By 2026, global healthcare spending is projected to increase by 11.2%, fueled by technological advancements, policy shifts, and growing patient demands [1]. Are you prepared for the future of healthcare? From AI-driven diagnostics to updated Medicare regulations, 2026 will bring transformative changes impacting patients, providers, and employers. This comprehensive guide explores the top healthcare trends, policy updates, and innovations shaping 2026, providing actionable insights to navigate this evolving field. Here’s everything you need to know about healthcare changes in 2026.

Key Healthcare Trends to Watch in 2026

The healthcare industry is experiencing rapid transformation, with trends reshaping how care is delivered and financed. Here are the top healthcare trends for 2026:

• Global Medical Costs: Global medical costs are expected to rise by 11.2%, driven by specialty drugs, gene therapies, and advanced technologies [1]. Patients may face higher out-of-pocket costs, while employers could see a 9% increase in spending—the highest in over a decade [1].
• Expansion of Value-Based Care: By 2026, around 65% of providers are projected to adopt value-based care models, prioritizing patient outcomes over service volume [2]. Health services and technology spending is expected to grow at a 9% CAGR, emphasizing cost-effective care [2].
• Patient-Centric Care: Drawing inspiration from consumer tech leaders, providers will enhance personalized experiences with tailored treatment plans and seamless digital platforms [3].
• Workforce Challenges: A projected shortage of 250,000–500,000 nurses will drive increased reliance on automation and AI [4].

These trends highlight the need for proactive strategies to manage costs and embrace new care models. Patients and providers must stay informed to thrive in this dynamic environment.

New Healthcare Policies in 2026

Policy changes will significantly influence healthcare access and delivery. Here’s a breakdown:

• Medicare and Medicaid: Adjustments to Medicaid eligibility and Medicare Advantage rates (with margins at 1.5–2%) may impact millions [2]. National healthcare expenditure is projected to reach $8 trillion by 2033 [2].
• Prior Authorization: A CMS rule, fully implemented in 2026, aims to reduce prior authorization delays by 20–25% [5], easing administrative burdens and improving patient access.
• Drug Pricing Reforms: Post-2024 election debates may impact specialty drug costs, contributing to the 11.2% spending increase [6].
• ACA Evolution: Potential revisions to the Affordable Care Act could affect coverage for over 21 million Americans [6].

Staying informed about these policies will help you navigate coverage and care options effectively.

Healthcare Innovations 2026: AI, Telehealth, and Beyond

Innovations are driving healthcare’s transformation. Key advancements include:

• AI and Generative AI: AI tools have improved diagnostic accuracy for lung cancer by 17–20% [7]. AI investments are projected to reach $150–180 billion by 2026 [4].
• Telehealth Growth: Telehealth will account for 30% of visits, with 20–25% cost savings for urgent care [2].
• Precision Medicine: The market is projected to reach $175 billion by 2026 [8].
• Internet of Medical Things (IoMT): The IoMT market is expected to reach $800 billion by 2031 (21% CAGR) [7].
• Cybersecurity Investments: A 30–35% rise in data breaches since 2023 prompts enhanced cybersecurity [9].

These innovations promise better care but require adaptation to maximize their benefits.

Ethical Challenges and Global Trends

Ethical and global considerations are critical:

• Ethical Concerns: AI risks, like algorithmic bias, could lead to misdiagnoses in underserved groups [10]. Data privacy for IoMT devices is essential [11].
• Global Context: Canada’s IMAGINE SPOR Network emphasizes patient engagement [12].
• Equity Focus: About 18–20% of rural Americans lack reliable telehealth access [13].

U.S. vs. Global Healthcare Trends

Aspect	U.S.	Global
AI Adoption	75% of providers using AI [7]	Stricter regulations slow adoption [11]
Telehealth	30% of visits virtual [2]	Focus on rural access [8]
Patient Engagement	Consumer-driven [3]	Community-based models [12]

These perspectives highlight the need for ethical AI use and equitable access to ensure 2026’s changes benefit all.

Get Ready for the Future with Medviz.ai

As healthcare in 2026 brings rising costs, evolving policies, and innovations, practices are partnering with Medviz.ai to optimize revenue cycles. Medviz.ai’s AI-enhanced billing, expert support, and patient-centric approach empower providers to navigate payer policies, maximize reimbursements, and enhance satisfaction. Contact Medviz.ai at +1 (727) 214-2749 or success@medviz.ai to power your practice’s success.

References

1. Deloitte. (2025). 2025 U.S. Health Care Outlook. www2.deloitte.com
2. McKinsey & Company. (2025). What to expect in US healthcare in 2025 and beyond. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/healthcare/our-insights/what-to-expect-in-us-healthcare-in-2025-and-beyond
3. McKinsey & Company. (2025). Healthcare Systems & Services Insights. https://www.mckinsey.com/healthcare-services
4. athenahealth. (2024). Healthcare Trends 2025. https://www.athenahealth.comcare/knowledge-hub/healthcare-trends-2025
5. RXNT. (2024). How to Prepare For Healthcare Policy Changes in 2025. https://www.rxnt.com/howcare-prepare-policy-for-healthcare-policy-changes-2025/
6. Forbes. (2024). https://www.forbes.com (general coverage on ACA).
7. RXNT. (2024). 8 Emerging Trends in Healthcare Technology for 2025. https://www.rxnt.com/emerging-technology-trends-in-healthcare-technology-2025/
8. Invensis. (2023). Key Healthcare Trends to Watch for in 2025. https://www.invensis.net/blog/keycare-trends-watchcare-trends-to-watch-for-2025/
9. Chartis. (.2025). Six healthcare trends providers should plan for in 2025. https://www.chartis.com/insights/sixcare-trends-healthcare-provider-trends-plan-2025
10. Syracuse University. (.2024). General research on AI ethics.
11. ScienceDirect. (.2024). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/ai-ethics-2024/
12. IMAGINE SPOR (.2024). https://www.imagine-spornetwork.ca
13. Commonwealth Fund. (.2025). https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/change-2025-care-health-care-courage-2025