Deloitte's 2026 Healthcare Outlook: Key Insights on AI and Partnerships

Dec 23, 2025, 2:42 AM

Hover over text to view sources

Deloitte's recent report on the 2026 Healthcare Outlook indicates a complex landscape for healthcare leaders, with significant opportunities and challenges ahead. While more than two-thirds of executives from health plans and health systems anticipate outperforming their competitors, a notable 43% express uncertainty about the industry's near-term outlook, a rise from 28% the previous year.

This uncertainty is largely attributed to policy and regulatory challenges, including the expiration of Affordable Care Act subsidies and the future of Medicare telehealth flexibilities. Alicia Janisch, Deloitte's vice chair and US healthcare sector leader, emphasized that traditional strategies may not suffice in the face of mounting financial and regulatory pressures.

Key Findings from the Report

Investment in Digital Health: The report highlights a strong consumer preference for digital healthcare options. Over 90% of consumers who have experienced virtual health visits are open to using these services again. Additionally, 37% of consumers utilize monitoring devices for health conditions, while 47% track fitness and health metrics. In response, about 60% of health executives plan to invest in virtual health services to enhance preventive care.

AI Adoption: The report reveals that over 80% of healthcare leaders believe generative AI and agentic AI can deliver significant value across various functions, from clinical operations to administrative tasks. However, nearly half of the organizations are still in the experimental phase with AI, and only a third are deploying it at scale. The report stresses that effective AI implementation requires enterprise-wide integration to maximize benefits.

Cross-Industry Partnerships: Approximately 80% of executives view collaboration with other sectors—such as retail and technology—as a priority. These partnerships can help address broader social and economic needs, with community-based organizations playing a crucial role in this strategy. Janisch noted the importance of looking beyond traditional healthcare boundaries to foster innovation.

Consumer Expectations and Trust

The report underscores a significant gap between consumer expectations and the current offerings of healthcare organizations. Deloitte's analysis suggests that health systems could face losses of up to $54.5 billion over the next decade if they fail to adapt to consumer demands for convenience and affordability. Trust has emerged as a critical factor, with 63% of consumers willing to switch providers if dissatisfied with communication, highlighting the need for healthcare organizations to prioritize transparency and engagement.

The Role of AI in Healthcare

AI is positioned as a transformative force in healthcare, with nearly 50% of consumers already using generative AI for health-related purposes. However, only 15% of healthcare executives report that their organizations have adapted governance structures to keep pace with technological advancements. This gap indicates a pressing need for healthcare leaders to enhance their understanding of AI and data science to remain competitive.

Conclusion

Deloitte's 2026 Healthcare Outlook presents a pivotal moment for the healthcare industry, emphasizing the necessity for organizations to evolve in response to changing consumer expectations and technological advancements. The integration of digital health solutions, AI, and strategic partnerships will be essential for healthcare leaders aiming to thrive in this dynamic environment. As the industry navigates these challenges, the focus on consumer trust and organizational agility will be crucial for long-term success.

In summary, the findings from Deloitte's report serve as a call to action for healthcare executives to rethink their strategies and embrace innovation to meet the demands of a rapidly changing landscape.

AI's Role in Enhancing Mental Health in Veterinary Medicine

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in veterinary medicine is transforming workflows and addressing mental health challenges, particularly burnout among veterinarians. AI tools streamline administrative tasks, improve client communication, and offer innovative solutions for monitoring mental well-being, ultimately enhancing job satisfaction and patient care.

Flu Cases Surge in Massachusetts: Health Tips for the Season

Flu cases are rising sharply in Massachusetts, particularly among children, prompting health officials to urge vaccinations and preventive measures. With the holiday season underway, residents are encouraged to take steps to protect themselves and their families from the flu.

Brain Activity and Food Preoccupation in Tirzepatide Users

Recent research has revealed insights into brain activity related to food preoccupation in individuals using tirzepatide, a medication for type 2 diabetes. A case study highlighted how this drug temporarily suppressed signals in the brain's reward center, potentially offering new avenues for treating eating disorders. However, the effects were not long-lasting, indicating the need for further research.

Telix Pharmaceuticals Updates on Precision Medicine Portfolio

Telix Pharmaceuticals has announced significant updates regarding its precision medicine portfolio, including positive results from a Phase 3 study of TLX591-CDx in China, and progress on NDA resubmissions for TLX101-CDx and TLX250-CDx in the US These developments are expected to enhance treatment options for prostate cancer and glioma patients.

Federal Government Sues Advocate Aurora Health Over Vaccine Policy

The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has filed a lawsuit against Advocate Aurora Health, alleging the health system discriminated against a nurse by denying her a religious exemption from the COVID-19 vaccine mandate. The lawsuit seeks reinstatement, back pay, and changes to the health system's policies.