Applications for Scientific Meetings in Basic Behavioral & Social Science Research

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) Basic Behavioral and Social Science Opportunity Network (OppNet) has issued a funding opportunity announcement (FOA) soliciting Research Conference Grant (R13) applications for scientific meetings aimed at building interdisciplinary research teams in basic behavioral and social science research (b-BSSR).

Submit Applications for the ASMF 2011 Grant Cycle before Oct. 15

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) is committed to supporting the education and training of sleep scientists and is pleased to offer its fifth year of grant funding for the Physician Scientist Training Award (PSTA).

Submit SLEEP 2011 Session Proposals by Oct. 5 for Review by AASM Sections Committees

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Membership Section Steering Committees will provide feedback and will select session proposals they would like to recommend to the APSS Program Committee.

REMINDER: Claim SLEEP 2010 CME Credits Online by Oct. 1

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

If you attended SLEEP 2010 and registered for continuing medical education (CME) credits, continuing education (CE) contact hours for nurse practitioners, and/or a letter of attendance, then you must complete an online evaluation of the sessions you attended.

New AASM Pharmacology Course to be Presented by Top Faculty

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Oct. 30–31, 2010, the AASM will host a new course at the national office building in Darien, Illinois (a suburb of Chicago) entitled Pharmacology and Sleep Medicine.

Receive Feedback and Potential Endorsement from the AASM Membership Section Steering Committees before You Submit Your SLEEP 2011 Session Proposal

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Section members are encouraged to submit their SLEEP 2011 session proposals for a complimentary review. The Membership Section Steering Committees will provide feedback and select session proposals they would like to recommend to the APSS Program Committee

ONC Authorizes First EHR Testing and Certification Bodies

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC) announced that the Certification Commission for Health Information Technology (CCHIT) and the Drummond Group Inc. are the first technology review bodies that have been authorized to test and certify electronic health record (EHR) systems for compliance with the standards and certification criteria that were issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services earlier this year.

CMS Provides Online Information about Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has announced the availability of a new website section on the Electronic Prescribing Incentive (eRx) program.

NIH Accepting Applications for Loan Repayment Programs

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

For nearly 10 years the LRPs have supported early stage investigators by repaying up to $35,000 of educational debt annually for investigators who commit to at least two years of research funded by a domestic nonprofit, university or government entity.

AASM Recognizes Top Member Recruiters

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

These individuals are contributing to the growth of the organization by reaching out to their professional colleagues and encouraging them to join the AASM.

AASM Congratulates New Fellow Members

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Fellow status in the AASM is a unique honor that recognizes special competency in sleep medicine and significant contributions to the field

New Studies in SLEEP Receive Extensive Media Coverage

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Several studies published in the September issue of SLEEP received extensive coverage from media outlets such as ABC, CNN, Reuters and UPI.

Earn CME Credit Online: September Issue of SLEEP

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

You also can earn continuing medical education (CME) credits online by reading designated articles such as “Obstructive sleep apnea and aging effects on macrovascular and microcirculatory function” and “Insomnia with short sleep duration and mortality: the Penn State Cohort.”

Journal SLEEP Going Online Only in 2011

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), a joint venture of the AASM and the Sleep Research Society, will launch a redesigned website for SLEEP and transition the journal to an online-only resource beginning in 2011 with volume 34.

SOLD OUT: AASM Board Review Course in Reston; 2011 Course Registration to Open Soon

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The 2011 American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) sleep medicine certification exam will be the final opportunity for physicians to apply under the Practice Pathway; after 2011, all first-time applicants must have completed a sleep medicine fellowship program to take the exam.

SALE: Take 50% Off All AASM Webinar Archive CD-ROMs in September!

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AASM webinar archive CD-ROMs provide sleep medicine and sleep research professionals with a convenient educational tool that can be reviewed at your own home or office.

Advanced Registration Deadline Approaching for AASM Interpreting Sleep Studies Course

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Attendees will have the opportunity to review multiple types of sleep studies including respiratory sleep studies, non-respiratory sleep studies, studies of sleepiness and pediatric sleep studies.

Study Links Shorter Sleep Durations with Greater Risks of Mental Distress in Young Adults

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Young adults who get fewer than eight hours of sleep per night have greater risks of psychological distress, a combination of high levels of depressive and anxious symptoms, according to a study in the Sept. 1 issue of the journal SLEEP.

Coming Soon: Enhancing Clinical Phenotyping Symposium & Basic Behavioral and Social Science Research Meeting

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

NCRR of the NIH in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs and the CTSA program has announced pre-registration for a symposium on evolving approaches that take advantage of electronic health records, biorepositories and genotyping to create new opportunities for clinical phenotyping.

NIH OppNet Announces “Behavioral Maintenance” & “Psychosocial Stress” Funding Opportunities

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The NIH Basic Behavioral and Social Science Opportunity Network (OppNet) has issued new funding opportunity announcements (FOAs).

NIH Director Dr. Francis Collins Reacts to Stem Cell Injunction

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

NIH Director Dr. Francis Collins spoke with the media Tuesday afternoon about Monday's federal district court injunction that halted federally funded human embryonic stem cell research.

AASM Acknowledges August Contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

For the August ISR Testing Program the AASM gratefully acknowledges Nihon Kohden America for contributing software, Sleep HealthCenters for providing sleep records, and Dr. Michael J. Zachek for serving as the second gold standard.

Updated Sleep Medicine Practice Exam Now Online

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The six-part online exam consists of 150 questions in a variety of topic areas and features instant feedback for each question, a built-in reading list and a printable summary guide so you can tailor your future study.

Two 1-Day Workshops in Sleep Medicine: Portable Monitoring and The Sleep Apnea Examination

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM has recently expanded its Fall 2010 Sleep Education Series course schedule to include two small-group, full-day workshops that will be presented at the AASM national office in Darien, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago.

Applications for AASM DME Supplier Accreditation Accepted Beginning Sept. 1

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Facilities interested in earning AASM DME supplier accreditation can visit the AASM website to view and download the standards and application for this new program.

Study Finds an Increased Risk of Death in Men with Insomnia and a Short Sleep Duration

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Study is the first to demonstrate that chronic insomnia with objectively measured short sleep duration is associated with increased mortality in men.

Less is More: Study Shows that Teens Who Sleep Less Eat More Fatty Foods and Snacks

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Results suggest that achieving sufficient nightly sleep should be an essential component of obesity prevention and weight management programs.

NIH Appoints Tabak as Principal Deputy Director, Anderson as Director of DPCPSI

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

National Institutes of Health (NIH) Director Francis S. Collins, MD, PhD, announced the appointment of Lawrence A. Tabak, DDS, PhD, as NIH principal deputy director. Tabak assumes the position held by Raynard Kington, MD, PhD, who served as NIH deputy director since 2003, as well as acting NIH director from October 2008 to August 2009.

NIH Requests “Economics of Prevention” and “Mouse Metabolic Phenotyping” Grant Applications

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Topics of potential interest to sleep and circadian clinical researchers may include economic evaluations of preventive interventions to identify cost-effective, cost-beneficial approaches to improving health across the lifespan; modeling the effects of prevention measures (e.g. using biomarkers of disease risk) on health costs and outcomes, individual and provider responses; and identifying strategies that promote adoption of effective prevention measures.

ACRP Announces Project on Aircraft Noise and Noise-Induced Sleep Disturbance

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The objective of this research is to provide the starting point for the initiation of a large-scale social survey to acquire data in the U.S., which further develops noise exposure-response relationships describing the effects of aircraft noise on annoyance and sleep across the U.S. today.

AASM Course to Help Managers and Physicians Navigate the Complexities of Sleep E&M Coding

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Nov. 1–2, 2010, the AASM will host a new, interactive course at the national headquarters office in Darien, Illinois, covering billing issues related to evaluation and management (E&M) services performed by sleep medicine physicians.

NIH Requests "Sleep and Social Environment" and "Self-Regulation" Grant Applications

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Trans-NIH Basic Behavioral and Social Sciences Research Opportunity Network (OppNet) solicits Research Project Grant (R01) applications to investigate the biopsychosocial "mechanisms" underlying reciprocal interactions between the processes of sleep and circadian regulation and function with behavioral and social environment processes

AADSM Introduction to Dental Sleep Medicine Workshop is Sept. 25

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM) will host a full-day Introduction to Dental Sleep Medicine workshop Sept. 25, 2010, at the new national office in Darien, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago.

AASM High School Contest Entries Posted Online

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Almost 90 topical review papers that were entered in the 2009 ? 2010 AASM High School Topical Review in Sleep Science Contest will be posted on the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine website with the Aug. 15 issue of JCSM.

Read the Editorial by AASM President Dr. Patrick Strollo

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The August issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine includes an editorial by AASM President Patrick J. Strollo Jr., MD

AASM Publishes "Best Practice Guide for the Treatment of Nightmare Disorder in Adults"

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The purpose of the guide is to present recommendations on therapy of nightmare disorder, including medications such as prazosin and non-pharmacological treatment options such as image rehearsal therapy.

Earn CME Credit Online: August Issue of JCSM

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine will be available online this weekend, and AASM members have access to the full text of each article when you log in.

It’s all about Technique: Fixing Technical Problems for a Good Night’s Sleep as Kids Start a New School Year

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Getting a good night’s sleep often comes down to technique. Avoiding late-night technology use and keeping a regular sleep schedule are two important techniques to heed as kids head back to school.

Self-Reported Obesity Prevalence Increases in U.S.

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Results show that the overall self-reported obesity prevalence in the U.S. was 26.7 percent, an increase of 1.1 percentage points from 2007.

NIH Accepting Applications for Pioneer, New Innovator & Transformative Research Projects Awards

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Each year the National Institutes of Health (NIH) makes grants to exceptionally creative scientists through the NIH Director's Pioneer Award, New Innovator Award, and the Transformative Research Projects Award programs.

NIH Requests Cardiovascular Disease Research Grant Applications

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) issued a funding opportunity announcement .

New Tip Sheets Available on EHR Incentive Programs Website

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Medicare and Medicaid Electronic Health Record (EHR) incentive programs website has comprehensive information from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) including new tip sheets.

