Back in a Big Way:
My Top Takeaways from HIMSS 2025

By Brad Hill, CEO of BettrAi

After a whirlwind week at HIMSS 2025 earlier this month, I’ve finally had a moment to catch my breath—and I can confidently say: it’s good to be back.

This year, I had the privilege of representing the BettrAi leadership team on the ground, reconnecting with old colleagues, meeting new innovators, and seeing firsthand how far the healthcare technology space has come—and where it’s headed next. 

The takeaway? HIMSS is not just back. It’s buzzing. Here are the biggest things I walked away with:

1) HIMSS Is Back—and It Feels Different (In the Best Way)

This year felt like the HIMSS of old—in all the right ways.

Pre-pandemic attendance levels are back, and so is the energy.

But what stood out even more than the crowd size was the quality of interaction. Booths were full of real conversations, not just badge scans. People weren’t there to collect swag—they were there to solve problems, explore partnerships, and ask smart questions.

There was a collective sense of: “Let’s build something better—together.”

2)  AI Is Everywhere (And I Mean Everywhere)

If HIMSS 2025 had a theme, it was this: every company is now an AI company. You couldn’t turn a corner without hearing about AI-powered scheduling, AI-enhanced workflows, AI-supported care coordination.

And while some of it was impressive… let’s be honest: not all AI is created equal. There’s still a ton of noise. And one thing became clear: the industry is still trying to articulate where AI actually fits in the care continuum.

The challenge—and opportunity—lies in being able to cut through the buzzwords and demonstrate real, strategic value.

3)  Providers Are Curious About AI—but Still Cautious

As I spoke with providers and leaders from value-based care organizations, the message was consistent: AI is interesting—but show us the use case. Most are not ready to turn patient care over to algorithms. And I get that. But they’re absolutely open to AI’s ability to: 

     – Automate admin-heavy processes 
     – Surface patient insights sooner 
     – Improve communication between care teams 

The appetite is there—but it’s cautious, not blind. The focus right now is less on revolution and more on relieving real pressure points. 

4)  No ROI? No Deal.

Across the board—from payers to providers—the message couldn’t have been clearer: if your solution doesn’t show a fast, measurable ROI, it’s not getting a second look. That’s not cynicism. It’s the reality of a healthcare system under immense pressure. Buyers want specifics. 

     – How quickly will this tool start delivering value?
     – Can it help us improve quality metrics? 
     – Will it reduce costs?
     – Can you guarantee outcomes? 

The era of “let’s pilot it and see” is over. Now it’s “prove it—or pass.”

5)  Small Companies Are Having Big Moments

One of the most inspiring things I saw this year? The rise of the small-but-mighty startups.

Early-stage companies were everywhere—and they weren’t just taking up space, they were taking up serious mindshare. Many had sharper messaging, more agile roadmaps, and a genuine openness to collaborate. And it wasn’t just the small guys looking to partner. Strategic partnership was on everyone’s mind.

Whether through co-innovation, tech integrations, or go-to-market alignment, HIMSS 2025 made one thing clear: The future of health tech will be built together. 

Final Thought: HIMSS Wasn’t Just a Conference—It Was a Reset 

After the past few years of disruption, adaptation, and cautious optimism, HIMSS 2025 felt like a collective deep breath—and a jolt of forward motion.

Yes, there’s still uncertainty. But what I saw in every booth, every conversation, and every handshake was something more powerful: momentum.

At BettrAi, we’re leaning into this moment. We know AI isn’t a magic fix. But when used the right way—with precision, purpose, and a deep respect for providers—it can be the accelerant healthcare needs. We’re not here to chase buzzwords. We’re here to help providers deliver smarter, more connected, more human care. And after HIMSS 2025, I’m more convinced than ever: the time is now. 

Let’s build it. Together. 

—Brad Hill –  CEO, BettrAi