BRPT Board Approves Computer-Based Testing

McLean, VA - August 8, 2005

The Board of Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT) has approved a change to computer-based testing for the RPSGT exam, along with several far reaching certification and recertification program changes for 2006 and a collaborative effort with the Association of Polysomnographic Technologists (APT) and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) to advance the sleep profession as a distinct allied health field.

RPSGT Exam Converts to Computer-Based Testing and increases the number of testing periods, effective January 2006

BRPT has formed a relationship with Pearson VUE, a leading professional electronic testing company that will oversee the conversion from paper and pencil-based testing to computer-based testing for the RPSGT examination. The first exam administration in this format will occur March, 2006.

"The upcoming conversion to computer-based testing and the significant increase in testing sites and test dates is a major advance for BRPT as we strive to increase the opportunities for sleep technologists to obtain their RPSGT credential, the highest standard in the industry," said Mark DiPhillipo, president of BRPT.

The exam will now be given at more than 200 Pearson VUE authorized professional testing sites in the U.S. and its territories, and over 170 additional locations worldwide during two-week testing periods four times a year. In addition to greater availability of testing sites and times, candidates will also have the flexibility to reschedule their exam up to 48 hours before the chosen exam date with no postponement fee. Test results will be made available within 48 hours after the conclusion of each two-week testing period.

According to DiPhillipo, the advanced technology available with computer-based testing will enhance the testing experience through clearer graphics, better presentation of test questions and a similar computer experience to that used on-the-job by sleep technologists. In the future this technology will allow for the use of exciting new testing techniques not possible in a paper and pencil format.

New Recertification Policies Effective March 2006

The BRPT Board has approved several new recertification policies which will go into effect January, 2006. Recertification ensures that all credentialed technologists maintain a high level of competence and stay up-to-date with evolving techniques and standards in the field of polysomnography.

The new recertification policy requires an RPSGT to recertify every five years through continuing education credits designed to provide continued competency. The Association of Polysomnographic Technologists (APT) is working with BRPT to provide continuing education credit tracking in addition to increased educational opportunities.

Any RPSGT certified under the previous10-year cycle of retesting will have the option to convert to the 5-year cycle and recertify by obtaining continuing education credits.

On-the-Job Training and Advancing Polysomnographic Technology as an Allied Health Profession

In other action approved at the June Board meeting, BRPT will join with the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and the Association of Polysomnographic Technologists (APT) to work together on several significant issues designed to promote polysomnographic technology as a recognized allied health profession; establish high standards of education and professionalism through training and certification; and ensure an adequate supply of well-trained technologists to meet current and expected needs in the field of sleep medicine. Specific action items will be coordinated between the three organizations in future meetings. Part of the effort will include the establishment of required educational pathways, standardized 80-hour didactic training programs, in-lab training with self-assessment modules, technologist databases and guidelines for requiring credentialing in conjunction with AASM accreditation, among others.

The Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT) is an independent, nonprofit certification board that cultivates the highest professional and ethical standards for polysomnographic technologists by providing an internationally recognized credential - the Registered Polysomnographic Technologist. RPSGT is respected worldwide as the leading credential for polysomnographic technologists. A growing certificant base includes RPSGTs in the United States , Canada , China , Japan and Australia . For more information, call (703) 610-9020, or visit www.brpt.org .

RPSGT™ is a registered trademark of the Board of Polysomnographic Technologists