The healthcare landscape is undergoing a transformative shift, driven by innovation, collaboration, and a renewed focus on patient-centric care. As we navigate 2026, leaders across the industry are identifying key opportunities and challenges that will shape the future of healthcare. From the integration of AI and emerging technologies to the expansion of value-based care and the push for whole-person healthcare, the focus remains on improving outcomes, reducing costs, and breaking down barriers to access.
At the forefront of these discussions is the Healthcare Leadership Council (HLC), a coalition of executives from every sector of healthcare dedicated to advancing policies and solutions that enhance the U.S. healthcare system. Among the voices contributing to this forward-looking dialogue is Harry Totonis, Chairman and CEO of ConnectiveRx, who shared his perspective on the growing impact of direct-to-consumer (DTC) pharmacy models.
Here’s what Harry had to say:
Harry Totonis, Chairman & CEO, ConnectiveRx
“Direct‑to‑consumer pharmacy models are becoming a major force shaping 2026, giving pharma companies a more direct and transparent connection to patients. By reducing reliance on intermediaries, these models allow savings to flow straight to patients through reimagined pricing and affordability structures and also could provide stronger support services. The result is streamlined access, less administrative friction, and often improved utilization through more direct engagement.
“As DTC models mature, they’re turning years of talk about patient‑centricity into reality – removing friction, delivering easier access, possibly more meaningful savings, and deeper trust built through direct relationships rather than layers of intermediaries.”
Insights to Guide the Year Ahead
As healthcare leaders continue to explore innovative solutions to improve access, affordability, and patient outcomes, the insights shared by HLC members provide a valuable roadmap for the year ahead. To dive deeper into these predictions and understand the trends shaping the future of healthcare, explore the full perspectives shared by industry visionaries like Harry Totonis.