AASM Recognizes Top Member Recruiters

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the AASM's top Member-Get-A-Member Campaign recruiters for the month of July.

ASMF Announces Call for Proposals for the 2011 Grant Cycle

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Through this award, the ASMF supports research training for physicians who are pursuing careers as physician scientists in sleep medicine.

AASM Introduces New Pharmacology Course

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Register to attend the new AASM Sleep Education Series Course, Pharmacology and Sleep Medicine, to be held Oct. 30-31, 2010, at the AASM national headquarters in Darien, Illinois

Board Review Course is Next Weekend - Register by 4 p.m. Aug. 9

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Don't miss out on this chance to begin preparing for the 2011 American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) sleep medicine certification exam, which will be the final opportunity for physicians to apply under the Practice Pathway.

Guttmacher Appointed as NICHD Director

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Last week the National Institutes of Health announced the appointment of Alan E. Guttmacher, MD, as director of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), effective Aug. 1, 2010.

Claim SLEEP 2010 CME Credits Online by Oct. 1

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

To receive credits, this evaluation must be completed on or before Oct. 1, 2010, at 4 p.m. CDT.

Earn CME Credit Online: August Issue of SLEEP

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Aug. 1 issue of SLEEP will be available online this weekend, and AASM members have access to the full text of each article when you log in.

TrailBlazer to Require AASM Accreditation for Reimbursement

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Effective Jan. 1, 2011, a sleep clinic must have on file evidence that it is fully or provisionally accredited by either the American Academy of Sleep Medicine or the Joint Commission.

A SIDS Surprise: Study Finds that Infant Boys are More Easily Aroused from Sleep than Girls

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The surprising results suggest that the increased prevalence of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) among boys is not explained by any gender differences in arousability.

Study Suggests that Short and Long Sleep Durations are Independent Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Disease

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The association between extremes in sleep duration and heart problems remained high after controlling for depression, diabetes and hypertension.

Catching Up is Hard to Do: Negative Effects of Sleep Restriction May Linger after One Night of Recovery Sleep

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Study is the first experiment to systematically examine the relationship of the duration of sleep dose to the recovery of neurobehavioral deficits from sustained sleep restriction.

NIH Strengthens Draft Conflict of Interest Rule

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is extending the comment period for a proposed rule that would amend the regulations on potential conflicts of interest among agency-funded researchers.

House Panel Approves $1 Billion Budget Increase for NIH in 2011

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On July 15 the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies approved $1 billion in added funds for the NIH in fiscal year 2011, which would raise the agency’s budget to more than $32 billion.

Prepayment Review of Claims for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Devices (E0601)

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In response to the Comprehensive Error Rate Testing (CERT) program, Medicare Durable Medical Equipment (DME) contractors CIGNA and NHIC have provided details on their prepayment review of claims for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Devices (E0601).

Harvard Sleep Conference: Finding a Research Path for the Identification of Biomarkers of Sleepiness

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Sept. 21-22, 2010, the Harvard Division of Sleep Medicine will convene a panel of experts in assessing sleepiness, genomics, proteomics and molecular biology from across the U.S. and Europe to discuss future research directions for identification of biomarkers of sleepiness.

Application for AASM DME Accreditation Now Available Online

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Applications for AASM Accreditation of Non-Medicare Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Suppliers will be accepted beginning Sept. 1, 2010.

Registration Opens for AASM Interpreting Sleep Studies Course

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Oct. 22–24, 2010, the AASM will host an Interpreting Sleep Studies course at the new AASM national office building in Darien, IL. This course, chaired by Robert Basner, MD, will cover a variety of topics related to the interpretation of sleep studies including polysomnography, portable monitoring and actigraphy.

Berwick Sworn In As CMS Administrator

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Donald Berwick, MD, was sworn in last week as CMS administrator. Dr. Berwick, who served as president and CEO of the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) and as a Harvard University professor, is best known for helping hospitals use standardized procedures to improve quality.

HHS Releases Final Rule on “Meaningful Use” of Electronic Health Records

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The incentive plan was outlined in the 2009 federal economic stimulus package to spur adoption of health information technology to boost medical care effectiveness and efficiency.

Application for AASM DME Accreditation will be Available Next Week

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Next week the application for a new program offering AASM Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Accreditation for non-Medicare providers will be made available on the AASM website at http://www.aasmnet.org/DMEAccreditation.aspx.

AASM to Host Educational Courses at National Office in Fall 2010

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Featuring state-of-the art meeting facilities, the national office of the AASM will serve as the site for five AASM Sleep Education Series courses this fall.

Proposed 2011 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Available

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

This rule includes both the standard annual update to the Medicare payment schedule and implementation of many provisions of the Affordable Care Act.

NIOSH Announces Program for Training and Education in Occupational Safety and Health

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has announced the renewal of a program supporting interdisciplinary graduate training and continuing education in the core occupational safety and health areas as well as other closely related occupational safety and health (OSH) fields.

National Conference on Health Statistics is Aug. 16-18 in Washington, D.C.

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) - an agency of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - invites you to attend its 2010 National Conference on Health Statistics.

Online Videos from NIH Provide Help for New Grant Applicants

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health’s Center for Scientific Review (CSR) has released “NIH Peer Review Revealed,” a 15-minute video that shows new applicants and others how NIH assesses more than 80,000 grant applications each year to help find those with the most merit.

Medicare: Competitively Bid Payment Amounts for Durable Medical Equipment (DME)

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In response to a legislative mandate to set durable medical equipment (DME) prices pursuant to a competitive bidding process, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has released DME payment amounts for nine communities where the new price structure will go into effect Jan. 1, 2011.

AASM Acknowledges July Contributions to the ISR Testing Program

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

For the July ISR Testing Program the AASM gratefully acknowledges Embla Systems for contributing software and the Sleep Medicine and Research Center of Chesterfield, Mo., and Dr. Michael Zachek for providing sleep records.

Coming Soon: Application for AASM DME Accreditation

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Beginning Sept. 1, 2010, applications will be accepted for a new program offering AASM Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Accreditation for non-Medicare providers.

Biosketch of AASM President Dr. Patrick Strollo

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Dr. Patrick J. Strollo Jr., the 2010-2011 President of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) is an associate professor in the University of Pittsburgh’s Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care.

CMS Launches Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Programs Website

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has launched the official website for the Medicare & Medicaid Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Programs

CMS: Physicians Can Still Participate in the 2010 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI)

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

This week CMS reminded physicians that it is not too late to start participating in the 2010 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) and potentially qualify to receive incentive payments.

CMS Announces Opportunity for Nonparticipating Physicians/Practitioners to Become Participating

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Earlier this week CMS announced that it is offering physicians and other practitioners, whose current participation status is non-participating, the opportunity to become participating (PAR). This opportunity is available through July 16, 2010.

CMS Displays 2011 Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule: Publication Date is July 13

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) 2011 Physician Fee Schedule proposed rule is now on display at the Office of the Federal Register’s Public Inspection Desk.

Florida House Bill 971 Signed into Law, Establishing “Drowsy Driving Prevention Week”

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Hawaii Senate Bill 2600 Signed into Law, Providing Exemption for Sleep Technologists

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On June 28, Hawaii Governor Linda Lingle signed Senate Bill 2600 (SB 2600) into law. The bill establishes licensure for respiratory therapists.

Holiday Hours: AASM National Office Will be Closed Monday, July 5

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In observance of Independence Day, the national offices of the AASM, Sleep Research Society, Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC, American Board of Sleep Medicine, American Association of Sleep Technologists, and American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine will be closed Monday, July 5, and will reopen at 8 a.m. CDT Tuesday, July 6.

Final Week of July SALE: Personalized Brochure Orders Discounted!

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

As a benefit of membership, AASM individual and center members have the opportunity to order any of the AASM’s patient education brochures with their contact information printed professionally on the back of each brochure.

Earn CME Credit Online Through the July Issue of SLEEP

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The July 1 issue of SLEEP is available online, and AASM members have access to the full text of each article when you log in.

Submit SLEEP 2011 Speaker Recommendations by July 23

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The APSS Program Committee is requesting recommendations from AASM and Sleep Research Society (SRS) members for keynote speakers and invited lecturers.

Now Open: New SLEEP 2010 Online Poster Viewing Site

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

At the new SLEEP 2010 Online Poster Viewing Site, you can view and discuss more than 265 posters that were presented in June at SLEEP 2010.

Understanding Medicare Participation and Non-Participation

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Understand how physicians who are identified by the Medicare program as non-participating may still provide care for Medicare beneficiaries and receive payment by the program.

Congress Passes Another Temporary Fix to Medicare Reimbursement

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

President Obama signed into law the “Preservation of Access to Care for Medicare Beneficiaries and Pension Relief Act of 2010.”

NIH Announces Workshop on Virtual Reality Technologies for Obesity & Diabetes

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Virtual Reality Technologies for Research and Education in Obesity and Diabetes workshop, which has potentially far-reaching application to sleep disorders and behavioral sleep medicine, will be held July 15-16, 2010, in Bethesda, Md.

AMA Resolution Acknowledges the Problem of Insufficient Sleep in Adolescents

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Medical Association (AMA) recently adopted an AASM-sponsored Resolution 503, “Insufficient Sleep in Adolescents."

ACGME Task Force Proposes New Draft Standards for Resident Physician Duty Hours

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Under these draft standards, the recommended maximum weekly work hours would stay the same as the ACGME's current standard of 80 hours per week averaged over four weeks, and all moonlighting would be included in this total.

Final Sleep Medicine Exam Under Practice Pathway: AASM Review Course Deadline is July 15

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The 2011 American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) sleep medicine certification exam will be the final opportunity for physicians to apply under the Practice Pathway; after this exam, all first-time applicants must have completed a formal sleep medicine fellowship program.

Earn CME Credit Online Through the June Issue of JCSM

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The June 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine is available online. AASM members can earn CME credits by reading designated articles.

Impact Factor for SLEEP is Announced

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The 2009 impact factor for SLEEP is 5.402. This is the highest impact factor in the journal’s 32-year history and ranks SLEEP first among all original-science sleep journals.

President Speeches from the General Membership Meeting at SLEEP 2010

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Read the talks given by Patrick J. Strollo, MD, president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and Clete A. Kushida, MD, PhD, past president of the AASM, at the general membership meeting held on June 7, 2010, at SLEEP 2010 in San Antonio.

