Healthcare leaders continue to grapple with an expanding list of threats to the industry’s stability, from workforce shortages and reimbursement pressures to the growing role of artificial intelligence and the erosion of patient trust. Leaders from health systems across the US share with Becker's Hospital Review the trend they believe poses the greatest risk to healthcare today.
Paul Hiltz, President and CEO of Naples Comprehensive Health said: "The most dangerous trend I see is losing our experienced caregivers to burnout."
Joe Avelino, CEO of College Medical, said: " A dangerous trend I see is when leaders become too dependent on artificial intelligence. AI will undoubtedly become an increasingly important tool to help us identify patients at risk, improve access to care, streamline administrative burdens, and support better clinical decision-making. However, AI cannot replace the healing power of a compassionate physician, a reassuring nurse, a dedicated social worker, or a sitter who simply sits quietly with someone during their darkest moment. Think about this, our patients may not always remember their diagnosis or the medication we prescribed, but they will remember how we made them feel and whether they were treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. As we embrace innovation, let us ensure that AI enhances the human connection rather than replaces it."
And Erik Mikaitis, CEO of Cook County Health (Chicago) thinks one of the most dangerous trends in healthcare today is growing disengagement from care, coupled with increasing mistrust in the medical community. Patients are being asked to navigate an increasingly complex system, from insurance coverage and referrals to prior authorizations and changing eligibility rules. Recent federal policy changes are making that even more difficult for individuals who rely on coverage through insurance marketplaces or Medicaid.
Source: Becker's Hospital Review, 27 August 2026
Recommended Comments
Create an account or sign in to comment