In this new blog from Ken Burton, National Leader, Enterprise Imaging and Data (U.S. and Canada) at BridgeHead Software, he consolidates the insights and experience from the BridgeHead team that attended the recent 2025 HIMSS Global Health Conference and Exhibition in Las Vegas by way of a review of the key themes and takeaways from the event.
HIMSS 2025 Global Health Conference & Exhibition in review
The HIMSS 2025 Global Health Conference & Exhibition once again provided a deep dive into the latest innovations and challenges in healthcare technology. This year’s discussions were dominated by AI implementation, interoperability, patient engagement, cybersecurity, health equity, emerging technologies, financial sustainability, and workforce resilience. Below is a short summary of our collective observations from the show on each of these topics.
1. AI & machine learning: from hype to practical implementation
Artificial Intelligence remained front and center at HIMSS, with a noticeable shift from buzz to tangible use cases. Clinical decision support tools, predictive analytics, and operational streamlining showcased the power of AI in real-world scenarios. Generative AI for clinical conversations gained momentum, while the growing concept of “platformification” (not our favourite term – but you get the gist!) – embedding AI models from vendors like Ferrum, Aidoc, and Bayer/Blackford into broader ecosystems – underscored the need for scalable, data-ready infrastructures.
2. Interoperability & data exchange: enabling seamless healthcare connectivity
The Interoperability and Smart Pavilion spotlighted FHIR-driven integrations and real-world data use, illustrating the necessity of connected ecosystems. Case studies, such as the Cancer Care Pathway (where BridgeHead demonstrated live integration of our HealthStore® solution with EPIC, eHealth Exchange and others), revealed how standardized, sharable data can significantly improve care coordination and outcomes across the continuum.
3. Digital patient engagement & virtual care: the shift to hybrid models
Personalized care delivery models continue to evolve, with hybrid care and digital engagement platforms taking the lead. HIMSS 25 emphasized solutions for mental health, remote monitoring, and patient portals – all aiming to enhance access, personalization, and proactive care.
4. Cybersecurity & privacy: a ‘Zero Trust’ approach
As healthcare data breaches escalate, cybersecurity strategies were a dominant theme. Organizations are moving toward ‘Zero Trust’ frameworks, prioritizing end-to-end encryption, role-based access, and compliance with evolving privacy regulations to safeguard sensitive patient information.
5. Health equity & digital inclusion: bridging the digital divide
Addressing disparities in healthcare access and outcomes remained a major focus. Thought leaders and technology providers explored culturally competent care models, inclusive digital tools, and community-based initiatives to drive better engagement and outcomes for all populations.
6. Innovation & emerging Technologies: the future of proactive healthcare
Emerging technologies – from blockchain to smart hospitals and predictive health systems – are accelerating a shift from reactive to proactive care. These innovations hinge on real-time, accurate data to deliver actionable insights and enhance patient experience.
7. Financial sustainability & value-based care: aligning transformation with fiscal health
As healthcare pivots toward value-based models, financial sustainability is top of mind. Organizations are re-evaluating legacy systems and digital investments to ensure they align with outcomes-based reimbursement models while maintaining operational efficiency.
8. Workforce development & resilience: the future of healthcare staffing
With staffing shortages and burnout on the rise, HIMSS 25 tackled strategies for workforce optimization, including automation, improved data accessibility, and enhanced employee wellness programs.
Final thoughts: enabling the future with smarter data management
What resonated most at HIMSS 25 was a unifying message: the future of healthcare hinges on smart, accessible, and secure data. Whether through AI implementation, better patient engagement, stronger interoperability, or more resilient operations, data is the common denominator.
As healthcare organizations navigate these advancements, BridgeHead’s Clinical Data Repository, HealthStore®, stands out as a crucial solution in addressing many of these themes while providing the foundations for a long-term, future-proof data management strategy.
By consolidating clinical and administrative data into a single, interoperable repository, HealthStore empowers healthcare organizations to modernize their infrastructure, support AI-driven innovations, streamline compliance, and reduce reliance on outdated systems. It provides the data readiness needed to meet tomorrow’s challenges – whether that’s delivering value-based care, protecting patient privacy, or supporting a stretched workforce.
As the industry continues to evolve, a forward-thinking data strategy is no longer optional – it’s mission-critical. HealthStore enables that strategy, helping organizations turn healthcare data into a catalyst for transformation.
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Ken Burton has over 30 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Over the past 17 years, he has held a number of roles in services, sales and business development at top health tech companies, including GE, Fuji, and Aidoc. In addition, Ken has held leadership positions at prominent healthcare providers in the Pacific Northwest, such as UW Medicine, Providence, and Virginia Mason.
At BridgeHead, Ken is helping healthcare organizations across the U.S. and Canada to develop strategies to navigate the challenges of managing and leveraging their clinical data.
Ken lives in the Seattle area with his wife. He is the proud father of four adult children and now two granddaughters. Outside of work, Ken is an avid boater, skier and golfer.
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