Health Systems Advance AI, Partnerships, and Innovation in 2026
New collaborations, technology deployments, and leadership changes mark a period of rapid transformation
Healthcare organizations across the United States are reporting significant developments in technology, partnerships, and leadership as they move into 2026. Mercy and Microsoft have announced a partnership focused on expanding “invisible care” models, while UnityPoint Health became the first organization to join Mayo Clinic’s new AI network. Oracle Health received approval to participate in TEFCA, the federal framework for health data exchange, and leaders across the industry noted that AI applications are already improving reimbursement processes and capacity management, with further impact anticipated.
Several health systems are adopting new technology platforms. Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia went live with Epic’s generative AI text tool, Northwell Health launched an AI-powered primary care platform, Columbia University introduced 3D modeling to guide heart surgeries, and Duke Health began delivering automated external defibrillators by drone. Franciscan Health reported $45 million in savings following an electronic health record migration, while a Hawaii health system saved $20 million by improving patient flow. Gallup released findings on the best and worst U.S. states for healthcare cost, quality, and access, and a jury awarded $634 million in a health technology lawsuit involving an Apple competitor.
Leadership and policy changes are also shaping the landscape. Twenty health systems announced new chief information officers, and a Kaiser Permanente leader stated that AI regulations should not favor larger organizations. Strategic leaders are responding to OBBBA developments with both concern and innovation, while hospitals continue to face new cyberattacks linked to legacy technology. Becker’s Health IT highlighted strategies from 100 health system leaders on scaling generative AI and emphasized themes of disruption, clinician-centered innovation, and the integration of intelligence at the point of care.
Together, these developments reflect a period of rapid transformation in healthcare, with organizations pursuing new models of care, adopting advanced technologies, and navigating evolving regulatory and operational challenges.
