Peace receives third statewide honor this year
CENTRAL VA – The Virginia Academy of Sleep Medicine recently honored Delegate Christopher K. Peace (R-Hanover) for his work on professional standards and patient safety in sleep medicine. Peace successfully patroned House Bill 725, a measure which requires anyone who wants to practice as a polysomnographic technologist to be licensed by the Board of Medicine. This bill also creates the Advisory Board on Polysomnographic Technology to assist the Board in establishing the qualifications, examination, and other requirements for the regulation of licensed polysomnographic technologists.
A sleep study (or polysomnogram) is a safe, painless test, which can help determine the diagnosis of a sleep problem. During the test patients are monitored by Polysomnographic Technologists while they sleep in comfortable, private bedrooms. In order to do this, electrodes are placed on the patient’s head, face and body. These leads simply record the electrical activity of their brain and muscles. Other sensors attached to the patient record breathing, and oxygen levels. During the study the information about their sleep is recorded on a computer while the patient is observed remotely with a camera.
The sleep technologist is directly involved in providing complex health care services. He or she must be able to identify significant sleep apnea and oxygen loss when it occurs and to then start positive airway pressure (continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or Bi-level positive airway pressure) therapy on an expeditious basis. The technologist recognizes serious heart rhythm abnormalities and seizures as they occur and is able initiate emergency protocols.
Speaking to the recognition, Peace stated, "Working to champion legislation which protects health care consumers is vital to access for care and continuity of services provided. I am personally aware of many local mothers and fathers whose child is misdiagnosed ADD due to sleep apnea. Improving care in this field will help many parents."
The Virginia Academy of Sleep Medicine (VASM) endeavors to educate health professionals of the Commonwealth in the discipline of sleep medicine and seeks to improve the quality of life and health of Virginians through educational and advocacy efforts. For more information visit: http://vasleepmedicine.com/
Delegate Christopher K. Peace was elected to his third term representing the 97th District of the Virginia House of Delegates. The District includes parts of Hanover, Caroline, King William, King and Queen, Henrico, Spotsylvania Counties and all of New Kent County
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