The 2026 RCM Index

What Healthcare Leaders Really Think about RCM in 2026

RCM leaders are moving past experimentation. The focus for 2026 is execution. Denials, AR pressure, and rising collection costs continue to strain revenue teams, while AI and automation are shifting from optional to expected.

To understand how organizations respond,we surveyed healthcare revenue and finance leaders across provider organizations. The findings show a grounded approach. Most teams are modernizing in stages, keeping core control in-house while adopting automation where it drives measurable impact.

Many leaders report having data without clarity, and systems that do not speak to each other. At the same time, priorities are clear. Reduce denials, improve forecasting, and automate manual work that slows cash flow.

This report breaks down what leaders are doing now, where gaps still exist, and how RCM teams are preparing for 2026.