Key Takeaways From CHIME25 Fall Forum

CHIME25 Fall Forum in San Antonio reinforced why this gathering remains one of healthcare’s most valuable spaces for honest conversation and peer learning. Tegria’s attendees, which included Jeff Webber, Managing Director of Enterprise Systems & Services, and Chad Skidmore, VP of Technology Services, spent the week immersed in discussions about modernization, governance, AI, and the realities facing health systems of all sizes.

Here are the themes that stood out. 

AI Moving Into Everyday Operations 

AI dominated the conference, but the discussions centered on real-world adoption rather than abstract possibilities. Health systems shared examples of ambient clinical tools now in routine use and highlighted fast-growing interest in operational AI aligned with financial and workforce challenges. 

AI has very rapidly moved from hype to a range of practical and successful use cases. Ambient technology is already becoming common, and I heard several examples of AI supporting operations in both provider and payer environments. 

CHAD SKIDMORE

Organizations are at very different stages, with some implementing AI at scale while others are piloting. Many are still drafting governance and policy frameworks. Community and rural organizations are generally adopting AI through features embedded within existing platforms, especially major EHRs, allowing progress within limited staffing and budgets. 

The Growing Importance of Governance 

IT governance surfaced as a central theme across multiple sessions. Leaders described an expanding set of responsibilities, with technology decisions now intertwined with financial planning, workforce strategy, clinical operations, and risk mitigation. 

IT’s role in organizational governance continues to grow, extending far beyond traditional technology decisions. More leaders are being pulled into broader strategic planning because technology now shapes so much of the organization.

JEFF WEBBER

AI is accelerating this shift. Many organizations are building governance frameworks to ensure safe deployment, manage data quality, track outcomes, and align initiatives with enterprise strategy. 

Cybersecurity: Progress With Ongoing Pressure 

Cybersecurity remained a top concern. Leaders discussed the lasting impact of recent high-profile attacks, the rise in cyber insurance requirements, and the growing complexity of proposed regulations. 

Chad noted that past fear-driven spending pulled resources away from modernization efforts and may increase again as standards tighten. Jeff observed that some of the most mature cybersecurity programs are now led by outside CSOs, often former banking and government security leaders who can bring rigorous practices into healthcare. 

Community and Rural Health Struggling To Keep Pace 

Sessions focused on community and rural health highlighted widening disparities in digital maturity. Financial strain limits modernization. IT teams are small and often stretched thin. Innovation is slowed not by lack of commitment, but by lack of time, resources, and exposure to peer best practices. 

Community health organizations continue to struggle with financial pressures that affect every part of their operations. The result is a widening divide between community organizations and larger urban peers, especially when it comes to innovation and modernization.

CHAD SKIDMORE

People and Relationships Still Define CHIME 

Despite the focus on complex technology, the most consistent theme was the power of personal connection. The Forum’s intimate environment encouraged honest dialogue, strong peer interaction, and meaningful relationship-building. The experience reinforced how meaningful it is for healthcare leaders to invest in long-term relationships, returning to shared spaces like CHIME to build trust, exchange ideas, and accelerate progress together. 

Looking Ahead 

CHIME25 made clear that while organizations are progressing at very different speeds, they share common challenges. Clear governance, practical AI strategies, sustainable security, and a renewed focus on equitable modernization are essential. 

Looking to a new season and year, we’re reminded that progress in healthcare technology depends on people. Thoughtful leaders. Collaborative peers. Partners who listen and build solutions grounded in real-world experience. As the industry continues to navigate rapid change, CHIME’s annual forum remains a place where leaders can align on what matters most and move forward with renewed clarity and purpose.