Read Dr. Strollo's general membership meeting speech at SLEEP 2010

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Below is a transcript of the talk delivered by Dr. Patrick J. Strollo, president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine

Read Dr. Kushida's general membership meeting speech at SLEEP 2010

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Below is a transcript of the talk delivered by Dr. Clete A. Kushida, past president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine

Sleep 2010: American Academy of Sleep Medicine Award Recipients

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recognized the following individuals at SLEEP 2010, the 24rd Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS), in San Antonio, Texas.

UF Professor Richard Berry Receives Excellence in Education Award from American Academy of Sleep Medicine

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Prestigious award recognizes Berry’s outstanding contributions in the teaching of sleep medicine.

Charles Czeisler of BWH Receives Public Policy Award from American Academy of Sleep Medicine

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Prestigious award recognizes Czeisler’s contributions to the development of public policy that promotes healthy sleep.

UA Professor Stuart Quan Receives Academic Achievement Award from American Academy of Sleep Medicine

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Prestigious award recognizes Quan’s exceptional initiative and progress in the areas of sleep education and academic research.

Mayo Clinic’s Michael Silber Receives Distinguished Service Award from American Academy of Sleep Medicine

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine presented the 2010 Nathaniel Kleitman Distinguished Service Award to Mayo Clinic professor Michael H. Silber, MBChB.

CMS Begins Processing June Claims with 21-Percent Cut

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

If legislation is not signed into law before the weekend, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will have no option but to instruct its contractors to begin processing Medicare claims for physician services provided in June at rates that reflect the 21-percent cut.

CMS Instructs Contractors to Hold Claims through June 17

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Monday Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) filed a motion for cloture on the extenders bill, which would reverse the 21-percent Medicare physician payment cut that took effect for services provided on and after June 1.

NASA Requests Information on Topics Supporting Crew Health & Performance

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The NASA Human Research Program requests comments on its public goals including several items of potential interest to sleep and circadian researchers such as behavioral health and performance, workload measures, and neurocognitive performance.

NCSDR Analyzes Sleep Research Grants Funded by NIH

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

There has been a steady level of sleep-related clinical research funded by the National Institutes of Health.

National Sleep Disorders Research Plan Revision: Submit Comments by July 2

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institutes of Health, through its National Center on Sleep Disorders Research (NCSDR), is in the early phases of revising the National Sleep Disorders Research Plan that was last published in 2003.

AASM Encourages Members to Complete CPT Code Surveys

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

As part of the ongoing survey of the codes reported by sleep medicine physicians, the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP), American Thoracic Society (ATS) and American Academy of Neurology (AAN) are surveying their respective memberships on CPT code 94660, “Continuous positive airway pressure ventilation (CPAP), initiation and management.”

AASM Thanks Members for Making SLEEP 2010 a Success

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine board of directors extends a special thanks to all AASM members who attended SLEEP 2010 and to the numerous members who contributed to the premier scientific meeting in the sleep field by chairing or speaking at a session or course, presenting new science, leading a membership section or lending their expertise.

IMPORTANT REMINDER: The AASM National Office Has Moved

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The national office for the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, American Sleep Medicine Foundation and American Board of Sleep Medicine has moved into a new headquarters in Darien, Illinois.

CPAP shown to reverse brain tissue damage from sleep apnea

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

With proper treatment brain tissue damage and cognitive impairment caused by obstructive sleep apnea are reversible.

SLEEP 2010 Abstract Presentations for Wednesday, June 9

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The following links direct are to press releases summarizing selected scientific abstracts that will be presented on Wednesday, June 9, at SLEEP 2010, the 24th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS) in San Antonio, Texas.

SLEEP 2010 Abstract Presentations for Tuesday, June 8

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The following links direct are to press releases summarizing selected scientific abstracts that will be presented on Tuesday, June 8, at SLEEP 2010, the 24th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS) in San Antonio, Texas.

Childhood Parasomnias Such as Sleepwalking and Bedwetting May Persist into Adolescence

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Both remission rates and incidence rates for parasomnias are low as children enter the teen years.

SLEEP 2010 Abstract Presentations for Monday, June 7

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The following links direct are to press releases summarizing selected scientific abstracts that will be presented on Monday, June 7, at SLEEP 2010, the 24th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS) in San Antonio, Texas.

Submit Comments on Proposed “HHS Strategic Framework on Multiple Chronic Conditions”

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Office of Public Health and Science is soliciting public comment on the HHS Interagency Workgroup on Multiple Chronic Conditions draft ‘‘HHS Strategic Framework on Multiple Chronic Conditions.’’

CMS to Deny Claims Received Later than One Calendar Year Beyond the Date of Service

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In May the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that it is updating its criteria related to the timely filing limits for submitting claims for Medicare Fee-for-Service (FFS) reimbursement.

AASM Recognizes Top Member Recruiters

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

These individuals are contributing to the growth of the organization by reaching out to their professional colleagues and encouraging them to join the AASM.

New Scoring Manual FAQ Added Online

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A new question and response regarding monitor resolution has been added to the AASM FAQs page on the AASM website.

Earn CME Credit Online Through the June Issue of SLEEP

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The June 1 issue of the journal SLEEP is now available online, and AASM members have access to the full text of each article when you log in. You also can earn continuing medical education (CME) credits online.

Earn CME Credit Online Through the June Issue of SLEEP

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The June 1 issue of the journal SLEEP is now available online, and AASM members have access to the full text of each article when you log in.

FTC Again Delays Enforcement of “Red Flags Rule”

Fri, 28 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Federal Trade Commission announced today that it is further delaying enforcement of the “Red Flags” Rule through December 31, 2010, while Congress considers legislation that would affect the scope of covered entities.

House Passes Physician Payment Update, But Senate Recess Leads to June 1 Cut

Fri, 28 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The provisions in the revised extenders package (H.R. 4213) include a 2.2-percent Medicare physician payment update for the remainder of 2010, a one-percent update for 2011, and a return to the current sustainable growth rate (SGR) formula in 2012.

Order Audio Downloads of Select SLEEP 2010 Sessions

Fri, 28 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

New this year you can order audio downloads of up to 22 recorded sessions from SLEEP 2010, the 24th annual meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), which took place June 5 – 9, 2010, in San Antonio, Texas.

Getting Extra Sleep Improves the Athletic Performance of Collegiate Football Players

Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Ongoing study at Stanford University shows that sleep extension helps athletes achieve optimal performance.

CMS Instructs Contractors to Hold Claims for First 10 Business Days of June

Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

As Congress works to avert the negative update to the 2010 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule (MPFS) that is scheduled to take effect June 1, 2010, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has instructed its contractors to hold claims containing services paid under the MPFS (including anesthesia services) for the first 10 business days of June.

House Scales Back SGR Provision in Proposed “Extenders” Bill

Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

House Democratic leaders on Wednesday released a scaled-down version of the so-called "extenders" bill (HR 4213) in an attempt to draw enough support to pass the legislation, which would delay a 21-percent cut to Medicare physician reimbursement rates that is scheduled to take effect June 1.

AASM Accreditation Growth: More than 2,000 Sleep Centers and Labs Now Accredited

Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM accredited a sleep center for the first time in 1977, and today there are 2,045 AASM-accredited sleep disorders centers and laboratories for sleep-related breathing disorders that are providing the highest quality of medical care for patients with sleep problems.

Print and Online Versions of the AASM Membership Directory are Now Available

Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The printed 2010-2011 AASM Membership Directory will be mailed in the next few weeks to active AASM members who indicated a preference to receive this publication.

Shipment of AASM Orders May Be Delayed

Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Due to the relocation of the AASM National Headquarters, orders made from June 1, 2010, through June 21, 2010, may incur a delay in shipment.

Arrive Early to Register On-Site and Add Courses in San Antonio for SLEEP 2010

Thu, 27 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Pre-registration has closed for SLEEP 2010, the 24th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS). However, individuals interested in attending the meeting may register on-site for the SLEEP 2010 general session and any available ticketed sessions.

CPAP Therapy Provides a Memory Boost for Adults with Sleep Apnea

Wed, 26 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Continuous positive airway pressure therapy may help correct the memory impairments caused by obstructive sleep apnea.

Study Finds a Seasonal Variance in the Prevalence of Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Young Children

Tue, 25 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Seasonal allergies may play a role in the development of mild sleep-disordered breathing.

Long-Term Study Links Chronic Insomnia to Increased Risk of Death

Tue, 25 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Mortality risk in people with chronic insomnia was three times higher than in people without insomnia.

The Best and Worst Work Schedules: Shift Start Times Can Impact Sleep and Alertness

Tue, 25 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Study predicts that day shifts allow workers to get more sleep than night shifts, and a night shift that begins after midnight may be better than a shift that starts at 11 p.m.

High School Seniors with Excessive Daytime Sleepiness Have an Increased Risk of Depression

Mon, 24 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Study also finds that severe sleep deprivation during the school week is common among high school seniors.

Bright Light Therapy Improves Sleep Disturbances in Soldiers with Combat PTSD

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Study suggests that bright light therapy may be an effective treatment for combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder.

Anti-Fraud Program Returns $2.5 Billion to Medicare, $441 Million to Medicaid in 2009

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Efforts by the federal government to eliminate Medicare fraud have produced $2.5 billion for the program's trust fund in fiscal year 2009, a 29-percent increase from the previous year, according to a report released by HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius and Attorney General Eric Holder.

AMA Opposes Proposed Five-Year Medicare Reimbursement “Fix”

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

American Medical Association (AMA) officials said the group opposes a plan that congressional leaders reportedly are considering to increase physicians' Medicare reimbursements by one to two percent over the next several years, before a 37-percent cut to the payments in 2015.

Help the ASMF Advance Sleep Health and Education

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) announces a new campaign in 2010 to “Advance Sleep Health and Education.” You can increase awareness and advance research and education on the health risks associated with sleep disorders by making a generous donation to the ASMF.

Attend the AASM General Membership Meeting June 7 at SLEEP 2010

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Make plans to attend the AASM General Membership Meeting Monday, June 7, 2010, from 12:30 p.m. - 1:45 p.m. at SLEEP 2010 in room 206AB at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas.

