The healthcare industry is poised for a transformative year in 2025, as leaders confront mounting challenges in cybersecurity, workforce safety, and data management. Experts from CenTrak predict increased investments in cybersecurity to combat escalating ransomware attacks and new legislative efforts aimed at safeguarding healthcare workers. Additionally, the growing integration of AI and advanced digital solutions will drive demand for robust data security measures and skilled analytics professionals. As hospitals strive to modernize, these trends will reshape the priorities and strategies of healthcare organizations worldwide.
Kevin Paroda, Director of Global Hardware, Product Management at CenTrak:
Cybersecurity
- Increased Investment in Cybersecurity: After notable incidents like ransomware attacks on hospitals (e.g., Ascension), healthcare organizations are expected to heavily invest in cybersecurity in 2025. This includes updating their cybersecurity infrastructure to avoid such attacks in the future.
- Cybersecurity Focus in RFPs: Hospitals will likely require that vendors meet stringent cybersecurity standards when submitting RFPs for healthcare technology solutions, including RTLS systems. This will become a key consideration in the procurement process.
Caryn Hewitt, Senior Director, Consulting Services and David Kame, MBA, MHA, Consultant, Director of Client Success at CenTrak:
Healthcare Workforce & Safety
- Workforce Legislation and Violence Prevention: There is growing attention on legislation to prevent violence against healthcare workers, particularly nurses. As healthcare environments become more technologically advanced, addressing safety concerns for the workforce will remain a high priority.
Cybersecurity
- Rising Data Security Concerns: Cybersecurity will remain a critical issue in healthcare. As healthcare organizations adopt more AI and digital solutions, they will face increased customer demand for data security in 2025, particularly concerning how data is stored, accessed, and protected. Healthcare systems will need to be proactive in securing sensitive patient information to maintain trust and comply with evolving regulations.
- Opportunities in Data Science: There will be an increasing demand for data scientists and analytics professionals to ensure that both data security and actionable insights can be gleaned from the massive amounts of patient data being collected. As data analytics becomes more embedded in healthcare operations, the need for skilled personnel will grow rapidly.
