Embracing the challenge: fostering interest in sleep medicine among internal medicine residents.

Study objectives: This study aimed to investigate the perception and interest of internal medicine residents in sleep medicine. The focus was on understanding the current state of knowledge, training adequacy, and the inclination of residents toward pursuing sleep medicine subspecialty training.

Methods: We used the Indiana University Survey Questionnaire, a validated survey, to assess internal medicine residents' perceptions of sleep medicine. The anonymous digital survey was administered to residents at our Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education-accredited internal medicine training program.

Results: Of the 61 residents, 52 (85%) participated. The majority recognized the burden of sleep-disordered breathing in the population and its importance for training and general practice. However, there was a notable discrepancy in their perception of receiving adequate training in sleep-disordered breathing during residency. A significant proportion expressed a neutral stance or disagreement with the idea of pursuing a sleep medicine fellowship, citing a lack of interest or comfort in managing sleep disorders.

Conclusions: Despite the rising prevalence of sleep-related breathing disorders, there exists a gap in residents' interest in specializing in sleep medicine. This underscores the need for improved sleep medicine education in residency programs. Bridging this educational gap requires curricular enhancements, increased clinical exposure, and mentorship in sleep medicine. Addressing these issues will better equip future physicians to meet the growing demands of sleep medicine and enhance overall patient care.

Citation: Irizarry-Nieves J, Rivera-Diaz A, Padilla-Diaz M, et al. Embracing the challenge: fostering interest in sleep medicine among internal medicine residents. J Clin Sleep Med. 2025;21(5):959-962.