Scaling, Diagnostics, and AI in Action – Highlights from HLTH USA 2025 – Day 2

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Rohit Mahajan

Co-Host of The Big Unlock Podcast

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Thanks for following along. Day 2 brought depth, signal and high-energy exchanges at HLTH USA 2025. I’m looking forward to what tomorrow brings — stay tuned for more insights from Las Vegas!

What stood out on Day 2:

  • Key thematic zones took centre-stage:
    • The AI & Emerging Technology Zone from ~10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, where practical deployment stories and ethical frameworks were front-and-centre.
    • The Diagnostics Zone ran concurrently, highlighting how imaging, molecular, data-driven diagnostics are positioning themselves differently.
    • The Pharma & Life Sciences track, was also active between ~10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, with interesting panels including how AI is reshaping drug development and distribution.
  • Award moments added high-energy: e.g., the “Digital Health Hub AI Awards,” “Diagnostics Awards,” and later the Women @ HLTH reception in the evening. HLTH+1

On the floor, I heard consistent themes such as scaling from pilot to production, moving beyond idealistic AI demos, and diagnostic-enabled value models (vs just imaging tech).

Key reflections for our global health-innovation community

  • AI is shifting from buzz to deployment: It’s clear now that the conversation is less “if we adopt AI” and more “how we embed AI responsibly across diagnostics, pharma and care delivery”.
  • Diagnostics is re-emerging as a core business model, not just a cost centre: With the Diagnostics Zone packed and panels discussing ROI, leadership is viewing diagnostics as strategic (e.g., early detection + data-driven care) rather than ancillary.
  • Pharma & life sciences are embracing tech-driven agility: On panels today, organizations shared how AI and diagnostics are entering earlier into the R&D and commercialization pathways — the ecosystem is consolidating around fewer, more integrated solutions.
  • Awards matter — they signal what the community values: Watching the Digital Health Hub Awards gave me a lens on what makers, investors and buyers are looking at: scalability, measurable outcomes, equity, and sustainability.
  • Networking remains where the magic happens: While the content is strong, the momentum lies in the pairings — whether it’s 1:1 matches via Investor Connect or spontaneous show-floor meetups. These informal connections often generate the most actionable insights.

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Stay informed on the latest in digital health innovation and digital transformation.