2026 Lab Trend Report

Lab testing influences 70% of clinical decisions, yet it remains one of healthcare’s most utilized and least actively managed benefits. As diagnostic innovation accelerates, payers face growing pressure to manage rising costs, expanding genetic testing, AI-enabled diagnostics, and an increasingly complex policy landscape.

Now in its sixth year, Avalon Healthcare Solutions’ 2026 Lab Trend Report delivers exclusive, real-world insights from millions of covered lives, revealing the trends reshaping diagnostic medicine. From routine and genetic testing utilization to emerging technologies, site-of-service pricing, and evidence-based management strategies, the report equips payers with the data and perspective needed to improve care, manage costs, and prepare for what’s next.

2026 Report Highlights

• 30%+ of U.S. lab testing represents avoidable waste.
• 35% increase in genetic testing spend in 2025, outpacing utilization growth.
• 15.5% of total lab spend averted through Avalon-managed programs.
• 6 years of longitudinal data and analysis tracking the evolution of diagnostic medicine.

Inside the 2026 Lab Trend Report

• 2025 Lab Trends: Explore utilization and spending trends across routine and genetic testing, site of service discrepancies, and the forces driving future growth.
• Emerging Innovations: Learn how AI, liquid biopsy, blood biomarkers, and direct-to-consumer testing are transforming precision medicine.
• Real-World Evidence: Discover case studies demonstrating measurable savings and improved outcomes through evidence-based laboratory and routine radiology management.
• Policy & Market Outlook: Understand the reimbursement, regulatory, and site-of-service trends shaping the future of diagnostic care.
• Actionable Insights: Gain practical strategies to reduce waste, close care gaps, and optimize diagnostic benefit management.