The health care industry is poised for significant changes in 2025, driven by a combination of regulatory shifts, technological advancements, and evolving consumer behaviors. According to a recent survey by Deloitte, nearly 60% of health care executives express a favorable outlook for 2025, with 69% anticipating a rise in revenue and 71% expecting improved profitability[1].
Key trends include a shift towards patient-centric care, with providers leveraging technology to meet patients where they are in their care journey. This includes adopting tools that empower patients to access information, schedule services, and engage more actively in their health care[2]. For example, health care leaders like Calum A. MacRae, MD, vice chair for scientific innovation at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, predict that increased access to emerging technologies and personalized data will drive self-care in health and wellness, particularly in preventative medicine[2].
Regulatory changes are also on the horizon, with the incoming administration and 119th Congress expected to address laws and programs that could significantly affect health plans, health systems, and health care consumers. Regulatory uncertainty is a top concern for 44% of surveyed health care executives, who are navigating potential changes in areas such as Medicare and Medicaid fee schedules[1].
In terms of market movements, commercial health care spending growth is estimated to reach its highest level in 13 years, with PwC projecting an 8% year-on-year medical cost trend in 2025 for the Group market and 7.5% for the Individual market. This is driven by inflationary pressure, prescription drug spending, and behavioral health utilization[4].
Consumer behavior is also shifting, with a more skeptical consumer base that values quality and affordability in health care. The concept of "self-rationing" continues to be a mainstream consumer health behavior, with many individuals delaying or avoiding care due to cost-related problems[5]. However, there is also a growing adoption of digital health tools, with older adults increasingly integrating technology into their daily lives for health and fitness tracking, telemedicine, and chronic care management[5].
Health care industry leaders are responding to these challenges by focusing on organic growth strategies, improving consumer engagement and trust, and leveraging transformative technologies. For example, health plans are primarily focused on adopting transformative technologies, including gen AI, while health systems are more focused on strengthening their core legacy business technologies[1].
Overall, the health care industry is entering a period of significant change and growth, driven by technological advancements, regulatory shifts, and evolving consumer behaviors. Industry leaders are responding by prioritizing consumer-centric strategies, leveraging technology, and navigating regulatory uncertainty.
