The largest healthcare event, the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society’s (HIMSS) conference, highlights the key themes that will be most influential for the industry in the coming year. Big names in healthcare, tech giants, and startups alike present their newest innovations and fight for attention on and off the exhibit floor.

This year there was a strong focus on how innovative technologies can empower patients and create actionable insights. We attended and put together the biggest ideas and takeaways for healthcare organizations (HCOs). At HIMSS19, we saw:

  • The potential of interoperability unfolding. The amount and availability of health data is growing, signifying the importance of free-flowing data exchange between patients, providers, and payers. There was a buzz around interoperable solutions facilitating improved health and enhanced experiences but little discussion of how to enable successful data exchange to achieve these outcomes. 
  • AI working behind the scenes. In past years, vendors flaunted their AI capabilities with fancy, eye-catching presentations. This year, AI was still everywhere but less in your face and delivered more invisible, natural experiences. Various use cases for AI were demonstrated that promise to automate mundane tasks and assist in unlocking the value from data to provide care based on valuable insights. 
  • Consumerization of healthcare gaining traction. Patients bear more financial burden and choice than ever before and are starting to view healthcare like other industries. Instead of accepting the lack of choices healthcare has to offer, patients are making the shift to consumerism, and the industry is taking notice. HCOs displayed tools and technology that make care more accessible and arm consumers with the information necessary to take charge of their health and wellness. 

New technologies and evolving consumer demands demonstrate the importance of understanding and accepting the shifting landscape to deliver personalized healthcare. Read about more key takeaways from the conference in our new brief, “HIMSS19: Interoperability Will Drive More Personalization In Healthcare.”

Questions, comments, or want to share your thoughts on HIMSS? Wondering how this will affect your strategy? We are always happy to connect via inquiry or briefing.