It often feels like healthcare is as much about managing change as it is about keeping people well. In truth, the industry is ripe for disruption - innovation that paves the way for better delivery of care. So, what's on the horizon?

This year, we expect to see continued digital innovation and new players in the healthcare market.

Strategic Partnerships to Lower Healthcare Costs

Amazon is positioned for the biggest disruptive impact, according to healthcare leaders surveyed in the American Hospital Association's 2019 Environmental Scan. With the acquisition of PillPack, a direct-to-consumer pharmacy, and a venture with Berkshire Hathaway and JPMorgan Chase, the e-commerce giant aims to set an example by better managing employee health.

What else is on Amazon's list of priorities? Tackling hot topics like supply chain operations efficiency and information sharing platform improvement - including the latest, HIPAA-compliant voice skills on Amazon Alexa.

Consumerism

Hospital leaders agree consumerism is here to stay and has their full attention. Patients expect transparency, knowledge and control when it comes to managing their healthcare.

And yet, half of providers admit to being late digital adopters. They're still wrestling with concerns about expense and fear of overburdening staff - a risky stance. Digital advances help check the rise in health costs while enhancing the patient experience and outcomes.

Ones to Watch

Besides Amazon, Apple, Google, Microsoft and even Walmart are investing time and money in the healthcare space this year. Providers willing to ride the waves of change will reap the rewards in patient satisfaction and loyalty.

At CMG Health Marketing, we're experts at understanding consumers and how to navigate change. Contact us today.