HIMSS 26, AI Acceptability, and Data Modernization
Just wrapped up an energizing week at the HIMSS26 Global Health Conference in Las Vegas!
It was an absolute honor to moderate the panel session, "Clinical Performance Excellence: Data Modernization as a Mission Critical Strategy," alongside fantastic industry leaders Danny Sama and Gordon Barr. We had a packed room of executives and had a bright conversation regarding the realities of AI and shifting perspectives for build/buy, infrastructure, workflows, and expected future impact.
The Innovation Paradox: We explored the musical chairs of emerging leadership roles and the 80/20 resource allocation challenge—maintaining legacy systems while actively cultivating high-value AI initiatives
Real-Time Data Modernization: We discussed moving beyond retrospective databases and the necessity of event-driven architectures (like enterprise FHIR stores) to embed AI seamlessly into real-time clinical workflows
The AI Acceptability Tipping Point: We posed a provocative question to the room: Are we approaching a future state where not utilizing rigorous AI decision support tools will be seen as negligent?
Overall, the focus was AI, AI, and AI; for good reason, too. We've approached a steep section of the exponential curve of innovation in AI which has made the rapidity of change downright dizzying!
As far as HIMSS crowds were concerned, this was some of the most energetic and busy I’ve ever seen attending the conference. 2026 is quickly accelerating, and the masses sensed it.
It was excellent connecting with old friends sharing their perspectives on the year as well as new podcast guests to discuss advances in imaging, AI, oncology, cloud, infrastructure, provider needs in the rise of AI, and new AI strategies beginning to emerge.
Serendipitously, Sabra Tourigny, MBA-HA , Managing Director at Oracle Health, met with me in the “Park” section of the The Venetian Resort Las Vegas and we share old stories, future visions, and immediately hit it off. For me, reminding me the value of in-person business in the post-Covid age.
Healthcare is moving incredibly fast, and the conversations this week proved that our technology infrastructure must evolve just as quickly to support excellence across every vertical of healthcare.
The momentum continues…
Shez Partovi Sabra Tourigny, MBA-HA Gordon Barr Danny Sama Chad Kellogg Marco Janssen Anna Hogrebe Tara Wood Jessica Hagen Eyal Zimlichman, MD Peter Shen Daniel Felke Robin Goldsmith Niki Panich MD, FCFP Laura Cooley, PhD Kile Garrett Catalant JoAnn Klinedinst, MEd CPHIMS PMP CPTD CPDHTS LFHIMSS FACHE HIMSS