As 2025 begins, the healthcare industry stands at a pivotal juncture. Escalating costs, evolving political priorities, an alarming frustration with claims denials, and rapid technological advancements demand a proactive and unified approach to reimagine care delivery. Providers, payers, and policymakers have a unique opportunity to address systemic inefficiencies and redefine the future of healthcare in our country. The transition to a more patient-centered model that delivers better outcomes at a lower cost — has never been more urgent. Here are trends poised to shape the coming year, each requiring immediate attention.
1. Accelerated Adoption of Risk-Based Payment Models
Rising labor costs and an increasing reliance on a government-funded payer mix are driving hospitals and health systems to adopt a more sustainable and economically viable care delivery model. Risk-based payment models — where providers are rewarded for improving outcomes and reducing costs — are emerging as an essential strategy.
As of 2024, approximately 28.5% of all healthcare payments were through “two-sided” risk models, a significant increase from previous years. Adopting financial risk is a strategic necessity for healthcare organizations as it is the only way to realize opportunities in clinical transformation. The new administration’s commitment to accountable care reinforces the urgency of this transition. Providers must leverage data analytics, care coordination, and preventive strategies to succeed in these models. The message is clear: The future of healthcare financing is tied to risk — and the time to adapt is now.
2. Integration of Artificial Intelligence Into Care Delivery
Artificial intelligence, or AI, is transitioning from a conceptual phase to a fundamental component of healthcare. AI-powered tools automate administrative tasks, analyze data to provide actionable insights, and enhance patient engagement. These innovations not only enhance accountable care but also reduce clinician burnout by managing growing patient panels more effectively, enabling providers to dedicate more time to deliver personalized, high-quality care.
AI is projected to reduce healthcare costs by billions through improved efficiency and error reduction. Additionally, conversational AI tools are expected to save the global healthcare sector $3.6 billion by 2025 by handling routine inquiries and improving patient engagement.
In the next year, we will see increased deployment of AI-enabled population health systems conducting screenings for chronic disease risk, managing social determinants of health, and facilitating virtual follow-ups after hospital discharges. These innovations extend the reach of care teams and improve efficiency, allowing doctors to focus more on their patients. Organizations that fail to embrace AI risk being left behind as technology redefines the competitive landscape.
3. Policy Shifts Reinforcing Private Sector Innovation
The current administration brings a refreshed commitment to healthcare reform, emphasizing market-driven strategies and private-sector innovation. Medicare Advantage will be central to this effort, with policies expected to expand subsidies and incentives.
Proposed leadership changes at the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) signal an intensified focus on chronic disease prevention and management. This could encourage faster adoption of new care delivery models that integrate preventive care and holistic health. Early intervention, better care coordination, and proactive management of chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease will greatly improve population health outcomes and reduce healthcare expenditures. The administration is prioritizing Medicare Advantage as a cornerstone for scaling risk-based models over payment model innovations in traditional Medicare, which could both accelerate the adoption of accountable care models but also further marginalize underserved communities if not thoughtfully considered.
4. Expansion of Health Care Consumerization
Federal policymakers will increase focus on healthcare transparency and consumerism to empower patients with clear pricing information, enabling more informed decisions and fostering competition that could lower costs across the healthcare system.
Patients are increasingly active participants in their care. In 2025, consumer expectations will drive healthcare delivery, with greater demand for convenience, transparency, and personalization. Virtual care, wearable technology, and price transparency tools will continue to reshape the patient experience.
To compete, traditional healthcare organizations must prioritize patient-centered strategies. This includes investing in digital tools to improve access and communication, as well as creating seamless experiences that meet patients where they are. Consumerization isn’t just a trend; it’s a demand for healthcare organizations to evolve and innovate to remain relevant.
A Defining Year for Health Care
2025 offers a pivotal moment to reimagine American health care. These trends — risk-based payment models, AI integration, policy reforms, private-sector innovation, and consumerism — present both challenges and opportunities.
But the stakes couldn’t be higher. Healthcare spending in the U.S. is projected to surpass $6.8 trillion by 2030, and without significant value-based reforms, inefficiencies and disparities will continue to grow.
The time to act is now. By addressing these trends head-on, we can build a system that delivers better outcomes, lower costs, and a more equitable future for all. Let’s make 2025 the year we turn vision into action and set a new standard for health care.
David Carmouche, MD, is the executive vice president & chief clinical transformation officer at Lumeris. Dr. Carmouche is a visionary leader in transformational healthcare delivery, with a unique blend of provider, payer, retail, and integrated delivery network leadership experience.
