Chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, COPD, and congestive heart failure are reshaping the U.S. healthcare system — and the demand for durable medical equipment along with it. In this episode of Industry Matters, VGM's Tyler Coulander and Alan Morris dig into the data behind America's growing chronic disease burden, what it means for DME providers navigating the shift from hospital-based to home-based care, and why demand for equipment and long-term patient support is more resilient than ever. They also tackle the big GLP-1 question: do drugs like Ozempic threaten CPAP and diabetes equipment markets, or do they actually open new doors? Tune in for a high-level look at the forces driving industry growth — and check out the VGM Industry Insights library for a deeper dive into the data.

Watch the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/rwZAg90E3d8

In this episode of Industry Matters, Ted Metcalf, VP of Clinical Mobility and Accessibility at VGM, sits down with Cody Verrett, VP of Sales at Permobil Americas, to explore how Permobil is transforming the complex rehab technology space. Cody walks us through the Permobil Store — a real-time 3D wheelchair configurator that lets ATPs spec out ultralight manual and power chairs, share live visuals with clients, and eliminate costly rework. They discuss Permobil's investment in a state-of-the-art Nashville production facility with robotic welding and automated processes, cutting lead times to just three days for aluminum chairs and ten days for fully custom titanium products. From the integration of PDG tilt-in-space seating to 24/7 ordering and template-based workflows, this conversation covers what's driving efficiency, reducing eval-to-delivery timelines, and helping providers deliver better outcomes for their patients.

Watch this episode on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/n4h2_As-dKQ

Tyler Coulander sits down with Alan to break down the biggest themes and takeaways from Medtrade 2026 in Arizona. From the resurgence of competitive bidding and federal anti-fraud initiatives to AI innovation reshaping the DME ecosystem, they explore what these developments mean for providers and the industry at large. They also discuss the record-setting attendance growth, the surge in demand for education sessions, and the advocacy efforts underway to protect suppliers of all sizes. Whether you're a seasoned industry veteran or new to the HME space, this episode offers a forward-looking view of where the DME industry is headed in 2030 and beyond.

View the video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/U2dBjnT0x_0