AANP names tech, aging and employer clinics as top 2026 trends

The American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) on Jan. 6 released its list of the top five health care trends for 2026, highlighting technologies and care models it says will reshape how care is delivered.

The release points to “wearable devices that catch health issues sooner” and “artificial intelligence (AI) tools that give clinicians more time with patients” as examples of what the group expects to accelerate in 2026.

According to an organizational release, there are more than 461,000 licensed nurse practitioners (NPs) delivering care nationwide who are “uniquely positioned to help patients navigate these changes and translate innovation into better health outcomes.”

“Patients are increasingly looking for care that fits their lives, supports long-term health and reflects their individual needs,” said AANP President Valerie Fuller, Ph.D., D.N.P. “From new technologies to lifestyle-focused care and expanded access points, nurse practitioners help patients navigate the next chapter of their health journeys.”