HFMA report: Healthcare C-suite executives feel underprepared for the future, especially when it comes to AI deployment

CHICAGO, Nov. 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In the current environment of unsustainable costs and rapid technological advancement, top U.S. health system leaders say old ways of doing business in healthcare are no longer viable, according to “The C-suite of the Future,” the latest report from the award-winning editorial team at the Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA).

Even so, an HFMA survey of C-level executives found them feeling underprepared for current and coming challenges ranging from AI deployment to cost containment. Other key insights from the report include:

• New skill sets: Leaders identified innovation/technology, payer relations and digital technology as the top three news skills the C-suite will need for the future.
• New C-suite roles: Survey respondents chose Chief AI Innovation Officer as the most important new role for the C-suite of the future.
• Growing roles: While many C-suites have a Chief Information/Technology Officer, this role will grow in importance, according to the survey.
  

In a fast-paced environment, healthcare leaders see the need for strategic and visionary leadership. They also need adaptability and emotional intelligence to help their teams adjust to the speed of change.

“My takeaway is there is strong self-awareness among C-suite leaders of where there is weakness, and that’s driving much closer collaboration and interesting partnerships at the executive level,” said Brad Dennison, HFMA vice president of content. “These leaders are learning they have to work together in ways that weren’t necessary before.”

Top healthcare executives describe the emerging C-suite as interconnected, innovative, data-driven and AI savvy.

“The HFMA survey shows healthcare’s top leaders are mapping a strong future, working together to create a system that focuses on personalized care,” Dennison said. “They know there’s no time to lose.”

Read the full report here. “C-suite of the Future” was made possible with support from healthcare services firm Healthrise.

About HFMA   
The Healthcare Financial Management Association (HFMA) equips its more than 140,000 members to navigate a complex healthcare landscape. Finance professionals in the full range of work settings, including hospitals, health systems, physician practices and health plans, trust HFMA to provide the guidance and tools to help them lead their organizations, and the industry, forward. HFMA is a not-for-profit, nonpartisan organization that advances healthcare by collaborating with other key stakeholders to address industry challenges and providing guidance, education, practical tools and solutions, and thought leadership. We lead the financial management of healthcare.

Press inquiries should be directed to:  
Jean Hodges 
(708) 514-5799 
jhodges@hfma.org 

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