While nearly three-quarters of healthcare executives believe their own organizations will be as strong or stronger in 2026, more than half expect the healthcare industry overall to face a worse year ahead, according to a new survey of industry executives.

Unlike large companies, small business founders and HR leaders are navigating six major tax code changes, new retirement plan credits and reporting rules, multi-state payroll compliance and shifting trade costs largely on their own.

The same tools that drive efficiency may also erode the very human capabilities organizations depend on.