What's Happening?
Health system and hospital executives in the U.S. are increasingly focusing on automation and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance operational efficiency, particularly in administrative tasks. According
to a survey conducted by Lirio and Sage Growth Partners, 60% of executives from health systems, independent hospitals, and physician groups prioritize automating patient outreach to reduce administrative burdens. However, there is a notable gap between this priority and actual AI investment strategies. While 96% of executives acknowledge the potential of AI to alleviate administrative tasks, only 35% have invested in AI tools specifically for patient outreach. Instead, the majority are channeling resources into AI solutions that improve clinician workflows, such as automated documentation. This trend is driven by the immediate, visible benefits these operational tools provide, in contrast to the longer-term impact of patient engagement technologies.
Why It's Important?
The focus on operational efficiency over patient engagement in AI investments highlights a critical challenge in the healthcare sector. While operational tools offer quick returns on investment by streamlining workflows and reducing staff burdens, patient engagement technologies are essential for long-term health outcomes. These tools can improve medication adherence, reduce no-show rates, and close care gaps, ultimately leading to better population health and reduced healthcare costs. However, the delayed impact of these technologies makes them less attractive under financial pressures. This prioritization could affect patient care quality and the ability of health systems to engage patients effectively, potentially leading to missed opportunities in preventative care and chronic disease management.
What's Next?
To address the disconnect between AI priorities and investments, health systems may need to reassess their strategies and consider the long-term benefits of patient engagement technologies. This could involve redefining success metrics to include leading indicators that predict long-term value. By demonstrating early wins and aligning these with health system priorities, stakeholders can be encouraged to invest in technologies that transform patient care. Additionally, advancements in AI, such as conversational AI, could enhance data quality and patient experience, providing a pathway for integrating patient engagement tools into existing systems.
