For me, big conferences are always a mixed bag. They’re a great time to learn, engage in dialogue with other industry leaders, and meet new partners. They can also expose trends in our industry that I’m not as fond of (to put it lightly). The glaring truth is that as an industry, we can’t negotiate affordable healthcare, but we can definitely afford monogrammed luggage tags and ProV1’s at our conferences. After attending HLTH last week, here are a few thoughts…
Everyone Wants Your Data
Almost every large company we spoke to at HLTH is thinking about how to consolidate your healthcare data to expand their business and improve their margins. While some of them are using it to make important medical interventions, others simply want it for the business value.
The takeaway: we’re all creating more healthcare data than ever, and eventually we’ll need a plan for how to protect and share that data.
You’re increasingly viewed as a “Consumer”
There was a noticeable increase in “direct to consumer” healthcare products at this conference. This ranged from telehealth and wellness apps, to genetics and machine learning diagnostics. However, despite the consumer messaging, most of these companies still see your Employer as their main sales channel.
The takeaway: A lot of companies are trying to figure out how to get you to buy healthcare directly, but recognize that you’re probably still tied to your employer for most of your healthcare decisions.
There’s more great technology out there to support your health than ever!
I also learned about a ton of great products and companies that are dedicated to achieving better healthcare outcomes. Many of these products include transparent pricing which should make it more accessible for all of us.
Final thoughts:
Businesses are continuing to adapt to the changing world of healthcare, and we as healthcare consumers need to be more aware than ever who has their hands in our healthcare and how.
