Harrison’s sleep program was granted five-year accreditation by The American Academy of Sleep Medicine, making it the only accredited sleep center on the Olympic Peninsula and one of 616 nationwide.

Millions of Americans don’t get a good night’s sleep, yet few realize that the problem could jeopardize their health. Sleep deprivation has been linked to careless driving, poor decision-making, obesity and even depressed immune systems.

Harrison’s Sleep Disorders Center is the first in Kitsap County. Physiologic measurements evaluated in the four-bed unit are brain waves, muscle tone, and heart rate. Such exams may take much of the night to carry out, or be completed within the space of several short naps.

Dr. Akmal Sarwar oversees the Harrison lab.

“The sleep rooms are a far cry from the typical hospital room,” a hospital release said.

Queen-size beds, wall-to-wall carpeting — even a clock radio and silk flowers on the oak night stand — create a home-like atmosphere more conducive to sleeping.

According to registered sleep technologist Mark Johnson, sleep is a biological imperative — one that’s not negotiable. Harrison’s Sleep Center coordinator says understanding and treating sleep problems can be life changing, and in the vast number of cases people can see restful sleep patterns restored with treatment.

The causes of chronic poor sleep can be physical, psychological, or a combination of both. Johnson said treatment for sleep disorders may be straightforward.

“Regardless of the nature of the problem, effective treatment depends upon an accurate diagnosis,” he said, in a release.

About 20 percent of Americans suffer from sleeplessness.