As the complexities of patient care expand, specialization has become increasingly important to all aspects of medical practice. Over the past several decades, evidence has clearly shown that behavioral sleep medicine interventions are highly effective and an important part of multidisciplinary approach to treating sleep disorders.As the complexities of patient care expand, specialization has become increasingly important to all aspects of medical practice. Over the past several decades, evidence has clearly shown that behavioral sleep medicine interventions are highly effective and an important part of multidisciplinary approach to treating sleep disorders.

BBSM specialty certification is designed to demonstrate competency and qualifications in delivering quality behavioral sleep medicine care.  Documentation of specialized experience and skills yields the additional benefits of professional satisfaction and recognition by health care organizations and insurers.

For patients, improved outcomes in patient care are the primary purpose of specialization in any health care profession. The patient’s standard is straight-forward — “How can I know which provider is uniquely qualified to deliver effective BSM services?” As complex health care issues continue to demand a multidisciplinary approach, patients increasingly will recognize and expect the critical role of the specialty-certified providers in providing the care they need.

When a BBSM specialty certified provider applies for a position, employers can feel secure that the knowledge base and skill levels of the certified specialist they hire has been thoroughly tested. Many organizations report preferential hiring for certified specialists.  Hospitals and health care organizations increasingly require specialty certification for practice credentialing and privileges. A BBSM specialty certification in BSM brings an extra measure of quality to the hiring process demonstrating initiative and a commitment to professional excellence.

Diplomate in Behavioral Sleep Medicine (DBSM)

The Board of Behavioral Sleep Medicine offers a Diplomate in Behavioral Sleep Medicine or DBSM to applicants who meet eligibility requirements and pass a specialty BSM certification examination. Candidates who pass the certification examination may use the DBSM (Diplomate in Behavioral Sleep Medicine) designation after their name and will receive certificates from the BBSM. The DBSM represents a standard of specialty competence in behavioral sleep medicine by which the public, government and regulatory agencies, and health care organizations can identify skill and expertise.

Credentialing by the Board of Behavioral Sleep Medicine does not in itself sanction the authority to practice beyond the licensing statute granted by a state that issues a license to practice.

The DBSM designation must not be interpreted to mean that the Board of Behavioral Sleep Medicine designation supersedes any state or federal law with regard to license requirements for the BSM treatment of patients. Those who have successfully passed the exam are responsible for any and all stipulations within their practice act and must not practice outside of their legal limits.

Frequently Asked Questions