Pre-Registration for SLEEP 2010 Ends May 26

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The last day to pre-register is Wednesday, May 26, 2010; after this date, only on-site registrations will be accepted.

More Adults Report Excessive Sleepiness in the U.S. than in Europe

Fri, 21 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Study shows that one in five Americans report having excessive sleepiness, raising public safety concerns regarding the potential for injuries and accidents.

Planes, Trains and Automobiles: Traffic Noise Disturbs Sleep, Affects Morning Performance

Thu, 20 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nighttime noise from passing aircraft, trains and automobiles is associated with disturbed sleep and impaired neurobehavioral performance in the morning.

Sleep-Deprived Nurses May Struggle to Remain Vigilant During 12-Hour Shifts

Thu, 20 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nurses working 12-hour shifts often are sleep deprived, and a small percentage of them struggle to maintain vigilance during successive shifts.

Study is the First to Show that Highly Variable Sleep Schedules Predict Elevated Suicide Risk

Wed, 19 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Longitudinal investigation demonstrates that objectively assessed sleep irregularity uniquely predicts acute increases in suicidal ideation.

Study is the First to Find that CPAP Therapy Restores Brain Tissue in Adults with Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Wed, 19 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Three months of CPAP therapy produced significant increases in grey-matter volume.

First-Time Parents’ Daily Sleep Duration Predicts Their Relationship Satisfaction

Wed, 19 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Objective total sleep time is more strongly associated with self-reported relationship satisfaction than subjective sleep quality.

Study Links Regular Bedtimes to Better Language, Reading and Math Skills in Preschool Children

Tue, 18 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Results highlight the importance of a consistent bedtime reinforced by intention¬al parenting practices for a child’s overall cognitive development.

Study Links Sleep Apnea in Children and Teens to Lower Academic Grades

Tue, 18 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Children and teens with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea had lower average grades in school than students without sleep-disordered breathing.

Nocturnal Alertness Improves after Exposure to Milliseconds of Bright Light Flashes

Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Study provides new insight into how the brain responds to light.

Sleep Colors Your View of the World: Study Suggests that Sleep Restores Proper Color Perception

Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep corrects the drift in color perception that occurs during wakefulness.

Results: Special Member Ballot for Bylaws Revisions

Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The result of the vote was a 70 percent majority of respondents supporting the proposed changes to the bylaws.

Study Examines Average Workday in One Primary Care Practice

Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Richard Baron, MD, an internist in a five-provider practice in Philadelphia with roughly 8,500 patients, conducted a year-long study using his practice's electronic health record system to evaluate the average daily workload of a primary care physician, USA Today reports.

Several CAAHEP-Accredited PSG Programs Offer Online Learning & Distance Education

Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

To broaden access to quality training, several CAAHEP-accredited programs have begun to offer online learning and distance education.

ASMF Announces 2010-2011 Board of Directors and Executive Board

Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) announces its 2010-2011 board of directors and executive board.

Experts in Sleep Medicine Scheduled to Speak at 2010 Board Review Course

Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In 2010 the AASM will host a Board Review for the Sleep Specialist course in two convenient locations: Aug. 13–15 in Denver, Colo., and Oct. 1–3 in Reston, Va.

New 120-Second Display Added to AASM Inter-scorer Reliability Testing Program

Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A new record has been posted to the AASM’s Inter-scorer Reliability Testing Program for the month of May featuring an important new application that will aid in the scoring of respiratory events and limb movements.

New AASM Standards for DME Accreditation Available Online

Fri, 14 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Beginning Sept. 1, 2010, applications will be accepted for a new program offering AASM Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Accreditation for non-Medicare providers.

Sleep Problems are Common in U.S. Soldiers Returning from Wartime Deployment

Thu, 13 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A study shows that sleep disturbances persist even 1.5 months after soldiers return from deployment.

Study Links Long Sleep Duration to an Increased Risk of Metabolic Syndrome in Older Adults

Thu, 13 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

With more than 29,000 participants, the study is the largest investigation of sleep and metabolic syndrome.

Sleep Preference Can Predict Performance of Major League Baseball Pitchers

Wed, 12 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Pitchers who are “morning types” appear to have an advantage over night owls.

Sleep May Help You Become a “Guitar Hero”

Wed, 12 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Study uses “Guitar Hero III” to show that sleep may play a role in the consolidation of a complex motor-learning task.

Study Finds that Sexsomnia is Common in Sleep Center Patients

Wed, 12 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Men are more likely than women to report sexsomnia, but few patients talk to their doctor about the problem.

Teen Automobile Crash Rates are Higher When School Starts Earlier

Wed, 12 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Early school start times promote sleep deprivation and daytime sleepiness, which can reduce the alertness of teen drivers.

Special Member Ballot for Bylaws Revisions: Last Chance to Vote Friday, May 7

Fri, 07 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members received an e-mail notification about revisions to the AASM bylaws that were recently approved by the AASM Board of Directors

Oklahoma Amends Requirements for Sleep Physician Qualifications

Fri, 07 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On May 4, 2010, Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry signed Senate Bill 1985 (SB 1985), which further clarifies the qualifications for the interpreting or supervising physician caring for a patient with a sleep disorder.

AASM Recognizes Top Member Recruiters

Fri, 07 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the AASM’s top Member-Get-A-Member Campaign recruiters for the month of April.

Earn CME Credit Online Through the May Issue of SLEEP

Fri, 07 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The May 1 issue of the journal SLEEP is now available online, and AASM members have access to the full text of each article when you log in.

Final Psychology of Sleep Medicine Webinar is Thursday, May 13: “CPAP Non-Adherence”

Fri, 07 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Register today for the final webinar in the Introduction to the Psychology of Sleep Medicine series: “Evaluation and Management of CPAP Non-adherence.” The webinar will be presented by Mark Aloia, PhD, CBSM, at 12 p.m. Central time, Thursday, May 13, 2010.

Sale on Supplementary A-STEP Scoring Modules Ends May 31

Fri, 07 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

If you have sleep technologists at your facility who are preparing to take the RPSGT exam or need additional education on scoring, ensure that they receive optimal training by taking advantage of the 50-percent-off sale on the A-STEP Supplementary Scoring Modules through the end of May 2010.

2010-2011 Membership Section Chairs Elected

Fri, 07 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In March the AASM held the 2010-2011 elections for the chairs of the eight membership sections.

Attend Your Section Meeting at SLEEP 2010

Fri, 07 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Section meetings at SLEEP 2010 in San Antonio, Texas, allow attendees to ask questions, suggest ideas and meet members of the Section Steering Committees.

Book Your SLEEP 2010 Hotel by Friday, May 14, for Discounted Room Rates

Fri, 07 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2010, the 24th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), will be held June 5–9, 2010, in San Antonio, Texas.

SLEEP 2010 Sessions to Cover Latest Advances in Sleep Medicine and Sleep Research

Fri, 07 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2010 will feature a variety of sessions on the latest advances in sleep medicine and sleep research. More than 90 scientific sessions will be presented.

Last Chance: Deadline to Complete Online SLEEP Survey is Wednesday, May 5

Tue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AASM members recently received an important e-mail notification about options being considered by the Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS) board of directors for the future of the journal SLEEP. The AASM encourages all members to contribute to this discussion by completing the survey using the link provided in the e-mail. Respond online with your vote by Wednesday, May 5, 2010. If you have problems accessing the survey, please send an e-mail to webmaster@aasmnet.org.

AASM Promoting NIH Funding During Meetings with Key Legislators in Washington, D.C.

Tue, 04 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) is committed to advancing the field of sleep research and promoting funding opportunities for sleep scientists. On Tuesday, May 4, and Wednesday, May 5, 2010, AASM Director of Health Policy and Government Relations Bruce Blehart will be in Washington, D.C., speaking with members of the U.S. Congress about the importance of maintaining adequate federal funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Sleeping Well at 100 Years of Age: Study Searches for the Secrets to Healthy Longevity

Sat, 01 May 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the May 1 issue of the journal SLEEP is the first to examine sleep issues in a large sample of exceptionally old adults, including nearly 2,800 people who were 100 years of age and older.

Virginia House Bill 725 Signed by Governor: Establishes Licensure for Sleep Technologists

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On April 21, Governor Bob McDonnell signed House Bill 725 (SB 725) into law, establishing licensure for sleep technologists. Virginia is now the ninth jurisdiction to provide sleep technologists a specific licensing/certification pathway.

AASM Publishes Compilation of Reference Manuals for Sleep Technologist Training

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

While each of these manuals may be purchased separately through the AASM Online Store, the AASM has recently bound the three publications together to create the Essentials of Sleep Technology, a comprehensive reference manual that can be used as a training resource for sleep technologists and as a resource for experienced technologists throughout their careers.

Expert Faculty to Present Remaining Psychology of Sleep Medicine Webinars

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Expert Faculty to Present Remaining Lectures in the Introduction to the Psychology of Sleep Medicine Webinar Series

A-STEP Introductory Course Provider Information at SLEEP 2010

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM expects that the demand for A-STEP Introductory Course providers will increase. For this reason, the AASM is encouraging all accredited centers to consider applying as an A-STEP Introductory Course provider.

Courses at SLEEP 2010 Cover Sleep Medicine and Research Topics

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Saturday, June 5, 2010, and Sunday, June 6, 2010, the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS) will host several postgraduate courses prior to the SLEEP 2010 general session

Results of the 2010-2011 AASM Board of Directors Election

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A total of 1,306 ballots were returned; the results of the election have been tabulated, and the following slate of candidates was approved by a majority of respondents.

Obama Officially Nominates Berwick to Head CMS

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

President Obama nominated Dr. Donald Berwick to be administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) in the Department of Health and Human Services.

Extensions Bill: Congress Passes, Obama Signs

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Last week Congress approved the Continuing Extension Act of 2010 (HR 4851), which temporarily delays the 21-percent cut to Medicare physician payments and extends unemployment benefits, including subsidies to help purchase COBRA coverage, the New York Times reported.

AASM Membership Now Comprises More Than 8,000 Individuals

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Today the AASM's active membership comprises more than 8,000 individuals and 1,200 sleep disorders centers and laboratories for sleep-related breathing disorders.

