John Paganini, President of Paguar Informatics, was honored with the 2026 HIMSS Changemaker in Health Award in the Global Patient Innovator category. The award recognizes inspirational healthcare leaders who improve care through the innovative use of information and technology.
The recognition reflects Paganini’s longstanding commitment to advancing healthcare technology, patient-centered innovation, and the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence. His work has focused on bringing healthcare, technology, education, and community leaders together to address practical opportunities and challenges surrounding AI.
As Co-Chair of the Northern Ohio HIMSS AI Center of Excellence, Paganini helped establish a growing regional collaboration focused on AI governance, technology, data management, AI Health Literacy, and human-centered design. The initiative brings together more than 170 participants working to improve patient outcomes, strengthen operational performance, and promote the safe, responsible, and transparent use of AI in healthcare.
The award also recognizes Paganini’s broader career in healthcare information technology, including leadership in radiology information systems, enterprise imaging, interoperability, product development, entrepreneurship, and healthcare innovation.
During HIMSS26, Paganini discussed how collaboration through the Northern Ohio HIMSS AI Center of Excellence is helping advance healthcare AI across the region. His HIMSS TV interview highlights the importance of combining diverse perspectives, practical education, responsible governance, and a continued focus on patients.