Sleep medicine provider perceptions and attitudes regarding consumer sleep technology.

STUDY OBJECTIVES: This study assessed perceptions and attitudes of sleep medicine providers regarding consumer sleep technology (CST).

METHODS: A convenience sample of n = 176 practicing sleep medicine and behavioral sleep medicine experts was obtained using social media and the American Academy of Sleep Medicine directory. Providers completed a questionnaire that assessed perceptions and attitudes about patient use of CST in the clinical setting.

RESULTS: The sample included both adult and pediatric psychologists, physicians, and advanced practice providers from a variety of health settings. Providers reported 36% (3-95%) of patients used CST and the most common devices seen by providers were wrist-worn devices followed by smartphone apps. The most common perceived patient motivations for frequent use were to measure sleep and self-discovery. Across sleep disorders, clinicians did not endorse frequent CST use; the highest reported use was for assisting patients in the completion of sleep diaries. Overall devices were rated as somewhat accurate and neutral regarding helpfulness. In qualitative responses, providers associated CST use with increased patient engagement but increased orthosomnia and misperceptions about sleep.

CONCLUSIONS: CST is frequently encountered in the sleep medicine clinic and providers view CST as somewhat accurate but neither helpful nor unhelpful in clinical practice. Although providers viewed these devices as useful to drive patient engagement/awareness and track sleep patterns, providers also viewed them as a contributor to orthosomnia and misperceptions about sleep.