HealthTech Trends to Consider in 2026

Specialty practices can’t afford to fall behind in 2026. Financial pressures are mounting, reimbursement policies are shifting and patient expectations continue to rise. When margins tighten and operational challenges multiply, staying informed is essential for profitability and positive patient reviews.

As we inch closer to the new year, take a look at which healthcare trends might demand immediate action. From AI automation that reduces staffing strain to payment strategies that protect revenue without alienating patients, the right moves today determine which practices thrive tomorrow.

Below, we’ll explore a few of the top trends that specialty healthcare leaders should pay close attention to in 2026. These trends are backed by data from practices already adapting, already seeing results, and already pulling ahead of competitors stuck in outdated workflows. 

Here’s what specialty healthcare leaders need to know, and do, to navigate 2026 successfully.

1. The Surcharging Debate Continues

Credit card processing fees represent a growing expense for high-volume practices, leading many healthcare executives to explore or implement surcharging strategies. Today, 25% of healthcare transactions now include a surcharge, doubling year-over-year.

However, surcharging carries significant complexity. MGMA notes that, while only a few states prohibit the practice outright, many impose restrictions or require specific disclosures based on attorney general guidance or bar association requirements. National regulations explicitly prohibit surcharging for Medicare and Medicaid covered services, and credit card brands impose their own rules, including caps on fees, prohibitions on surcharging debit or HSA/FSA cards, and mandatory pre-transaction disclosures.

The legal labyrinth is only part of the concern. Patient perception matters tremendously, and surcharging can potentially generate pushback from patients.

Forward-thinking practices are weighing their options and also considering alternative approaches to strengthen payment capture. See the top six strategies they’re using and implement them today!

2. AI Delivers Efficiency at Scale

Artificial intelligence has transitioned from a buzzword to an operational advantage. 

Among the most significant 2026 healthcare technology trends, 62% of healthcare leaders are actively considering AI automation adoption within the next year, with clear priorities emerging around billing, revenue cycle and patient scheduling.

The potential impact of AI in healthcare is substantial:

• Practices implementing AI-driven scheduling tools have saved between 500 and 1,500 hours annually by migrating phone traffic to intelligent booking platforms that improve both accuracy and efficiency
• Call centers using AI-powered logic have reduced agent training time by 86%, enabling faster onboarding and more consistent patient experiences
• Practices deploying AI for patient education around premium services have achieved a  35% increase in conversion rates through hyper-personalized video content and targeted communication campaigns

From diagnostics to booking and personalized patient education, AI tools are reshaping how patients interact with their providers across the entire care journey. 

However, implementation requires careful vetting. Not all AI solutions deliver equivalent value, and practices must spot red flags early to avoid setbacks. The most successful adopters carefully evaluate tools against specific operational needs, prioritize patient-centric design, and ensure seamless integration with existing workflows and systems. Dive deeper!

3. Patient Expectations are Impacting Digital Adoption

Patient expectations continue to diverge around digital tools. Nearly 80% percent of patients express a desire to schedule care anytime, anywhere, yet 55% of providers report patients remain unsure how to navigate self-scheduling tools. Additionally, 37% of providers identify getting patients to adopt digital tools as a top operational challenge.

This adoption gap carries real consequences. Patient engagement tools promise efficiency gains, reduced staff workloads and improved satisfaction, but only when patients actually use them. When adoption stalls, practices carry implementation costs without realizing intended benefits.

It’s imperative to know how to separate the good from the great when it comes to patient engagement solutions. Solutions that unintentionally make processes harder rather than easier for patients inevitably underperform. Practices achieving high adoption rates share common characteristics. See what these characteristics are and how to spot any red flags in a patient check-in or scheduling tool you’re considering.

When is it Time to Switch Patient Engagement Providers?

Many practices hesitate to switch patient engagement solutions, even when current tools underperform. 

The switching costs, staff retraining, workflow disruption and implementation time feel daunting. However, staying with inadequate technology often costs far more in lost revenue, staff frustration and patient dissatisfaction.

Consider switching if your current solution exhibits these warning signs:

• Patient adoption rates remain low
• Staff regularly work around the system rather than through it
• You’re paying for features that don’t integrate properly with your existing workflows

Additionally, if your provider can’t demonstrate measurable ROI with specific metrics tied to your practice’s performance, you’re likely leaving money on the table.

The most successful transitions happen when practices treat vendor selection as a strategic partnership rather than a simple software purchase. Look for providers offering robust implementation support, ongoing optimization consulting, and transparent performance analytics. 

Position Your Practice for Success Next Year!

The trends shaping 2026 will test every facet of specialty practice operations. Yet each challenge contains seeds of competitive advantage for practices willing to respond strategically.

Interested in learning about other trends forecasted to be important for specialty healthcare leaders? Download the guide to ensure your practice is sufficiently prepared for what’s to come in 2026!