Help the ASMF Advance Sleep Health and Education

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) announces a new campaign in 2010 to "Advance Sleep Health and Education." You can increase awareness and advance research and education on the health risks associated with sleep disorders by making a generous donation to the ASMF.

Next Webinar in Psychology of Sleep Medicine Series is Wednesday, May 5

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

For more information about the Introduction to the Psychology of Sleep Medicine webinar series, visit the Sleep Education Series portion of the AASM website.

Provide Important Feedback by Completing Online SLEEP Survey

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Wednesday the AASM sent members an important e-mail notification about options being considered by the Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS) board of directors for the future of the journal SLEEP.

Special Member Ballot for Bylaws Revisions: Vote by May 7

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

On Friday, April 23, 2010, AASM members will receive an e-mail notification about revisions to the AASM bylaws that were recently approved by the AASM board of directors.

Mark Your Calendar for June 7 AASM General Membership Meeting at SLEEP 2010

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Make plans to attend the AASM General Membership Meeting at SLEEP 2010 Monday, June 7, from 12:30 p.m. - 1:45 p.m. in room 206AB at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Texas. This meeting is open to all AASM members.

Register Early for SLEEP 2010 Ticketed Sessions

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

As SLEEP 2010, the 24th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), quickly approaches, space in several of the meeting's most popular ticketed sessions are beginning to fill up.

Important Dates & Times Related to the Move of the AASM National Office in June

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The national office for the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, American Sleep Medicine Foundation and American Board of Sleep Medicine will move into a new headquarters in June. During this transition the national office will close Wednesday, June 16, 2010, at 4:30 p.m. CDT and will reopen Monday, June 21, 2010, at 12 p.m. CDT.

Medicare Hold on Physician Claims Expires as Senate Debates Payment Extension

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

After a short-term reprieve from a 21-percent Medicare physician payment cut expired April 1, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) instructed its contractors to refrain from processing physician claims at the reduced rates for 10 working days.

April Issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine is Online

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The April 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, the official publication of the AASM, is available online

SLEEP 2010 Abstract Supplement is Available Online

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The SLEEP abstract supplement for SLEEP 2010, the 24th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), is available for download on the journal Web site.

Deadlines Approaching for SLEEP 2010

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2010, the 24th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), will be held June 5-9, 2010, in San Antonio, Texas.

Study Finds that Playing a Video Game Before Bedtime Has Only a Mild Effect on Adolescent Sleep

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A study in the April 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine suggests that playing a video game before bedtime has only a mild effect on the sleep of older male teens.

Study Finds that the Association Between Sleep Disturbances and Reduced Quality of Life Varies by Race

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

This unique study maps the relative importance of sleep disturbances to health-related quality of life in African-Americans, Caucasians and Hispanics.

Lunch Sessions at SLEEP 2010 Beginning to Sell Out

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Many of the SLEEP 2010 sessions are already filling up quickly; attendees are encouraged to register early to ensure that your space is reserved in these popular sessions.

NHLBI-Funded Study Finds that Untreated OSA is Associated with Increased Risk of Stroke

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Obstructive sleep apnea is associated with an increased risk of stroke in middle-aged and older adults, especially men, according to new results from a landmark study supported by the NHLBI.

First Webinar in New Inter-scorer Reliability Record Review Series is Tuesday, April 20

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The first Inter-scorer Reliability Record Review webinar will be held April 20, 2010, at 12 p.m. Central time and will review the February record.

New Networking Event Slated for SLEEP 2010 Program

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The APSS will host a new networking event on the evening of Sunday, June 6, 2010, from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Current Topics Webinar on "Sleep and Fatigue in Residency" is Wednesday, April 21

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM will host an online webinar series featuring several of the presentations that will be given at the Current Topics in Sleep Medicine course.

AASM National Office to Close Early on Friday, April 2

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The national office of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine will close at 2 p.m. CDT Friday, April 2, 2010.

Berwick to be Named CMS Administrator

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Donald Berwick, MD, is expected to be nominated as the new administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Senate Action Fails to Prevent Medicare Payment Cut

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

With Congress in recess at this time, the 21-percent Medicare payment cut for physician services is scheduled to go into effect for care provided after March 31.

Make the Most of SLEEP 2010 & Extend Your Stay in San Antonio

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

2010 marks the first year that the APSS has held its meeting in the state of Texas…take some extra time before or after SLEEP 2010 to enjoy the diverse activities that can be found in the surrounding area.

Perception of Poor Sleep May Predict Postpartum Mood Disturbances in Healthy New Mothers

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The perception of poor sleep and the conscious awareness of its impact on daytime functioning might be stronger predictors of immediate postpartum mood disturbances than actual sleep quality and quantity.

Study Suggests that Maintaining Regular Daily Routines Is Associated with Better Sleep Quality in Older Adults

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The maintenance of daily routines was associated with a reduced rate of insomnia and improved quality of sleep in older adults living in a retirement community.

NHLBI Requests Applications for Time-Sensitive Ancillary Studies

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute has re-issued an initiative to support "time-sensitive" ancillary studies related to heart, lung, and blood diseases and sleep disorders in conjunction with ongoing clinical trials and other large clinical studies (large epidemiological cohorts).

AASM Opens Registration for Board Review Course: Two Locations in 2010

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In 2010 the AASM will host a Board Review for the Sleep Specialist course in two convenient locations: Aug. 13-15 in Denver, Colo., and Oct. 1-3 in Reston, Va.

Section Members: Vote for Section Chairs from March 17 - 31

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Online ballots for the 2010-2011 membership section chair elections were sent out via e-mail on Wednesday, March 17, 2010.

Final Days of March Sale: Get a Twenty-Percent Discount on Resources for Sleep Technologists

Fri, 26 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Equip sleep technologists at your facility with the resources needed for them to excel by purchasing discounted educational material from the AASM during the month of March.

Next Webinar in New Psychology of Sleep Medicine Series is Wednesday, May 5

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Introduction to the Psychology of Sleep Medicine webinar series

Obama Launches Expanded Anti-Fraud Effort

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

President Obama signed a Presidential Memorandum that will expand the federal government's efforts to combat fraud and reduce improper Medicare and Medicaid payments.

ACGME to Consider Reducing Resident Duty Hours

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In April the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education will consider a proposal to reduce the number of hours medical residents may work per week from 80 to as few as 60.

Submit Comments on NIDDK Draft Diabetes Strategic Research Plan by March 31

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The National Institute on Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases has posted a draft strategic research planning report to invite comment by members of the scientific community and the public.

Submit Late-breaking Abstracts for SLEEP 2010 by March 24

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS) is accepting late-breaking abstract submissions for SLEEP 2010.

AASM Releases Enhanced Inter-scorer Reliability Testing Program: Free Trial Available Now

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

AASM-accredited centers looking for a solution to meet the Standards for Accreditation regarding inter-scorer reliability can visit www.aasmnet.org/isr to register an account with the AASM's new Inter-scorer Reliability Testing Program.

OIG Chief Outlines Strategies to Uncover More Medicare Fraud

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Daniel Levinson, head of the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG), testified during a congressional hearing that waste and abuse of health programs cost an estimated $7.8 billion in 2009.

Senate Passes Bill to Delay Physician Pay Cut, Bolster Medicaid

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Senate passed a $138 billion bill that delays a 21 percent cut in physician Medicare reimbursements until Oct. 1 and extends jobless and COBRA benefits for unemployed workers.

Population Studies Workshop to be Held by NHLBI and Northwestern University in July

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The NHLBI and Northwestern University have announced that a workshop to inform researchers on how to access and use data from major NHLBI-sponsored cohort studies will be held July 11-14, 2010, at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago.

AASM Call for Accreditation Site Visitors

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is now accepting applications for an AASM Accreditation Site Visitor to perform accreditation duties as an independent contractor of the AASM.

AASM Application for Accreditation Now Available Online

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Beginning this week, sleep facilities interested in applying for accreditation have the option of completing and submitting the application entirely online by visiting the AASM Web site.

Last Chance to Register for Behavioral Sleep Medicine Course is Tuesday, March 16

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Registration is now open for the AASM's Behavioral Sleep Medicine: An Introduction to the Psychology of Sleep Medicine course, to be held March 20-21, 2010, at the Hyatt Lodge in Oak Brook, Illinois.

Medicare Physician Payment Rates Receive Temporary Extension

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The "Temporary Extension Act of 2010" includes provisions to extend 2009 Medicare physician payment rates through the end of the month.

Earn CME Credits Online Through SLEEP and JCSM

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Stay up to date on current developments in the science of sleep research and sleep medicine and earn continuing medical education (CME) credits online by reading SLEEP and the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.

AASM Recognizes Top Member Recruiters

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Congratulations to the AASM's top Member-Get-A-Member Campaign recruiters for the month of February.

SLEEP 2010 Preliminary Program Delivered to Members with March Issue of SLEEP

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Members of the AASM and Sleep Research Society who receive a printed version of the journal SLEEP will receive a copy of the program with the March issue of the journal.

Study Suggests that Extremes in Sleep Duration are Related to Increases in Abdominal Fat in Minority Young Adults

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

This is the first study to describe the longitudinal effect of sleep duration on changes in CT-derived abdominal fat deposits in a large minority cohort.

Study Finds that Frequent Napping is Associated with Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes in Older Adults

Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Frequent napping is associated with an elevated prevalence of type 2 diabetes and impaired fasting glucose in an older Chinese population.

White House Releases $950 Billion Health Reform Proposal

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

This week President Obama released his proposal for health system reform.

Senate Approves Jobs Bill, Would Delay 21% Medicare Reimbursement

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Senate voted 70-28 to approve a $15 billion jobs bill.

Physicians Working Fewer Hours

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Physicians have reduced their average weekly hours from 55 in 1996 to 51 in 2008, after two decades of remaining mostly unchanged.

AASM Releases New Customizable Training Resource on Sleep Study Scoring

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Scoring of Sleep: Sleep Education Tool (SET) allows centers to provide course-based learning to a group of technologists at your facility.

Section-Based Course Itineraries for SLEEP 2010 Posted on Meeting Web Site

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2010 attendees can download several suggested itineraries that have been developed to coincide with the focus of AASM and Sleep Research Society membership sections.

