12 Best Healthcare Stocks to Buy for 2026

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8. IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX)

1-Year Gain: 59.61%

Upside Potential: 17.15%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 55

IDEXX Laboratories Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX) is one of the best healthcare stocks to buy for 2026. On January 15, IDEXX Laboratories (NASDAQ: IDXX) launched the ImageVue DR50 Plus, its most advanced veterinary imaging system, offering high-definition, AI-powered diagnostics with up to 25% less radiation than its previous model and 60% less than other solutions. Designed to improve safety and efficiency, it reduces retakes, supports new panel sizes, and integrates seamlessly with IDEXX’s Web PACS, telemedicine, and ezyVet software, enabling faster workflows and sharper images that enhance patient care, protect staff, and build trust with pet owners.

On January 13, IDEXX Laboratories Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX) announced that Michael Erickson will become President and Chief Executive Officer, effective May 12, 2026. Erickson is to take over from Jonathan Mazelsky, who will transition to executive Chair of the Board, after which he will retire following the company’s annual shareholder meeting in 2027.

Analysts at Stifel have already echoed the management changes, insisting the CEO transition will be seamless. The analysts expect Erickson to benefit from IDEXX’s portfolio of recently launched products, including inVue, Cancer Dx, and the pending MultiCue Dx POC analyzer. Additionally, Stifel remains confident that IDEXX will deliver a fourth-quarter 2025 Companion Animal Group Diagnostics recurring organic revenue growth estimate of 8.9%.

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ:IDXX) is a global leader in animal health diagnostics and software, providing veterinarians with tools for pet care and offering diagnostic testing for livestock, poultry, and water quality, ensuring safety for humans and animals worldwide.

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