The health care industry is poised for significant changes in 2025, driven by innovation, resilience, and strategic growth. According to a recent survey by the Deloitte Center for Health Solutions, nearly 60% of industry leaders hold a favorable outlook for the year ahead, a notable increase from 52% just a year ago[1]. This surge in confidence is underscored by the 69% of US health care respondents who anticipate a rise in revenue in 2025 and the 71% who expect improved profitability.
Key trends expected to impact health care strategies in 2025 include developing growth strategies, with 65% of executives citing this as a top priority, and consumer affordability, identified by 46% of executives[1]. The industry is also seeing a shift towards supply chain consolidation, with advancements in automated technologies and AI-driven analytics bolstering the trend of consolidated service centers (CSCs)[2].
The health care supply chain is entering 2025 with momentum from CSCs, driven by the desire for greater visibility and control over inventory, economies of scale, and expanded capabilities to support new care sites. For example, Baptist Health is building a 102,000 sq. ft. central pharmacy service headquarters to serve its eight hospitals and 450 care sites[2].
However, the industry still faces significant challenges, including workforce shortages, sustainability issues, and the need for digital transformation. The adoption of information technology has been slow, despite its potential to enhance clinical decision-making, increase communication among providers and with patients, and reduce medical errors[3].
Looking ahead, key trends to watch in 2025 include customer experience, condition-specific care, measurement-based behavioral health care, and generative AI[4]. The pressure is on for US employers, whose health care spending is projected to jump by nearly 8% in 2025, the largest annual increase in more than a decade. In response, plan sponsors will focus on improving efficiency and eliminating waste in 2025[4].
The healthcare supply chain is also expected to face challenges and opportunities, including geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainties, and rapid technological innovation. Key issues such as changes in administration, Medicare and Medicaid policy adjustments, and revisions to the Affordable Care Act could impact the healthcare industry and supply chain management[5].
In conclusion, the health care industry is at a critical juncture, with a favorable outlook for 2025 driven by innovation and strategic growth. However, it must navigate challenges such as workforce shortages, sustainability issues, and the need for digital transformation. Industry leaders are responding to these challenges by focusing on growth strategies, consumer affordability, and supply chain consolidation, while also preparing for potential changes in administration and regulatory frameworks.