Number of Medical Schools Expected To Increase at Highest Rate in 40 Years

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Nearly two dozen new medical schools are scheduled or plan to open soon across the U.S., the highest number in roughly 40 years.

NIH Seeks Applications Related to the Mechanisms of Behavior Change

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The NIH Common Fund has announced a new initiative for Research Project Grant (R01) applications that will improve understanding of the basic mechanisms of behavior change.

A Technologist's Introduction to Sleep Disorders: New Reference Manual from the AASM

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM's new reference manual, A Technologist's Introduction to Sleep Disorders, will help sleep technologists gain a greater understanding of sleep disorders.

SLEEP 2010 Preliminary Program Available Online: General Registration and Housing Now Open

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A complete preliminary program for the SLEEP 2010 24th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS) is now available on the meeting's Web site.

AASM Online Membership Directory is Now Available

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A searchable edition of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) Membership Directory is now available online.

Severe Sleep Apnea Decreases Frequency of Nightmare Recall

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

This is the first large study to address both reported dream and nightmare recall frequency in a clinically evaluated sample of patients with a high frequency of severe OSA.

Sleep Problems and Sleepiness Increase the Risk of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Adolescents

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Sleepiness at the wheel and poor sleep quality significantly increase the risk of motor vehicle accidents in adolescents.

Final Application Deadline for the Inaugural CPSGT Exam Has Been Extended to Feb. 23

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The BRPT will offer the certificate-level CPSGT exam for the first time during a March 15-27 testing window.

CMS Estimates that Health Care Spending Was Up to 17.3 Percent of GDP in 2009

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In 2009 the health share of gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to have increased 1.1 percentage points to 17.3 percent - the largest single-year increase since 1960.

APA Proposed Draft Revisions for DSM-5 are Available Online for Review and Comment

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

As part of the development process for the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), the preliminary draft revisions to the current diagnostic criteria for psychiatric diagnoses are now available online for public review and comment.

Submit a Membership Section Chair Application by Friday, Feb. 26

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is currently accepting interest forms for membership section chairs.

Broaden Your Professional Interests: Volunteer for an AASM Committee by March 3

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine invites members to participate on a standing committee.

Last Chance to Register by Monday, Feb. 15, for Current Topics & Business Courses

Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Current Topics in Sleep Medicine and The Business of Sleep Medicine courses

Mental Health Parity Interim Rules Issued

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

New federal regulations mandate that group health insurance plans provide benefits for mental health and addiction services equal to benefits for medical and surgical services.

Senate Passes Legislation that Could Lead to Five-Year Medicare Physician Payment Fix

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Senate recently passed legislation that would set the stage to avoid a scheduled 21 percent payment cut to the Medicare doctor payment rate.

ASMF Delivers Nearly $20,000 to Doctors Without Borders for Haiti Relief

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The ASMF has donated 100 percent of the money raised through this campaign to Doctors without Borders, whose work will deliver vital medical care to those suffering in Haiti.

Free Webinar Introducing the AASM's New Inter-scorer Reliability Testing Program is Feb. 9

Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The free Introduction to the AASM's Inter-scorer Reliability Testing Program webinar will be held Feb. 3.

Study Suggests that Healthy Adults May Need Less Sleep as They Age

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Healthy aging appears to be associated with reductions in the sleep duration and depth required to maintain daytime alertness.

Study Finds Reduced Brain Gray Matter Concentration in Patients with Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0500

This study is the first to assess gray matter concentration in OSA patients with both modulated and unmodulated MRI images.

Summer School of Brain Research is June 29 - July 2 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Registration for the 26th International Summer School of Brain Research is open.

In Memoriam: AAST Founding President Peter A. McGregor, RPSGT

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Peter A. McGregor, RPSGT, the founding president of the American Association of Sleep Technologists (AAST), died Jan. 23, 2010, at the age of 81.

AASM Sleep Education Blog Nominated for Best New Medical Weblog

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Sleep Education Blog was a nominee for Best New Medical Weblog as part of the 2009 Medical Weblog Awards, sponsored by Epocrates and conducted by medGadget.

SLEEP 2010 Courses and Sessions Projected to Sell Out - Register Today

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Beginning Friday, Jan. 15, 2010, registration for SLEEP 2010, the 24th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS), opens exclusively to members of the AASM and the Sleep Research Society.

Interpreting Sleep Studies - Nocturnal Spells Webinar is Feb. 5

Fri, 29 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Registration for the final two presentations in the Interpreting Sleep Studies webinar series is now open.

Early Intervention and Behavioral Treatment Helps Obese Children and Teens

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

U.S. children and teens who are obese are more likely to lose weight through early obesity screening programs and intensive behavioral treatment programs.

NIH is Accepting Applications for NICHD Director

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The NIH is seeking exceptional candidates for the position of director of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD).

Join the AASM in Supporting Haiti Earthquake Disaster Relief: Give by Jan. 29

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

In the wake of the catastrophic earthquakes in Haiti, the AASM and the American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) recognize the need for a rapid and generous response by the sleep medicine community.

Host Sites Needed for 2010 BSM Mini-Fellowship Program: Apply by Jan. 29

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is currently seeking accredited sleep centers to serve as a host institution in the three-week behavioral sleep medicine mini-fellowship program.

Application Deadline for the 2010 Behavioral Sleep Medicine Exam is Feb. 1

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM) will administer the 2010 Behavioral Sleep Medicine Exam on June 6, 2010.

Contribute to the ASMF "Building the Foundation of Sleep" Campaign by Feb. 28

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Support vital sleep research, earn a tax deduction for your contribution, and leave a lasting record of your support through your participation in the American Sleep Medicine Foundation (ASMF) Building the Foundation of Sleep campaign.

U.S. Obesity Rates Stabilize But Remain High

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A study posted online in JAMA on Wednesday indicates that in 2007-2008, the age-adjusted prevalence of obesity in the U.S. was 33.8 percent overall, with a prevalence of 32.2 percent among men and 35.5 percent among women.

Renew Your Membership to Stay Up-to-Date in the New Year

Fri, 15 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Renew your AASM membership today.

Apply by Jan. 18 to Serve as an AASM Course Chair

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is accepting applications from members who are interested in serving a two-year term as the chair of an AASM Sleep Education Series course.

NIH Announces Short-term Mentored Career Development Awards in Basic Behavioral & Social Sciences

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Applications are invited for short-term mentored career development (K18) awards in the basic behavioral and social sciences research (b-BSSR) from three months to one year in duration.

CMS Report: Health Care Spending Growth Slowed in 2008

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

U.S. health care spending growth slowed in 2008 to 4.4 percent - the slowest rate of growth over the past 48 years.

CMS Issues Standards Defining "Meaningful Use" of Electronic Health Records (EHRs)

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) officials recently released proposed regulations defining the "meaningful use" of electronic health records.

Review Current Issues in State Legislation During FREE AASM Webinar on Jan. 14

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

As a benefit of membership, the AASM, together with the American Association of Sleep Technologists (AAST), will host a free webinar reviewing current issues in state legislation.

Entry Deadline for AASM High School Topical Review in Sleep Science Contest is Jan. 15

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The 2009 – 2010 AASM High School Topical Review in Sleep Science Contest

Submission Deadline for ASMF Educational Projects & Strategic Research Awards is Jan. 15

Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The 2010 grant cycle of the Educational Projects and Strategic Research Awards

NIH Announces R01 and RC4 Funding Opportunities

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The NIH announced three funding opportunities that may be of interest to sleep and circadian researchers.

Regulations Finalized for Sleep Technologists in New Mexico

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The New Mexico Medical Board recently finalized the regulatory language addressing licensure requirements for sleep technologists.

Study Links Restless Leg Syndrome with Erectile Dysfunction in Older Men

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

A study shows that erectile dysfunction was more common in older men with restless leg syndrome (RLS) than in those without RLS.

Earlier Bedtimes May Help Protect Adolescents Against Depression and Suicidal Thoughts

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Adolescents with bedtimes that were set earlier by parents were significantly less likely to suffer from depression and to think about committing suicide.

Apply by Jan. 8 to Serve as an AASM Representative on the APSS Program Committee

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM is accepting applications from members who are interested in serving as an AASM representative on the Associated Professional Sleep Societies LLC (APSS) Program Committee.

Call for AASM Awards: Nominations Are Due by Friday, Jan. 8

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Each year at the SLEEP Annual Meeting, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) recognizes members of the field who have made indelible professional contributions to sleep medicine.

Volunteer to Serve as a Host Site for 2010 Mini-Fellowship Program for International Scholars

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM invites AASM-accredited sleep centers to serve as a host site for the 2010 Mini-Fellowship Program for International Scholars

Apply by Jan. 8 for the AASM Mini-Fellowship Program for Behavioral Sleep Medicine

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM Mini-Fellowship Program for Behavioral Sleep Medicine

U.S. House of Representatives Passes Defense Bill with Temporary Medicare Payment Fix

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The House on Wednesday voted 395-34 to approve a $636.3 billion defense appropriations bill (HR 3326) that contains measures to delay cuts in Medicare reimbursement rates.

NIH Requests Health Disparities & Glycosciences Applications, Announces School Policies Program

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

NIH Requests Health Disparities & Glycosciences Applications, Announces School Policies Program

AASM National Office Announces Holiday Hours

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Holiday hours

New Reference: A Technologist's Guide to Performing Sleep Studies

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM, in a joint effort with the American Association of Sleep Technologists (AAST), recently published A Technologist's Guide to Performing Sleep Studies.

Obesity Increases the Risk for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Adolescents, But Not in Younger Children

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Being overweight or obese increases the risk for developing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adolescents but not in younger children.

Insomnia Symptoms Linked with Medical Complaints in Young School-Aged Children

Tue, 15 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

This study is the first to explore the comorbidity of medical complaints and insomnia symptoms in a community sample of young school-aged children.

Changes in CMS DME Policy Coverage Go Into Effect Jan. 1

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

On Jan. 1, 2010, additional coverage requirements in the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Durable Medical Equipment (DME) coverage policy will go into effect for all sleep tests.

