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The Rise of Alternative Sleep Therapies in 2026: Key Trends for DME Providers

Published in Member Communities on March 20, 2026

Boone Lockard, VP of HME, Respiratory, & Wellness, on the rise in alternative sleep therapies.By Boone Lockard, VP of HME, Respiratory, and Wellness, VGM & Associates

The sleep industry is undergoing a major shift in 2026 as alternative sleep therapies gain traction alongside traditional PAP. With changing patient preferences, evolving payer policies, and increased awareness of mild OSA, DME providers are seeing stronger demand for non-PAP sleep solutions, expanded care pathways, and more flexible, personalized therapy options. 

As the market shifts, providers who understand the growing role of alternative therapies, including oral appliance solutions, daytime therapy devices, and emerging sleep technologies, will be best positioned to adapt and stay competitive. This trend is reshaping how DME providers approach patient care, referral relationships, and long-term program design. 

Two Key Alternative Therapy Categories to Watch 

Oral Appliance Therapy (OAT) 

Through partners like Daybreak, providers can explore how OAT is becoming a more streamlined option for sleep patients seeking comfort, portability, or a non-nighttime device.  

Daytime Neurostimulation & eXciteOSA 

Daytime therapies like eXciteOSA, available through Spring Sleep, are drawing attention for their innovative, non-PAP approach to addressing mild OSA and snoring.  

Why This Trend Matters for DME Sleep Providers 

Alternative sleep therapies are becoming a core part of the broader 2026 sleep-care landscape. Industry conversations are increasingly focused on: 

  • Expanding therapy options beyond PAP 
  • Meeting the rising demand for personalized sleep treatment 
  • Navigating evolving coverage opportunities 
  • Strengthening patient retention with multi-therapy solutions 
  • Staying aligned with emerging clinical and payer expectations 

DME providers who understand where the market is heading will be better equipped to align their clinical workflows, referral relationships, and patient education strategies for 2026 and beyond. 

Full Article Available Only to VGM Members  

Read the full version here for guidance on:  

  • A deeper look at the 2026 alternative therapy trend 
  • Insight into what's driving this shift across the industry 
  • How these solutions fit into modern DME sleep programs 
  • Practical takeaways to position your business for growth 
  • A roadmap for evaluating and integrating new therapy options 

Become a VGM member to access the full article, exclusive offerings from vendor partners like Daybreak and Spring Sleep, and many other members-only resources. 

TAGS

  1. respiratory
  2. sleep
  3. vendor
  4. vgm

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