Global health system leaders are prioritizing efficiency, productivity, and patient engagement in 2025 as they navigate financial constraints, workforce shortages, and growing consumer expectations.

A Deloitte global survey of more than 120 C-suite executives found that more than 70% view operational efficiency and productivity gains as essential areas of focus.

More than 90% of respondents said they anticipate an acceleration in the use of digital technologies this year, with half predicting a significant impact.

However, there was a notable divide between the United States and other countries—52% of non-U.S. executives expected digital transformation to play a critical role in shaping their strategies, compared to just 30% of U.S. respondents.

Approximately 70% of executives said investments in technology platforms will be crucial for improving efficiency, with 60% emphasizing the importance of upgrading core systems like electronic medical records (EMRs) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) software.

More than 40% of surveyed executives reported a moderate to significant return on their investments in generative AI (gen AI), though 37% noted it was still too early to determine its full impact.

The report noted administrative tasks remain a key area where generative AI (GenAI) could drive efficiency, helping reduce bottlenecks in appointment scheduling or medical record updates.

In addition, the use of autonomous AI agents, or "agentic AI", could streamline these tasks, allowing administrative staff to focus on higher-value activities while reducing costs.

Concerns about cybersecurity, workforce retention

Cybersecurity remains a pressing challenge as adoption and integration of digital tools continues, with more than three-quarters (78%) of survey respondents citing enhancing cybersecurity as a key priority for the year.

Workforce shortages were another significant issue, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, with more than 80% of survey respondents admitting hiring difficulties and talent shortages would be major obstacles in 2025,

This is another area where AI could step in: Deloitte's US Center for Health Solutions estimated AI-powered automation could free up 13% to 21% of nurses' time, translating to an additional 240 to 400 hours per nurse per year.

Patient expectations in the digital era

Around three-quarters (72%) of health system executives surveyed listed improving consumer experience and engagement as a top priority for 2025.

Digital platforms, patient portals, and virtual care options are transforming the way people interact with health providers, with nearly 90% of executives expecting connected care delivery to influence their strategies this year.

Meanwhile, virtual health is increasingly viewed as a solution to reduce wait times and expand care access, particularly in rural and underserved areas, however virtual health expansion also presents financial challenges.

The report noted that in some regions, such as India and Indonesia, where the nearest medical facility may be hours away, telehealth services are closing critical gaps in health care delivery.

The report suggested that health systems should conduct pricing analyses to assess the financial implications of virtual care models and optimize patient engagement strategies.

"Healthcare is at a turning point," the report concluded. "Organizations that embrace data-driven decision-making, automation, and workforce engagement strategies will be best positioned to thrive in an increasingly complex and digital health care environment."

Nathan Eddy is a healthcare and technology freelancer based in Berlin.
Email the writer: nathaneddy@gmail.com