The Role of the Sleep Centre in the Future of Sleep Medicine. How Should It Be Organised? Will There Still Be Sleep Inpatients in the Future?

Abstract

Sleep medicine centres play a pivotal role in diagnosing, treating and researching sleep disorders, with structures that range from large, university-based institutions to smaller, community-led clinics. These centres operate at the intersection of clinical care and academic innovation, combining personalised diagnostics and therapy with the evaluation and integration of emerging technologies. As the demand for sleep-related healthcare continues to grow, sleep centres must evolve to accommodate both increasing patient loads and rapid technological advancements. Outpatient departments serve as critical entry points for patients, enabling structured assessments through consultations, questionnaires and objective tools such as actigraphy and home polygraphy. These are increasingly complemented by digital solutions, including telemedicine, automated sleep diaries and remote prescription management. Such tools improve accessibility, streamline workflows and enhance continuity of care. Despite technological progress, sleep laboratories remain indispensable for diagnosing complex disorders like sleep apnea and hypersomnias, where in-lab polysomnography and real-time therapy adjustments are essential. However, advances in portable and wearable devices are creating viable home-based alternatives for selected cases, contributing to reduced lab wait times and broader patient reach. Research and education are foundational to advancing the field. Ongoing updates to sleep medicine curricula, alongside rigorous clinical studies on novel diagnostics and AI tools, ensure that care remains evidence-based and future-ready. Sleep centres, as multidisciplinary hubs, will continue to merge clinical practice, innovation and training-shaping a future where sleep healthcare is more personalised, data-driven and accessible without compromising quality or equity. Together, these developments signal a transformative era in sleep medicine, where integrated, technology-enhanced care will redefine how we understand, diagnose and treat sleep disorders.