Advanced Sleep Scientist at Princess Alexandra Hospital’s Sleep Disorders Centre, Kevin Hanssen has had a unique insight into the mechanics of sleeping while on the job for the past 30 years.
His interest in sleep medicine began during university as part of a clinical placement through his Masters of Clinical Physiology when it stood out as a fascinating and meaningful area within allied health.
Motivated by a desire to improve people’s health fundamentally through sleep, Kevin said it has been rewarding to see sleep gain greater recognition in the wider community as a vital component of overall wellbeing.
“It has also been incredible to witness how far technology has come, particularly in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea with smaller and more advanced CPAP devices,” Kevin said.
“Developments in AI and machine learning are set to transform how we diagnose and manage sleep disorders, and it’s exciting to be part of a field that continues to evolve.”
Kevin began his employment at PAH as a casual in the Sleep Disorders Centre in November 1995 while also gaining experience at the Gold Coast Sleep Disorders Centre and Mater Children’s Sleep Disorders Unit. Transition to a permanent full-time role at PAH in 1999 folded those hospital corners and he has been a fixture ever since.
The PAH centre has evolved over that time, growing from a modest two-bed unit with four daytime scientific staff that occasionally set up portable studies on a fold-out bed in a room across the hall, to the technological snore-fest it is today!
“There have been many highlights over the years including the privilege of contributing to sleep research, presenting at international conferences, and participating in clinical trials for new sleep medications,” Kevin said.
“But what stands out most is the people. Working alongside such a dedicated and supportive team, scientific, administrative, operational, and medical staff across both day and night shifts, makes every day rewarding.
“This camaraderie keeps things grounded and I count myself blessed to wear the affectionate nickname ‘Bald Eagle’ from colleagues, a reflection of the strong and supportive culture we share.”
He said mentoring new staff, many of whom come through the same Griffith University program that started his own journey, has also been a highlight.
“Ultimately, the most meaningful moments come from our patients. Seeing someone return after treatment and share how much their quality of life has improved or even that they say we’ve ‘saved their life’ is an incredibly rewarding and a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.”
Congratulations on 30 years making a difference Kevin.