HIMSS 2025 in Las Vegas was nothing short of electric, and being there as a Chief Architect has given me a renewed sense of purpose in what we do and the speed of change ahead. From the busy show floor to the thought-provoking keynotes, the conference was a convergence of healthcare professionals, tech innovators, and big ideas. Here’s my take on the trends that defined this year’s event and how symplr is helping lead the way.
The integration of AI in healthcare
If there’s one topic on nearly everyone’s minds, it is artificial intelligence (AI). We’re seeing AI drive everything from clinical decision-making to operational efficiencies with more integration of generative AI into workflows as provider organizations and companies work together to test and learn. One session that stuck with me was on how AI-powered workflow solutions helped reduce nurse turnover rates by offering smarter, automated task management. That’s the kind of impact we expect with the symplr Operations Platform.
We introduced attendees to symplrAI Evidence Analysis, a newly launched solution built in collaboration with Amazon Web Services (AWS). It uses the latest AI technology to speed up clinical research, support health plans in making more informed decisions, and reduce wasted resources. For example, time spent reviewing clinical research can be cut from days to a matter of minutes by distilling hundreds of pages on different studies into a summary of relevant information, saving healthcare professionals up to 75% of time and helping them be more productive. The feedback was incredible, with many health leaders inspired by how this automation could be harnessed to simplify their day-to-day challenges.
Interoperability as the backbone of progress
Another huge theme this year was interoperability. The message was clear: connected systems lead to better outcomes for both patients and providers. Speakers at HIMSS emphasized that data needs to move seamlessly and securely across multiple platforms to make healthcare truly work for everyone.
This focus on interoperability aligns closely with our approach at symplr. Through our platform, we’re not just offering tools—we’re connecting the dots. Whether it’s streamlining workflows or enabling smoother transitions of care, we’re helping organizations tear down silos and leverage processes that just work. That’s connecting within our own solutions and to customers’ EHRs, to their ERP systems, so they can leverage and help their own downstream workflows. Hearing firsthand during a focus group how our platform is giving healthcare teams their time back was deeply gratifying.
Security first
Amid the optimism about advanced technology, there was also a sobering reminder of the evolving cybersecurity risks in healthcare. With data breaches rising and AI advancements introducing new threats like deep fakes and synthetic IDs, security has to be an integral part of every healthcare system’s strategy.
Our team is committed to a security-first approach, integrating tools to not only streamline operations but to also protect sensitive patient and organizational data. At HIMSS, we emphasized how automation, combined with robust security measures, can help healthcare organizations stay ahead of threats and keep their data safe. We have partnered very closely with AWS to follow a well-architected framework and security measures from build through execution. That infrastructure, along with tight collaboration with our CISO and certifications from HITRUST and SOC, is what digital health leaders at HIMSS expect so they can sleep at night.
Sitting down with Healthcare IT News
One of the highlights of my HIMSS experience was sitting down with Kate Milliken of HIMSS TV and Healthcare IT News to discuss overcoming systems overload and real pain points healthcare teams face every day.
During our conversation, I explained how our operations platform unifies technologies to streamline workflows and eliminate complexity—effectively reducing the “swivel chair” effect. This common issue forces healthcare workers to juggle multiple disconnected systems and logins just to access the information they need. By addressing administrative burdens head on with the help of AI-powered capabilities, we’re reducing costs and enabling teams to increase efficiency and focus on patient care. It was a great opportunity to talk about the transformational potential of technology for the future of healthcare.
Collaboration & community
No HIMSS recap would be complete without mentioning the sense of community and collaboration that made this event special. Whether we were catching up with friends at AWS, KLAS, or CHIME, connecting with customers and remote teammates in person, or sharing a laugh during happy hour or over dinner, this year’s conference reminded us why we do what we do. Our shared purpose—to make healthcare simpler and better for everyone—is what brought us all together, and it’s what keeps us moving forward.
Final thoughts
HIMSS 2025 wasn’t just about the technologies and breakthroughs that are shaping the future. It was about reaffirming our collective commitment to solving healthcare’s toughest challenges. I left Las Vegas feeling inspired and more driven than ever. The future of healthcare technology is bright, but it’s also demanding. It will require collaboration, innovation, and a relentless focus on improving the patient and provider experience. We’re ready to meet that challenge head-on—with your help. See you at HIMSS 2026!
