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In Part 1 of Radio Advisory’s What CEOs need to know in 2026 series, we explored how responsibility for protecting access is diffusing as the safety net continues to fray. But that’s only one way control over healthcare delivery is shifting. In Part 2, we turn to other subtle — but significant — ways power is moving away from traditional centers of influence.

As utilization and costs rise, purchasers are reaching the limits of their traditional approaches to spend management. In 2026, new players are stepping in as purchasers seek specialized solutions for specific treatments and conditions, increasingly delegating outcomes management to third party vendors. At the same time, a growing ecosystem of advisors and external voices is reshaping the options available to patients and clinicians alike.

In this episode, hosts Rachel (Rae) Woods and Abby Burns are joined once again by Advisory Board experts Natalie Trebes and Max Hakanson. Together, they break down how the diffusion of ownership over rising healthcare costs — and the expanding influence of new players on clinical decisionmakers — are redefining the power dynamics every healthcare leader must navigate.

Missed part one? Be sure to subscribe to Radio Advisory so that you never miss an episode!

We’re here to help:

• Explore Advisory Board's 12 Things CEOs Need to Know in 2026 for strategies to help your organization thrive.
• 281: What CEOs need to know in 2026 (Part 1)
• Read Advisory Board’s 2026 research agenda
• The State of the Healthcare Industry in 2026
• 3 trends shaping healthcare in 2026 (and how to respond)
• Healthcare Policy Updates Timeline
• 280: The questions Advisory Board is asking in 2026
• [Webinar] State of the Industry: Managing spend amid rising costs
• [Webinar] State of the Industry: Shaping care decisions amid diffusing influence

We want to hear from you. What are your challenges? Where are you seeing opportunities? Email us at podcasts@advisory.com

Explore Advisory Board's 12 Things CEOs Need to Know in 2026 for strategies to help your organization thrive. Not a member? Access a complimentary excerpt today.

A transcript of this episode as well as more information and resources can be found on RadioAdvisory.advisory.com.