Time is Running Out for AASM Early-Bird Renewal Offers

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Early renewal offer for AASM members

Deadline for SLEEP 2010 Abstract Submissions is Tuesday, Dec. 15

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2010 Abstract Submission

Invitation from the President to Submit an Application for a Position on the Board of Directors

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

I invite interested members to consider service on the Board of Directors and submit application materials for consideration.

Senate Begins Debate on Health System Reform Bill

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Last week, the full Senate began what promises to be a lengthy debate over an $849 billion bill (HR 3590) to overhaul the healthcare industry.

NIH Announces OSA, Cancer Funding Opportunities

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

NIH funding opportunity announcements

NHLBI Appoints Acting Director

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Susan B. Shurin, MD, who had been deputy director of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute since February 2006, became acting director of the NHLBI on Dec. 1, 2009.

2010 Physician Fee Schedule Final Rule Webinar is Thursday, Dec. 17

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The 2010 Physician Fee Schedule, the Final Rule webinar will be Thursday, Dec. 17, 2009, at 12 p.m. CST.

Study Shows Dream-Enacting Behavior is Common in Healthy Young Adults

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Dream-enacting behaviors are common in healthy young adults, and the prevalence of specific behaviors differs between men and women.

Study Shows that Adults Have Dreamlike Thoughts during Sleepwalking and Sleep Terrors Episodes

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Short, unpleasant, dreamlike mental activity occurs during sleepwalking and sleep terrors episodes, suggesting that people with these sleep disorders may be acting out dreamlike thoughts.

Sleep Changes Predict the Onset of Physical Changes Associated with Puberty

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0500

This is the first longitudinal study to focus on sleep and puberty that employed objective sleep measures obtained in natural home environments.

Deadline for SLEEP 2010 Session Proposals Extended to Monday, Dec. 7

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Individuals may begin submitting abstracts and session proposals for SLEEP 2010.

Reid Unveils "The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act"

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

HR 3590

Obesity a Growing and Expensive National Problem

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Obesity report

NIH Issues Call for CAM Applications, Obesity Program Announcement

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

NIH call for applications and program announcement

National Office Hours for Thanksgiving Holiday Announced

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The national offices will reopen at 8 a.m. CST on Monday, Nov. 30, 2009.

Health System Reform Legislation Moves to the Senate

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The House of Representatives approved the Affordable Health Care for America Act (HR 3962).

The AASM Recognizes Its Top Member Recruiters

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Get more information about how to participate in the 2009 AASM Member-Get-A-Member Campaign.

Enforcement Date for "Red Flags" Rule Extended Again

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has delayed the enforcement date of the "red flags" rule until June 1, 2010, for financial institutions and creditors.

House to Consider Medicare Payment Fix

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

House Democrats have introduced legislation (HR 3961) that would end the yearly ritual of canceling automatic cuts in Medicare physician payment rates after the Senate failed to do so last month.

AASM Webinar on Portable Monitoring is Friday, Nov. 13

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Friday, Nov. 13, 2009, the AASM will host a Portable Monitoring webinar.

Apply for the AASM's Young Investigator Research Forum by Dec. 1

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The second Young Investigator Research Forum to be held on April 14-15, 2010

Study Shows that Sleep Deprivation Can Negatively Affect Information Processing

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

This is the first study to analyze the effects of sleep deprivation on information categorization.

Study Shows that Sleep Disturbances Improve After Retirement

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0500

This study is the first to examine the trajectories in sleep disturbances before and after retirement over an extended time window.

Nabel to Leave NHLBI for Brigham and Women's/Faulkner Hospitals in Boston

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Elizabeth G. Nabel, MD, will step down as director of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) to become president of Brigham and Women's/Faulkner Hospitals in Boston.

House Health Reform Bill Unveiled

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

House Democratic leaders this week unveiled final health system reform bill (HR 3962).

NIH Welcomes Proposals for 2010 NIH Director's Transformative Research Projects Program

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

NIH Roadmap Transformative Research Awards provide up to $25 million total costs per year for a single project.

California Passes Senate Bill 132 - Certification for Sleep Technologists

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

On Oct. 23, 2009, Senate Bill 132 (SB 132) was signed into law by Governor Schwarzenegger.

Supplementary A-STEP Scoring Modules Released by the AASM

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM has developed four supplementary modules to the Accredited Sleep Technologist Education Program (A-STEP).

Part B Premiums Will Rise by 15 Percent in 2010

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Premiums for Medicare Part B, which covers physician services, will increase by 15 percent next year to $110.50 per month.

Physician Payment Fix Stalled in Senate

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Efforts to pass a bill (S 1776) that would permanently fix physician payments under Medicare have been stalled in the Senate.

Chesson Confirmed as Dean of LSU School of Medicine in Shreveport

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM congratulates Andrew L. Chesson Jr., MD, who was confirmed earlier this week as Dean of the LSU School of Medicine in Shreveport.

Prepare for the Nov. 19 ABMS Exam with AASM Resources

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM offers several valuable resources to help you review and prepare for the American Board of Medical Specialties examination in sleep medicine.

Revised ICD-10-CM/PCS Fact Sheet from CMS

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The ICD-10-Clinical Modification/Procedure Coding System Fact Sheet

Bill to Fix SGR Introduced in Congress

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

S. 1776, the "Medicare Physicians Fairness Act of 2009"

Fogarty International Research Program Seeks Graduate-Level Applicants

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Fogarty International Clinical Research Scholars Program is an opportunity to experience a year of mentored research training at a top-ranked, NIH-funded research center in a developing country in Africa, Asia, South America or the Caribbean.

New NHLBI Funding Opportunities

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Two new funding opportunity announcements from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

SRS Club Hypnos, Sleep and Circadian Biology DataBlitz are Oct. 19

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The annual Sleep Research Society Club Hypnos reception and the 2009 Sleep and Circadian Biology DataBlitz will take place at Neuroscience 2009.

SRS President, Member Elected to the Institute of Medicine

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM congratulates Sleep Research Society President Clifford B. Saper, MD, PhD, and SRS member Amita Sehgal, PhD, who are among the 65 new members elected to the Institute of Medicine.

Interpreting Sleep Studies Course is Next Weekend, Oct. 23-25

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Interpreting Sleep Studies will be held October 23-25, 2009

Improved Diet and Exercise Alone are Unlikely to Cure Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Obese Patients

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

A study shows that while a strict diet and exercise program may benefit obese patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), it is unlikely to eliminate the condition.

Deadline Extended: Submit SLEEP 2010 Session Proposals by Oct. 20 for Section Review

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Get feedback about your session proposal for SLEEP 2010 before you submit it to the APSS Program Committee.

BCBS Data Breach Affects Physicians

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

A file containing identifying information for every physician in the country contracted with a Blue-affiliated insurance plan was on a laptop computer stolen from a BlueCross BlueShield Association (BCBSA) employee.

AASM Discusses Accreditation Standard with AAST, AARC

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Standard B-9 of the AASM Standards for Accreditation

Congressional Budget Office Score of Bill Expected, Vote Likely this Week

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Congressional Budget Office (CBO) analysis of the Senate Finance Committee health system reform bill

National and Local Coverage Determination Webinar is Thursday, Oct. 15

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep Medicine Practice Series: National and Local Coverage Determination (NCDs and LCDs) Webinar

AASM 2010 Member-Get-A-Member Campaign

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The 2010 AASM Member-Get-A-Member Campaign

Office of the Inspector General Will Examine Medicare Payments for Sleep Studies in 2010

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Last week, the Office of the Inspector General (OIG) released its 2010 Federal Work Plan.

Submit SLEEP 2010 Session Proposal Letter of Intent by Oct. 15

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The APSS Program Committee requests early submission of a brief letter of intent to submit a postgraduate course, symposium, clinical workshop or discussion group proposal for the SLEEP 2010 24th Annual Meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies.

Submit Applications for 2010 ASMF Grants by Oct. 15

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The ASMF is pleased to announce the call for proposals for the 2010 grant cycle.

New Medicare Commission Remains in Bill Despite Opposition

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Senate Finance Committee approved amendments to a proposal within its health system reform bill that would create a new Medicare commission to rein in the program's spending growth.

House Passes Freeze on Increasing Medicare Part B Premiums

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Last week the U.S. House of Representatives passed a bill that would freeze Medicare Part B premiums in 2010 for 11 million seniors.

New HIPAA Breach Notification Rule

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

New regulations effective Sept. 23, 2009, require all physicians who are covered by HIPAA to notify patients if there are breaches of security involving their medical information.

Interpreting Sleep Studies Webinar is Wednesday, Oct. 14

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Indications for Polysomnography in Adults and Children

American Academy of Sleep Medicine Sponsors Contest for High School Students

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

First-place prize includes $1,000 and a trip to SLEEP 2010 in San Antonio, Texas.

Final Board Review Study Session Webinar is Oct. 9

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Board Review Study Session webinars help candidates prepare for the American Board of Medical Specialties examination in sleep medicine.

Alcoholism’s Effect on Sleep Persists During Long Periods of Sobriety

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The study is the first to show that the impact of alcoholism on sleep is similar in both men and women.

Study Shows that Elderly Women Sleep Better than They Think, Men Sleep Worse

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 -0500

A study shows that elderly women sleep better than elderly men even though women consistently report that their sleep is shorter and poorer.

Biosketch of Dr. Clete Kushida, 2009 - 2010 AASM President

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Biosketch of AASM President Dr. Clete Kushida

NICHD Director to Step Down

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

On Sept. 30, 2009, Duane Alexander, MD, will leave his position as director of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

The Million Med March on Washington

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

At noon on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2009, physicians will gather on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., for what is being called the Million Med March.

CBO Analysis of the Senate Finance Committee Proposal

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Congressional Budget Office's preliminary estimates for the Senate Finance Committee's health systems reform bill

Senate Finance Committee Submits Amendments to Health Systems Reform Bill

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Last week, members of the Senate Finance Committee submitted 564 amendments to the health systems reform bill submitted by Chairman Max Baucus.

Covidien Sells Sleep Diagnostics Assets to Embla

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

On Monday medical device maker Covidien reported that it had completed the sale of its sleep diagnostics assets to Embla Systems.

Submit SLEEP 2009 CME Claims by Oct. 1

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The deadline to claim credits for SLEEP 2009 is 4 p.m. CDT on Thursday, Oct. 1, 2009.

