The aging baby boomer population and increased chronic disease burden are top of mind for providers and payers, and a significant driver of the $4.5T in U.S. health expenditures. With the transition to value-based care, healthcare organizations are looking for new ways to improve access, deliver quality care, and drive patient engagement.
Patient engagement is critical for satisfaction, outcomes, and quality performance.
Although more than 84% of healthcare consumers say it’s important for healthcare organizations to partner with—and engage with them—in making health decisions, a majority of patients lack engagement. In fact, more than half of Americans report a family history of chronic disease, yet 60% admit they avoid important health screenings, one survey found.
The Top 4 Patient Engagement Trends to Watch in 2025
In 2025, patient engagement will continue to be an area of focus for healthcare organizations and technology will play a vital role. Here, we explore 5 patient engagement trends we expect to see this year.
- Generative AI
When ChatGPT launched just a few years ago, everyone was talking about artificial intelligence (AI) yet the technology is nothing new. Research dates back to the 1960s and healthcare has been using AI for years to detect disease, educate patients, and interpret MRIs, among other use cases.
What is new, however, is the advent of Generative AI, or GenAI—algorithms that can be used to create new content.
Many hospitals and health systems, payers, and other healthcare entities are using GenAI in various ways, with patient engagement leading the way. In fact, a report by McKinsey found that 62% of healthcare leaders say GenAI will hold the highest potential value in improving patient engagement.
For example, GenAI is capable of analyzing patient data to predict health outcomes, identifying potential health risks, and developing personalized treatment plans. The technology can engage patients in their care by providing interactive learning experiences that help them understand their conditions, and complex medical concepts such as how a prescription drug works in the body.
51% of people have used GenAI to help diagnose symptoms.
Some companies are also developing GenAI solutions that analyze patient engagement data, identify those who are at risk for no-show appointments and automate outreach to close gaps in care. The technology is also being used to handle inbound and outbound patient communications via calls and texts, schedule appointments, manage referrals, and conduct patient outreach.
- Remote Patient Monitoring and Wearables
The shift to health-at-home continues at a rapid pace. This year, up to $265 billion worth of services for Medicare fee-for-service and Medicare Advantage beneficiaries could shift from traditional facilities to the home, according to McKinsey.This model allows patients to access the care they need where they feel most comfortable—in their own homes. Health at home not only improves access and outcomes but also reduces hospital readmissions, lowers costs, and fosters a more positive, engaging patient experience. By empowering individuals to age in place, these models are helping patients stay healthier and happier.
With the move to care in the home has come the adoption of Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM), which shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, the top RCM procedure claim volumes grew by nearly 1,300% from 2019 to the end of 2022. The use of RPM wearable devices, such as fitness trackers, blood pressure cuffs, and pulse oximeters will also continue to make their way into the home.
By 2027, RPM is expected to reach $175.2 billion.
When clinicians have visibility into their patients’ conditions and patients have a sense of control of their health, they’re more likely to engage in their care. A study by the Mayo Clinic found that its RPM program led to better outcomes such as lower ED utilization and hospital readmissions. Plus, the patient engagement rate with the technology was more than 78%.
86% of healthcare leaders say RPM will have the most future impact on hospitals and health systems.
- Increased Focus on SDoH
Health inequities account for about $320 billion in annual healthcare spending and if left unaddressed, could reach $1 trillion by 2040.
Although health equity has been a priority in recent years, less than a quarter of healthcare executives say it will be on the agenda in 2025, a recent Deloitte survey found.
Still, the U.S. ranks the lowest among 10 nations on health equity, access, and outcome measures despite having the highest spend. Suffice to say, therefore, that health equity will continue to be an area of focus as health systems and payers look to close care gaps, provide equitable access, and attract and retain consumers.
This year, expect healthcare organizations to make investments in digital health tools and solutions that identify and address SDoH gaps such as food insecurity, transportation, health literacy, and social isolation, allowing individuals to better engage in their care.
72% of hospital executives say digital health solution adoption will increase over the next 3 years.
- The Rise of Healthcare Apps
From chronic disease and medication management to remote monitoring, diagnostics, and medication adherence, there’s an app for about everything in healthcare.
By 2030, the mHealth app market is estimated to reach more than $86B. In the next 3 to 5 years, approximately one-third of people in the U.S. are very willing to use smart watches and fitness trackers apps, one survey found.
With the move to patient-centered care, healthcare apps will be a vital technology to help patients engage in their care. Some healthcare apps can monitor health metrics and spot issues earlier—allowing people to be proactive in their care. Healthcare apps also offer personalized data insights patients can share with their providers and use to stay motivated to lose weight and be active, for example.
This year, expect to see even more digital health apps, including those for remote patient monitoring programs, preventative care, fall prevention and safety, and support for caregivers.
Improve Patient Engagement in 2025
At Medical Guardian, we understand the challenges providers face in driving patient engagement and improving outcomes. That’s why we’ve developed a connected suite of solutions—including advanced PERS and RPM devices, caregiver apps, AI-driven tools, and tailored patient engagement strategies—to help close gaps in care and address these needs. By partnering with us, providers can deliver integrated patient-centered care, stay ahead of industry trends, and create meaningful touchpoints with their patients. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help transform engagement for your organization.
