As healthcare organizations face growing patient expectations, workforce shortages, and evolving compliance requirements, it is becoming clear that traditional Information Technology (IT) architectures built around Systems of Record (SoR) and Systems of Engagement (SoE) can no longer keep up. While SoRs store data and SoE’s facilitate communication, they fall short in supporting real-time, intelligent execution.
This is where Systems of Action (SoA) step in. Think of them as the no-nonsense problem-solvers in your tech stack. They do not just recommend the next step, they take it, as our analysts have explained below.
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A System of Action is not simply another layer of technology. It is an integrated, intelligent platform that combines data, artificial intelligence (AI), and workflows to autonomously orchestrate decisions and execute actions across systems in real time.
In healthcare, this capability is a game changer. It helps providers and payers shift from reactive administration to proactive care. The result is a better patient experience and significantly improves operational performance.
Exhibit 1
From “we should do this” to “it’s already done
Traditional healthcare systems are excellent at recording data (Electronic Health Records (EHRs), claims systems) and enabling engagement (portals, messaging platforms), but they don’t act on that information autonomously. For instance, a provider may have access to a patient’s history and predictive analytics, but someone still needs to manually intervene to close a care gap or flag a high-risk patient.
In contrast, SoA’s translate insights into action. They detect care gaps in real time, trigger patient outreach, schedule follow-ups, alert care managers, and coordinate with labs or specialists, all without waiting for manual intervention.
This paradigm shift transforms execution. It’s no longer just about knowing what to do, but having the system actually do it, intelligently and on a scale.
Why SoA’s are the moment?
- Data overload: So much data, so little context. SoA’s turn noise into action
- Value-based care: Timing is everything. SoA’s embed triggers that catch problems before they cost you
- Consumer expectations: Patients want Amazon-level service. SoA’s deliver automated, omnichannel magic
- Workforce burnout: Your team is tired. SoA’s automate the boring stuff so humans can do the high-impact work
*SoA’s are like having an invisible ops team that never sleeps, never complains, and knows exactly when to act!
The secret sauce: agentic AI in action
We have heard AI hype. Predictions, flags, dashboards galore. But without a way to act on those insights, even the smartest AI just ends up collecting digital dust.
Here is how SoA’s make AI work in the real world:
1. Real-time data activation
Healthcare data is fragmented and often outdated. Legacy systems rely on static integration, which breaks down during fast-moving situations such as seasonal surges or policy changes. SoA’s support a flexible, unified data environment that dynamically combines and contextualizes information at the point of care or administration. This enables faster, more accurate decision-making
2. AI-driven decision orchestration
Instead of relying on people to interpret AI insights and take action, SoA’s instead embed decision engines directly into workflows. For example, if a patient is identified as high-risk, the system can automatically update the care plan, schedule a virtual visit, and coordinate home monitoring. This reduces delays and improves outcomes
3. Adaptive process execution
Healthcare is complex, and rigid workflows often fail to keep up. SoA’s introduce adaptive workflows that change based on context. Whether reallocating hospital beds or adjusting documentation procedures based on new payer rules, the system responds dynamically and with precision
4. Empowered workforce
By automating routine execution, SoA’s free up clinicians and administrators to focus on exceptions and oversight. This leads to better productivity, lower stress, and a higher-value use of human expertise
Making the shift: The SoA roadmap
Transitioning to a System of Action architecture is not a one-time upgrade. It requires a strategic, phased approach. Everest Group’s analysts outline below the four key building blocks for successful adoption:
Exhibit 2
From ambition to action
Healthcare does not need more dashboards or ideas. It needs execution!
Systems of Action connect the dots, drives workflows, and move AI from concept to reality. As administrative complexity increases and patient expectations continue to rise, SoA’s are no longer optional. They are not just a smart investment for the future either; they are now the operational foundation healthcare needs today to convert intelligence into measurable outcomes.
If you found this blog interesting, check out our Economic Oasis: How Revenue Cycle Management Is Emerging As An Investment Beacon | Blog – Everest Group, which delves deeper into another topic regarding the Healthcare sector.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss these topics in more detail, feel free to contact Hanupriya Nangia ([email protected]) and Priya Sahni ([email protected]).
