Michael Byrnes
By Michael Byrnes on May 29, 2024

Key Healthcare Trends Across Major H1 2024 Events Signal What to Expect in H2

With the first half of 2024 nearly behind us, we’re reflecting on the agenda-driving topics at events like JP Morgan, ViVE, and SXSW that we expect will continue to inform dialog during the busy fall event season. Across the board, the intersection of health and technological innovation continues to ignite excitement and uncover new opportunities for leadership - with AI accounting for the lion’s share of conversation. 

Without question, a dynamic shift in how healthcare is being reimagined thanks to technological advancements and a focus on patient-centric care is afoot. Here’s a consolidated overview of the key trends from JP Morgan, ViVE and SXSW which will likely influence discussions at upcoming conferences like HLTH in Las Vegas.

The Impact of Emerging Technologies

Across all conferences, the impact of AI, robotics, and digital health platforms was evident. These technologies are not only improving healthcare delivery but are also creating efficiencies in drug development and chronic disease management. AI's role in drug discovery was highlighted at each conference, with discussions on its potential to transform drug development by making the process faster, although not necessarily cheaper, due to the high costs associated with software and computational power.​ Dr. Jesse Ehrenfeld, president of the AMA, moderated a panel at SXSW titled "AI, Health Care, and the Strange Future of Medicine," where the discussion included how AI is being integrated into drug discovery. 

Expansion in Digital Health and Telemedicine

As noted during the JP Morgan conference, despite recent market challenges, there's a significant focus on expanding digital health services and telemedicine. This reflects an ongoing trend facilitated by the global pandemic that took root as a permanent transformation in healthcare delivery. Companies like Amazon are pushing forward with healthcare initiatives like its Health Condition Programs, developed in partnership with Omada Health, exemplifying the trend toward integrating digital health solutions with traditional care delivery​. At ViVE, Verizon Business outlined a collaboration with UC Davis to improve healthcare access for high-risk populations, demonstrating the role of telecom in telehealth solutions.​

Health Equity and Access

Highlighted at VIVE and also a part of the discourse at JP Morgan, was the emphasis on health equity. Innovative digital solutions and AI are being used to navigate the complex landscape of Medicare and to ensure broader access to healthcare services, regardless of socioeconomic status​. Companies like Uber Health are collaborating with Socially Determined to provide nonemergency medical transportation and essential services to at-risk patients, while TruBridge is focused on alleviating access issues in rural areas through improved medical coding and billing support​.

Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Beyond

Technology’s integration into healthcare is well-captured by the ongoing emergence of continuous glucose monitoring systems, as discussed at JP Morgan and SXSW where Dexcom’s Stelo sensor was a prominent topic. The Stelo sensor, set for a summer 2024 launch, is designed for people with type 2 diabetes who do not use insulin, significantly expanding CGM access to a broader population​. These devices are also becoming more sophisticated and accessible, expanding their potential use from people with diabetes to a broader population interested in better managing their health through technology​.

Value-Based Care and Outcome Optimizations

Another trend from JP Morgan is the continued shift towards value-based care, where the emphasis is on achieving the best possible health outcomes in the most cost-effective way. When paired with the increasing use of digital tools,  patient outcomes and operational efficiencies within healthcare systems​ can improve. At ViVE, Humana announced its use of Veda’s automation technology for maintaining accurate provider directories to improve operational efficiency and patient care quality.​

Looking Forward to HLTH in Las Vegas

These trends suggest a rich agenda for the HLTH conference, where discussions will will delve into how these technologies and approaches can be further integrated into healthcare systems globally. Topics such as mental and behavioral health, health equity, and the use of AI in healthcare are expected to be front and center, continuing the conversation from these earlier events and pushing the envelope on innovation in healthcare.

While it might seem far off, communications and marketing teams can and should begin sharpening their messaging around these topics. This is the year when AI not only continues its rapid progression throughout the healthcare ecosystem but also when storytelling around this topic - once largely nebulous and unwieldy - is evolving toward a more concrete, evidence-based approach. We’re working with clients day-in, day-out to shape content and messaging that demystifies AI and demonstrates its impact on patients, providers and payors. 

Will you be in Vegas for HLTH? Let's connect!

Published by Michael Byrnes May 29, 2024
Michael Byrnes