Elation Health, the clinical-first technology company powering innovation in modern primary care, today released new survey data from 280 predominantly independent primary care clinicians, revealing a...
Autore: Business Wire
Elation’s Primary Care Pulse survey shows how independent physicians demonstrate resilience and innovation while navigating financial pressure; redefining sustainable primary care
SAN FRANCISCO: Elation Health, the clinical-first technology company powering innovation in modern primary care, today released new survey data from 280 predominantly independent primary care clinicians, revealing a critical shift in the market: while financial pressures are mounting, independent PCPs are actively reshaping how primary care is delivered and sustained.
Over 80% report concern about their financial stability over the next several years, and 64% report their top financial pressure as reimbursement from government and commercial payers; other commonly reported pressures include staffing, technology, and overhead costs, pressures that directly impact practice viability and limit investment in patient care. It tracks that protecting financial stability emerged as most important to clinicians, followed closely by preserving work-life balance. All of these outcomes highlight the urgency for greater sustainable practice and operational models.
“Independent primary care physicians aren’t waiting for the system to change; they’re already taking action,” said Dr. Sara Pastoor, head of primary care advancement at Elation Health. “They’re rejecting the idea that a career in medicine has to come at the expense of their personal lives, and instead are embracing new payment models and technologies that support both. That drive to find balance across delivering great care, building a sustainable practice, and having a personal life is fueling the next era of innovation in primary care.”
Only 2% of Elation respondents reported considering leaving primary care, compared to other national surveys reporting as high as 44% of physicians. In fact, Elation physicians accepting insurance have taken steps toward sustainability rather than abandoning their calling; 27% already include membership or cash-pay models and another 18% adopted value-based payment models. A full 69% are developing plans to address financial concerns now–new payment models, locations, or care offerings–with 67% planning implementation within two years.
Leading the AI Adoption Curve
The resilience from this cohort is not surprising considering that a full 80% of physicians in this report stated feeling joy in their work daily or throughout every week, and 93% remain committed to primary care despite sustainability concerns. A key reported factor behind this engagement is the growing role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), which 58% of physicians see as essential to the future of primary care. More than 65% of respondents already use AI tools, with 98% of those reporting positive impacts, including reduced documentation time (72%) and lower burnout (35%).
“At its core, primary care works best when clinicians are able to put patients first without undue distraction or burden,” said Kyna Fong, CEO and co-founder of Elation Health. “Doing so requires an environment where the operational and financial side of running a practice is predictable, streamlined, and supportive of how physicians choose to care for their patients. When that balance is achieved, everyone benefits-patients, physicians, and our overall healthcare system.”
Together, these findings challenge the assumption that consolidation is the only viable path forward. Instead, Elation’s Primary Care Pulse survey highlights a growing segment of independent, entrepreneurial PCPs who are building financially sustainable practices on their own terms. To review the full survey results report, read here. To learn more or request a demo, visit elationhealth.com.
Methodology: Elation’s Primary Care Pulse (PCP) survey was conducted between January 31 and February 23, 2026 with 280 responses from primary care clinicians actively using the Elation Health platform. 70% of respondents report practicing for 11 years or more, and 52% of respondents are completely unaffiliated with any health system, IPA, CIN or ACO. This is the first year that the Primary Care Pulse survey was conducted. For more details on the results, please contact marketing@elationhealth.com.
About Elation Health
Elation Health is the clinical-first AI platform for modern primary care success. Trusted by over 50,000 clinicians and 24 million patients, Elation’s EHR and billing solutions combine proven clinical workflows with responsible, predictive AI - purpose built for primary care. The company’s clinical-first approach puts physicians at the center, delivering trusted, transparent innovation that saves time and sustains meaningful patient relationships. Elation Health is recognized as Best in KLAS for its commitment to excellence in primary care technology. Learn more at elationhealth.com and on LinkedIn.
Fonte: Business Wire