U.S. health systems turn to AI for growth, efficiency in 2026
ILLINOIS, UNITED STATES — As United States health systems face persistent workforce shortages, rising operational costs, and tighter margins, hospital leaders are turning to artificial intelligence (AI) as a strategic tool for growth and efficiency in 2026.
According to a report from Becker’s Health IT, Chief information officers (CIOs) are shifting away from experimental AI pilots, emphasizing reliable, scalable technologies that can deliver enterprise-wide value.
AI in healthcare: From pilots to core infrastructure
For many hospitals and health systems, AI is no longer a novelty.
“We’re focused on using artificial intelligence as a catalyst for enhancing quality and safety and transforming care delivery — making it smarter, more predictive, and patient-focused,” said Dr. Rohit Chandra, chief digital officer at Cleveland Clinic.
The initial step requires completion of administrative work tasks. The use of AI-based scribes with medical coding solutions enables doctors to work less while their professional output increases and staff members can dedicate themselves to patient treatment.
As health systems anticipate potential Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidy and Medicaid cuts, operational efficiency has become essential.
“Ultimately, our vision is a future where operational enhancements fuel growth, and growth accelerates our ability to deliver care that is not only efficient but profoundly centered on each patient’s journey,” Dr. Chandra added.
At the University of Maryland Medical System, CIO Ryan Vervack emphasized enterprise-wide reliability.
“I hope to grow by leveraging AI and other technologies to automate routine work, augmenting (rather than replacing) staff, and focusing on scalable design,” Vervack said.
“Reducing unplanned work and standardizing platforms allows us to focus on intentional, governed innovation,” Vervack added.
Hospitals adopt AI selectively to optimize workflows, cut waste
Financial and operational pressures are prompting hospitals to adopt AI selectively. At Adventist HealthCare in Maryland, Dr. Neil Roy said the focus is on efficiency, not volume.
“Margin in this model comes from efficiency and value,” he said. “This is really about disciplined growth, not growth for growth’s sake, so we can stay stable and still move forward.”
CIOs are also rationalizing technology portfolios to manage complexity and maximize impact.
“Our focus is on rationalizing our applications and prioritizing core platforms that can deliver multiple capabilities rather than continuing to add complexity,” said Chad Konchak of Endeavor Health in Illinois.
Healthcare leaders are taking cues from other industries, such as airlines, to optimize workflows.
“Leveraging AI or advanced routine technology can optimize the daily workflows and map the most efficient paths, prioritize tasks and reduce delays,” said Brandi Fields, vice president of clinical services at UK King’s Daughters in Kentucky.
With AI integrated into value-based care models, hospitals are improving care coordination, reducing costs, and enhancing patient experiences.
“The use of AI and digital health tools…can also enhance the patient experience, guide patients to the right care, and streamline operations,” said Dr. Nolan Chang of The Permanente Federation.
As U.S. health systems increasingly view AI as essential infrastructure, the technology is poised to support both operational stability and long-term growth across hospitals, clinics, and care networks.
