LINCOLN COUNTY MEDICAL CENTER

Lincoln County Medical Center Launches New Sleep Study Lab

Lincoln County Medical Center (LCMC) is expanding its clinical services with the launch of a dedicated Sleep Study Lab—an important step in improving access to specialty care for residents of Lincoln County and the greater Ruidoso region. In December, the LCMC Board of Directors approved the proposal to implement the program, including the purchase of specialized equipment and facility upgrades.

Quality sleep is essential to overall health. Untreated sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and insomnia are linked to higher rates of hypertension, diabetes, and conditions that already disproportionately impact many New Mexicans.

In rural areas, factors such as limited access to specialty care, long travel distances, and higher rates of chronic disease can make sleep disorders both more common and more difficult to diagnose. By offering sleep studies locally, LCMC helps remove a significant barrier to care and supports earlier diagnosis and treatment.

Recent data shows strong demand for sleep studies among residents. Until now, many patients were required to travel long distances for in-lab sleep diagnostics—often delaying care or forgoing it altogether. Establishing an in-house sleep lab allows patients to receive high-quality testing closer to home, improving access, continuity of care, and health outcomes.

Operating the lab onsite also enables LCMC to maintain direct oversight of scheduling, quality standards, and the overall patient experience. The program will be supported by the expertise of Presbyterian Medical Group, the largest sleep medicine group in New Mexico, with all physicians fellowship-trained in sleep medicine.

Program Highlights

» Referral & Scheduling: Patients must be referred by a provider in Sleep Medicine, Neurology, ENT, Pulmonology, or Pediatrics. Prior authorization is required for certain insurance plans.

» Patient Experience: The lab will offer overnight, non-invasive sleep studies using EEG and other advanced monitoring technologies. Pediatric patients must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Visitor policies are in place to ensure safety and comfort.

» Quality Assurance: The program will follow guidelines established by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, with plans to pursue formal accreditation after launch.

With the opening of the new Sleep Study Lab, LCMC is positioned to offer a truly comprehensive sleep program, including both in-home and in-lab diagnostics. This expansion reflects LCMC’s ongoing commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the community and supporting the health of Lincoln County residents.