Healthcare IT Trends: Look Into the CHIME CIO Survey Findings

Dating back to 2020, we have conducted a survey of healthcare executives, all CHIME members to gather insights on the evolving landscape of healthcare IT.

This analysis equips healthcare executives with the knowledge needed to drive efficiency and enhance patient care through strategic IT initiatives.

Year 2025

For top technology priorities, operational vs. capitol expense allocation, and technical debt, read part 1.

Part 1: Unveiled: You'll Need to Know These Innovative Strategies Healthcare CIOs are Using

For IT budget allocation, staffing challenges, cost savings strategies, and top advisory services, read part 2.

Part 2: CIOs Reveal Insider Initiatives: Transforming Budget Woes into New Victories

For the full breakdown and analysis of each survey question by small and large hospitals, read part 3. Prefer a visual with detailed charts? Explore our comprehensive slide decks.

Part 3: Comparing Technology Initiatives: How Small and Large Hospitals Strategize Slide Deck: ≤ 250 beds Slide Deck: 250+ beds

Key Findings and Key Differences

AI Emerges as a Key Priority in 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become a significant strategic focus, ranking as the third most critical initiative for healthcare CIOs, ahead of infrastructure modernization.

Implications: This shift indicates that healthcare organizations are increasingly recognizing the transformative potential of AI. As AI gains traction, it is expected to enhance operational efficiency, improve patient care, and address emerging challenges in the healthcare industry. Organizations must prioritize closing the knowledge gap around AI and exploring its capabilities to fully leverage its benefits.

Cybersecurity Reigns as Top Priority Year After Year

Cybersecurity continues to be the top IT initiative for healthcare CIOs, reflecting ongoing concerns about cyberattacks and the need for security.

Implications: The focus on cybersecurity highlights the importance of protecting sensitive patient data and maintaining the integrity of healthcare systems. Healthcare organizations must invest in cybersecurity strategies to mitigate risks and ensure preparedness against potential threats.

Facing Tight IT Budgets Leads to Innovative Ways to Save

With healthcare CIOs grappling with tight IT budgets, many are dedicating less than 5% of their net patient revenue to IT. This financial constraint is driving CIOs to find resourceful solutions such as forming partnerships, hiring contractors for short-term projects, and partially outsourcing IT functions.

Implications: These strategies help manage limited resources effectively, ensuring that critical IT initiatives can still be pursued despite budget limitations. The rise of AI as a top priority for cost savings highlights the potential of advanced technologies to streamline operations and reduce costs.

see the summary infographic

*The 2025 online survey and the data reported is based on responses from 46 healthcare executives, all CHIME members, sponsored by CereCore.