This year, healthcare executives cited issues such as regulatory compliance, data analytics, controlling costs and managing cybersecurity as key concerns for 2017. The research also found:

• Nearly 60 percent of respondents would prioritize cost transparency over quality transparency, indicating better cost management and patient education in the face of consumerism are important priorities.
• More than half of healthcare executives polled reported they expect their financial burdens tied to the Affordable Care Act will worsen in 2017, a noteworthy increase in concern from last year’s report.
• Most payers and providers applying data analytics are seeing slight to moderate impacts from using these techniques and processes.

“Our findings show 2017 will be a notable year for healthcare as organizations change how they deliver care, handle reimbursements, engage patients and navigate new policies,” said Ferris Taylor, board chair of HCEG. “Though payers and providers face uncertainties, the research suggests they’re collaborating better than ever. As has been the case in years past, we’re confident our insight will continue to help them more proactively prepare for new hurdles and accelerate innovation as a new administration takes office, care models evolve and reimbursements shift.”

“Our customers, partners and colleagues are at the forefront of healthcare’s transformation and need the latest research and forward-thinking insights to drive growth and enhance patient-centric, cost-effective care,” said David Gallegos, senior vice president, consulting services at Change Healthcare. “Based on this year’s research, we think the industry will benefit from a few macro trends this year, including consumer engagement, analytics and cost management. We look forward to leveraging this data to provide near- and long-term value for our customers and partners as they work to capitalize on these opportunities and drive healthier communities.”

Change Healthcare and HCEG will be presenting full findings from the research during a webinar on March 29, 2017. To register for the webinar, please visit http://discover.changehealthcare.com/2016_Industry_Pulse_Survey_Results.

About Change Healthcare
On March 2, 2017, Change Healthcare and McKesson announced the closing of their transaction to form a new healthcare technology company. The new company is called Change Healthcare.

Change Healthcare is inspiring a better healthcare system. Working alongside our customers and partners, we leverage our software and analytics, network solutions and technology-enabled services to help them improve efficiency, reduce costs, increase cash flow and more effectively manage complex workflows.  Together, we are accelerating the journey toward improved lives and healthier communities. Learn more at www.changehealthcare.com.

About The HealthCare Executive Group
The HealthCare Executive Group is a national network of select healthcare executives and thought leaders who navigate the tactical and strategic issues facing organizations today and provide a platform that promotes healthcare innovation and the development of life-long professional relationships. Originally the Managed Care Executive Group (MCEG), the HealthCare Executive Group (HCEG), was founded in 1988 by healthcare executives looking for a forum where the open exchange of ideas, opportunities for collaboration and transformational dialogue could freely ensue, especially with respect to the annually identified HCEG Top 10 Critical Issues. For more information, visit www.hceg.org or follow HCEG on Twitter at @HCExecGroup.