Consumer Demand is Reshaping the Healthcare Landscape, Says Deloitte
Consumers are driving significant change in the healthcare industry, forcing life sciences and healthcare (LSHC) organizations to adapt or risk falling behind. According to Deloitte’s "2025 US Life Sciences and Health Care Outlook," the growing power of the consumer will be a major theme in 2025, impacting everything from service delivery to product development.
Deloitte’s recent consumer survey revealed a significant willingness to switch providers who don’t offer preferred options, like virtual visits. This highlights the importance for LSHC organizations to embrace consumer preferences and prioritize choices that prioritize convenience and accessibility.
Furthermore, the report highlights the rise of direct-to-consumer pharmaceutical sales, which could become mainstream in 2025. This shift demonstrates consumers’ increasing desire for control over their healthcare decisions and access to information.
Kulleni Gebreyes, M.D., vice chair and US Life Sciences and Health Care leader at Deloitte, emphasizes the need for a broader perspective: "Organizations must understand that the people they serve are more than just patients or enrollees. They are individuals with unique needs and expectations."
This understanding will enable LSHC organizations to deliver more personalized and impactful experiences, ultimately leading to better health outcomes.
Strategic partnerships across industries are also emerging as a key strategy for success. Deloitte data indicates a surge in investment in health care start-ups, highlighting the opportunity to fill gaps in care and address evolving consumer needs. This convergence could bring about innovative solutions and make healthcare more affordable, accessible, and equitable.
Dr. Gebreyes believes that by embracing this shift and collaborating across sectors, LSHC organizations can create a healthcare system that truly meets the needs of the modern consumer.
It’s clear that 2025 will be a pivotal year for the healthcare industry, with consumer preferences driving significant change and innovation.