What's Happening?
Healthcare organizations are facing significant uncertainty in 2025 due to evolving reimbursement models and shifting federal policies. Despite these challenges, a survey conducted by KLAS Research among 105 Chief Information Officers (CIOs) reveals that
most plan to maintain or increase spending on Health Information Technology (HIT) professional services. The survey highlights that technology is crucial for enabling patient care and driving efficiency, allowing organizations to achieve more with limited resources. CIOs are leveraging professional services firms for strategic consulting, implementation assistance, staff augmentation, and managed services to sustain performance and execute strategic initiatives amid workforce shortages and competition for skilled talent.
Why It's Important?
The focus on HIT professional services is critical as healthcare organizations navigate financial pressures and policy changes. Investments in Electronic Health Records (EHR), cybersecurity, and AI are prioritized to enhance operational and financial efficiency. Cybersecurity remains a major spending priority, although urgency has slightly decreased since the 2024 Change Healthcare incident. The rise of AI and automation services is driven by the proliferation of generative AI solutions, with CIOs seeking advisory and governance support to ensure tangible ROI. The introduction of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act in May 2025 has heightened financial uncertainty, yet over 80% of CIOs expect their budgets to hold steady or grow, underscoring the essential nature of external expertise.
What's Next?
Healthcare CIOs are expected to continue prioritizing investments in HIT professional services to address industry challenges. The focus will likely remain on EHR optimizations, cybersecurity enhancements, and AI-driven solutions. As federal policies evolve, organizations may need to adapt their strategies to maintain efficiency and patient care quality. The demand for specialized HIT expertise will persist, with firms like Impact Advisors, Huron, Nordic, and Chartis frequently mentioned by CIOs for their strong reputation and relationships. Successful partnerships will depend on factors beyond cost, including communication, transparency, stakeholder engagement, and measurable ROI.
Beyond the Headlines
The emphasis on HIT professional services reflects broader trends in healthcare, where technology is increasingly seen as a solution to systemic challenges. The strategic use of AI and automation could lead to long-term shifts in how healthcare is delivered, potentially improving patient outcomes and operational efficiency. Ethical considerations around AI governance and data security will be crucial as organizations integrate these technologies. The evolving federal policy landscape may also influence future investment decisions, requiring healthcare leaders to remain agile and responsive to changes.
