Blog

Healthcare and human services organizations in Buffalo Niagara are confronting a convergence of rising costs, shifting regulations, and operational challenges that are redefining how care is delivered, funded, and sustained. As both essential service providers and major employers in the region, these organizations are navigating a period of significant transition with long-term implications for public health and the regional economy.

In May, the Buffalo Niagara Partnership hosted its 2025 Healthcare & Human Services Industry Leaders Forum (ILF), gathering leaders made up of a cross-section of care providers, service providers and healthcare institutions to explore practical strategies for long-term sustainability and systems-level change.

Expert Presenters Included:

• Ikram Massabini, CEO, MVP Network Consulting
• Brian Smith, Vice President of Real Estate Development, People Inc
• Josh Veronica, Director of Government Affairs, Buffalo Niagara Partnership

AI and technology are reshaping operational strategies

Technology is increasingly viewed as a critical tool in meeting sector demands. Ikram Massabini, CEO of MVP Network Consulting, shared how artificial intelligence can help healthcare providers reduce operational waste and improve emergency preparedness. From automating repetitive processes to enhancing data-driven response planning, AI presents a cost-saving opportunity for organizations looking to do more with limited resources.

Built environment is a factor in service outcomes

Physical infrastructure plays a growing role in service delivery, particularly in human services. Brian Smith, Vice President of Real Estate Development at People Inc, emphasized the importance of aligning real estate investments with sustainability goals. Facility design impacts accessibility, community engagement, and long-term efficiency—factors that are becoming increasingly central to care strategy.

Federal policy changes will shape the sector’s trajectory

Understanding and engaging with federal policy changes is essential for leaders in healthcare and human services. Josh Veronica, Director of Government Affairs at the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, led a facilitated discussion focused on two key questions:

Which new federal policies or funding changes will most impact the industry?
Which regulatory requirements are contributing most to the rising cost of healthcare?

The conversation reflected deep concern about the cumulative burden of outdated or conflicting regulations. As policy continues to evolve at the federal level, advocacy and administrative agility will be essential for sustainability.

An industry that anchors the regional economy

The healthcare and human services sectors represent both the foundation of community health and a powerful driver of regional employment and investment. The insights shared at this ILF reinforce the need for innovation, infrastructure alignment, and policy awareness to ensure these sectors remain resilient and responsive in a rapidly changing environment.

The BNP’s ILF series continues throughout 2025, providing a platform for leaders across industries to address shared challenges, seize emerging opportunities, and collaborate on sustainable economic strategies.

Stay tuned for insights from upcoming ILF sessions. Want to be part of the conversation? Learn more about BNP’s Industry Leaders Forum here.