JCSM Accepted for the Science Citation Index

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, the official publication of the AASM, has been accepted by Thomson Reuters for coverage in its Science Citation Index Expanded.

Apply for AAN Sleep Science Award by Nov. 2

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The AAN invites nominations and applications for its 2010 Sleep Science Award.

2009 National Health Insurer Report Card

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The American Medical Association (AMA) recently published its National Health Insurer Report Card (NHIRC).

Obama Calls for Examination of Malpractice Reforms, State-Level Pilot Programs

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

President Obama called for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to examine possible changes to the medical malpractice system.

Survey Shows Majority of Physicians Support Public Plan Option

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

A large majority of U.S. physicians support a government-run public plan option.

Senate Finance: Baucus Unveils Bill, Draws Criticism from Both Parties

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Senate Finance Committee Chair Max Baucus (D-Mont.) formally released the committee's health systems reform bill.

Census Releases New Data on Number of Uninsured Americans

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The number of people without health insurance coverage rose from 45.7 million in 2007 to 46.3 million in 2008.

NIH Director Hosts Town Hall Meeting

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Francis Collins, MD, PhD, the new director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), last week held an open forum with constituents.

HHS Hosts Open Door Forum on H1N1 for Physicians and Health Professionals

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Next week, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will host an open door forum addressing the H1N1 virus.

Bipartisan "Gang of Six" Releases Draft Framework for Health Care Reform

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Six key members of the Senate Finance Committee on Sept. 8 released a preliminary draft framework for health care reform.

President Obama Addresses Congress, Nation on Health Care

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

President Obama outlined to a joint session of Congress his proposal for reforming the U.S. health care system.

New R01 Grant Opportunity Available from NIH

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The NIDDK and the NHLBI announced a call for applications for a new research program involving sleep diseases.

SLEEP 2010 Call for Abstracts and Session Proposals Now Available Online!

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The APSS Program Committee invites you to become an integral part of SLEEP 2010 by submitting an abstract or coordinating and submitting a session proposal.

Holiday Hours Announced for National Office

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

National office closings in observance of Labor Day

Chemotherapy for Breast Cancer is Associated with Disruption of Sleep-Wake Rhythm in Women

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

This study is the first to longitudinally assess the evolution of circadian rhythms of cancer patients prior to and during chemotherapy.

Workplace Bullying is Associated with Sleep Disturbances

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Current or past exposure to workplace bullying is associated with increased sleep disturbances.

Product Spotlight: Narcolepsy - Evaluation and Treatment, CD-ROM

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

One of six professional slide sets developed by the AASM Sleep Education Series; the Narcolepsy Slide Set was designed to serve as the foundation for a teaching curriculum on recognizing and treating narcolepsy.

SRS Offers Basics of Sleep Guide, Second Edition for Exam Preparation

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

With the American Board of Medical Specialties examination in sleep medicine approaching, the Basics of Sleep Guide, second edition is an invaluable tool for those preparing to take the exam.

AASM Remembers Sen. Kennedy

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine joins nation in mourning Senator Edward Kennedy and remembering his legacy.

Seats Still Available for the AAST Scoring of Sleep Workshops

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

AAST Sleep Scoring Workshops

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia Improves Sleep and Pain in People with Osteoarthritis

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Findings uniquely demonstrate the long-term durability of cognitive behavioral therapy effects for comorbid insomnia.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is Prevalent in Adults with Down Syndrome

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Adults with Down syndrome also frequently suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Head of FDA Medical Device Division Resigns

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Daniel Schultz, who led FDA's medical device division for five years, said Tuesday he will step down from his position.

Status Update: Health Systems Reform Legislation

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

False claims about some provisions in the health reform legislation are being spread by opponents in an attempt to derail reform legislation.

Product Spotlight: NEW! Essential Readings in Sleep Medicine

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Essential Readings in Sleep Medicine is a collection of readings from the journals SLEEP and Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.

Sleep Technology Legislation Signed Into Law in North Carolina

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

North Carolina House Bill 819 (HB 819), the Polysomnography Practice Act, was signed by Governor Bev Perdue on Friday, August 7.

Register Today for "Incident To" A Physician's Services Webinar

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Advance Beneficiary Notice of Non-coverage webinar

Sleep for Success this School Year

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Back to school, back to sleep

Federal Agents Arrest More Than 30 in Medicare Fraud Raids

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Federal agents arrested more than 30 suspects in a major Medicare anti-fraud operation.

New Document Development Process Launched

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Board of Directors has created a new standing committee, the Documents Review Committee.

Temporary Moratorium Announced for Accreditation Standard Affecting Respiratory Therapists

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Standard B-9 of the AASM Standards for Accreditation

Study Finds Increased “Sibling Risk” of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Children

Sat, 01 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

A study of the entire pediatric population of Sweden shows that the sibling risk of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is extremely high in both boys and girls.

Poor Sleep in Children May Have Prenatal Origins

Sat, 01 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Prenatal Origins of Poor Sleep in Children

Subjective Symptoms of Sleep Quality and Daytime Sleepiness Are Associated with Declining Quality of Life

Sat, 01 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Longitudinal Evaluation of Sleep-Disordered Breathing and Sleep Symptoms with Change in Quality of Life: The Sleep Heart Health Study (SHHS)

AMA Releases FAQ Document for H.R. 3200

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

H.R. 3200, the America's Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009

Poll: Obama Most Trusted To Overhaul Health Care

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Health care reform

Get an Introduction to Dental Sleep Medicine

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Introduction to Dental Sleep Medicine will be held twice: October 10 - 11, 2009, in New Orleans, La., and November 7 - 8, 2009, in Orlando, Fla.

Last Day to Submit Speaker Recommendations for SLEEP 2010

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The APSS Program Committee is requesting recommendations from AASM and SRS members for keynote speakers and invited lecturers.

House and Senate: Democrats Introduce Reform Bill

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

House Democrats unveiled their health reform bill (HR 3200)

President Obama Nominates New Surgeon General

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

President Obama nominated Regina Benjamin, MD, as the next U.S. Surgeon General.

Warning: New Program Falsely Claims Equivalency to A-STEP

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

A-STEP

AASM Breaks Ground for New Headquarters

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Construction on the new AASM headquarters

Registration Now Open for New AAST Scoring Workshop

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Scoring Workshop, an in-person, in-depth and interactive session designed for sleep technologists

Obama Nominates New NIH Director

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

President Barack Obama nominated Francis S. Collins, MD, PhD, as Director of the NIH.

AASM Announces Two New Educational Resources

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM introduces Essential Readings in Sleep Medicine and Handbook for Scoring.

New Legislation in Florida Amends Self-Referral Act

Mon, 06 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

On June 24, Florida Senate Bill 1986 was signed into law by Governor Charlie Crist.

Impact Factor for Journal SLEEP Announced

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The 2008 impact factor for SLEEP is 4.475.

New Standards for Accreditation in Effect

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The revised Standards for Accreditation and Application for Accreditation took effect July 1, 2009.

CMS Proposes Medicare Payment, Policy Changes for Physicians’ Services in 2010

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

CMS announced today proposed changes to policies and payment rates for services to be furnished during calendar year (CY 2010).

Poor Sleep is Independently Associated with Depression in Postpartum Women

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Sleep may act as a moderator between risk factors for depression and the onset of depression in women vulnerable to sleep changes during the postpartum period.

Biomarker of Breathing Control Abnormality is Associated with Hypertension and Increased Risk of Stroke

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

A distinct ECG-derived spectrographic phenotype is associated with prevalent hypertension, stroke, greater severity of sleep disordered breathing and sleep fragmentation in patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Sleep Duration is Associated with Variations In Levels of Inflammatory Markers in Women

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:00:00 -0500

This is the first large-scale study to describe the associations between measures of inflammation and sleep duration in both men and women.

Health System Reform Legislation

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Health system reform

AMA Annual Meeting

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The AMA held its Annual Meeting in Chicago June 13-17

SLEEP 2009: American Academy of Sleep Medicine Award Recipients

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Recipients of the 2009 American Academy of Sleep Medicine Awards

James A. Rowley Receives Excellence in Education Award

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

James A. Rowley, MD, received the 2009 Excellence in Education Award from the AASM.

Alejandro Chediak Receives the Mark O. Hatfield Public Policy Award

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Alejandro Chediak, MD, received the 2009 Mark O. Hatfield Public Policy Award from the AASM.

David P. White Receives the William C. Dement Academic Achievement Award

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

David P. White, MD, received the 2009 William C. Dement Academic Achievement Award from the AASM.

Micahel J. Sateia Receives the Nathaniel Kleitman Distinguished Service Award

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Michael J. Sateia, MD, received the 2009 Nathaniel Kleitman Distinguished Service Award from the AASM.

Update: Presidential Task Force on Selection of AASM Board of Directors and Officers

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Presidential Task Force on Selection of AASM Board of Directors and Officers

AASM Time Capsule: Leave Your Mark in Sleep Medicine History

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The AASM will shortly break ground on a new building.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Occurring during REM Sleep Is Significantly Associated with Type 2 Diabetes

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

This study is the first to examine the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea and type 2 diabetes in a predominately African-American and Hispanic population.

Common Complaints of Fatigue and Tiredness in People with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Substantially Improve with CPAP Treatment

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

This study is the first to demonstrate that fatigue and tiredness can improve after adequate treatment with CPAP therapy.

Health System Reform: Legislation Close to Introduction

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Legislative proposals for healthcare reform are poised to be introduced.

NEW! Board Review Study Session Webinar Archived Series

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Board Review Study Session webinars

SLEEP 2009 Commences This Weekend in Seattle

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

SLEEP 2009 final program

New Legislation in Oklahoma Addresses Sleep Diagnostic Testing

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Senate Bill 810 (SB 810), the “Oklahoma Sleep Diagnostic Testing Regulation Act”

Hours for National Office During SLEEP 2009 Announced

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Office hours during SLEEP 2009

Awakening During REM Sleep Results in Negative Mood and Self-Appraisal

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Sex differences in sleep-related memory and mood regulation

Consumption of Highly Caffeinated Beverages and Late-Night Technology Use Results in Poor Sleep for Adolescents