19 Jan Health Data News Roundup: Claude AI for Healthcare; Healthcare in 2026; and the Future for Payers

Welcome to the Health Data Weekly News Roundup from IMAT Solutions. As the power of data continues to grow in the healthcare arena, today’s care organizations need to be on the forefront of all news and trends to help ensure that their data analytics efforts deliver accountable and informed care. Each week, we will provide you with the actionable news you need to meet these goals.

Anthropic Launches Claude AI for Healthcare with Secure Health Record Access
Anthropic has become the latest Artificial intelligence (AI) company to announce a new suite of features that allows users of its Claude platform to better understand their health information, according to Hacker News.

What to Expect in U.S. Healthcare in 2026 and Beyond
The healthcare industry faces successive waves of challenging trends, with glimmers of opportunity in select segments, including health services and technology (HST), supported by advances in technology and AI, according to McKinsey.

The Future of the Healthcare Payer: Partner for Life, Half the Cost, Twice the Service
The payers of 2035 can become trusted partners for life, orchestrators of holistic support for members and families in an increasingly complex healthcare ecosystem by using AI and advanced technologies to anticipate needs and guide members seamlessly, according to PWC.

PODCAST: Why 2026 Is the Digital Tipping Point for Healthcare Data
In the latest episode of Advancing Healthcare Through Data podcast series, Mark Coetzer, VP of Business Development at IMAT Solutions, discusses why 2026 marks a turning point for healthcare data, quality reporting, and value-based care. Listen to the episode here.

How Healthcare Innovation Starts with Regulation and Ends With Integration
Healthcare innovation scales through regulation, as compliance with safety, privacy and reimbursement rules increasingly forms the foundation of durable progress for the sector, according to PYMNTS Magazine.

UnitedHealthcare Launches Accelerated Medicare Advantage Payment Program for Rural Hospitals
UnitedHealthcare has launched a six-month pilot program aimed at cutting Medicare Advantage payment processing times in half for independent rural hospitals in four states, according to Becker’s Payer Issues.