Artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools are becoming increasingly important in the healthcare sector, with healthcare executives optimistic about their potential to revolutionize the delivery of care. A recent survey by Chartis revealed that nine out of ten leaders are prioritizing the implementation of digital and AI products to improve access to care, accurately forecast demand, and cater to a larger number of patients.
The survey, which involved 150 health system executives, highlighted the urgent need for the healthcare industry to shift from a reactive approach to illness towards a proactive management of patients’ health in order to address the current challenges of affordability and accessibility. The majority of leaders agreed that the existing healthcare system is not providing affordable or timely access to primary or specialty care, and without significant changes, these challenges are likely to worsen in the next five years.
Tom Kiesau, Chief AI and Digital Officer at Chartis, emphasized the importance of this moment, stating that healthcare executives seem to unanimously agree on the necessity for fundamental change in the industry. The survey also indicated that financial pressures on providers, the shortage of clinical workers, and the issue of provider burnout could all escalate if no action is taken.
Despite these challenges, health system leaders are optimistic about the potential of digital health and AI technologies to address these issues. The survey revealed that the majority of respondents consider the expansion of AI-backed triage and care navigation services as crucial for meeting patient demand and ensuring efficient resource allocation. Implementing AI capacity and referral management tools, as well as freeing up providers’ time from administrative tasks through AI, were also highlighted as key priorities for health systems.
In terms of implementation, more than half of the surveyed executives reported either implementing or piloting programs for acute hospital care at home and non-acute services in the home. Additionally, a significant percentage of health systems are piloting AI-backed capacity and referral management tools, as well as AI triage and care navigation products.
The healthcare industry is at a critical juncture, with the potential for significant transformation through the adoption of AI and digital tools. By prioritizing these technologies and making strategic changes to their operations, health systems can pave the way for a more proactive, accessible, and affordable healthcare system in the years to come.
