The AI-Powered Payer: Leaders’ Perspectives for 2026

About this Industry Report

Key Highlights 75% of payers plan to invest $10M+ in AI-driven care and payment initiatives Nearly 80% prefer buying or partnering for AI capabilities over building in-house 86% are not fully ready to operationalize AI at scale Interoperability is the #1 barrier, cited by 46% of payers ~45% view AI as critical to advancing member care outcomes 62% prioritize AI-powered personalized member navigation for future success