Rev Cycle Trends to Watch in 2026

Revenue growth and cost cutting are no longer top priorities for revenue cycle leaders as new technologies and a shifting regulatory landscape force a recalibration period.

Revenue cycle strategies are changing as we head into 2026, according to a new report from FinThrive. A survey of 100 revenue cycle leaders reveals a recalibration as traditional tactics deliver diminishing returns.

Increasing revenue dropped as a top goal for 90% of leaders in 2023 to just 58% today. Meanwhile, leaders who consider reducing costs a top goal fell from 65% to 36%.

Here are four trends that will define the future of revenue cycle as decisionmakers focus less on broad cost-cutting and increasing payer rates.

Patient Experience is a Core Focus

Improving the patient experience (71%) has overtaken revenue growth (58%) as the top strategic priority.

With high-deductible health plans becoming more of the norm, patients increasingly double as payers. Administrative friction resulting from clunky digital tools and confusing estimates can have a significant impact on patient payments. Because of this, 52% of health systems are prioritizing self-service patient tools.

Scaling AI and Automation Tools

AI and automation will account for more than half of technology investments in the next year, according to survey results, and around three-quarters of revenue cycle leaders anticipate the launch of a new automation solution over the same time.

Many health systems have demonstrated practical uses for AI-powered tools, using them to perform high-volume, repetitive tasks. However, only 1% of survey respondents say these tools are fully integrated across the full revenue cycle. Moving forward, health systems will look to scale successful pilots. 

Retention is the New Recruitment

As staffing shortages persist, health systems are increasingly focused on retention. Around three-quarters of respondents say their top workforce initiatives are aimed at staff engagement. Around one-third of health systems are exploring bonuses tied to performance and career development models as part of their retention strategies. Another 30% of health systems are cross-training revenue cycle staff to create career growth opportunities and increase job satisfaction.

Technology plays a prominent role in staff retention strategies. Around 60% of survey respondents say reducing staff burden is a primary goal for their investments in AI and automation tools.

Policy Volatility Fuels Cybersecurity Concerns

Policy volatility is creating uncertainty around long-term financial planning. Rather than trying to predict the future, revenue cycle leaders are aiming to improve their adaptability. Their priorities here include improving payer-provider data exchange, enhancing real-time eligibility verification and estimate accuracy, and implementing technologies that can track rule changes.

As a result, health systems are sharpening their focus on cybersecurity. As the federal government pulls back on support for threat intelligence, health system leaders will likely need to divert funds to cover their cybersecurity needs.