AI in Healthcare: Key Takeaways from HIMSS25

Coming back from HIMSS25, one thing is clear ... AI is not a future conversation, it is a right-now conversation.

Between reconnecting with incredible people, including my fellow GA HIMSS members, and attending some truly insightful sessions, one keynote stood out the most: Gen. Paul Nakasone’s talk on AI and cybersecurity.

A 'Sputnik Moment' for AI in Healthcare

Gen. Nakasone, former NSA Director & U.S. Cyber Commander, framed AI adoption in healthcare as our Sputnik moment. Just as the space race changed the course of history, the AI revolution is here, and healthcare must embrace it, not react to it.

Key Themes & Takeaways

? AI is already reshaping healthcare - From drug discovery to disease detection, AI is driving breakthroughs that improve patient outcomes and operational efficiency.

? Ransomware remains the #1 cybersecurity threat to healthcare - With $1.9M in daily revenue losses due to cyberattacks, the industry must use AI to detect, prevent, and mitigate threats faster.

? AI is not replacing clinicians - Instead, it must be integrated into workflows to enhance decision-making and reduce administrative burdens.

? Radical partnerships are needed - Drawing from the success of Operation Warp Speed, Nakasone emphasized the need for public-private partnerships in cybersecurity to protect healthcare infrastructure.

? Workforce & AI education gaps must be addressed - Future healthcare professionals must understand AI just as policymakers should learn to code. The U.S. needs to invest in AI education to maintain national security and economic competitiveness.

Why This Matters

Gen. Nakasone’s message was clear ... waiting is not an option. AI is already shaping the future of healthcare, and organizations that hesitate risk falling behind.

Healthcare leaders, security professionals, and policymakers must work together to integrate AI responsibly, strengthen cybersecurity, and prepare the workforce for this shift.

Final Thoughts: Where Do We Go from Here?

AI in healthcare is not just about efficiency ... it is about resilience, security, and innovation.

As we move forward, the question is not whether healthcare will adopt AI but how well we will integrate it.