Elon Musk has once again stirred global debate on the future of healthcare, as he claimed recently that artificial intelligence could soon deliver medical care superior to what even world leaders currently
receive. Speaking on a podcast hosted by Peter H. Diamandis and David Blundin, the tech billionaire argued that AI would eventually enable universal access to world-class healthcare, removing inequalities rooted in geography, income, and the shortage of specialists. Musk claimed that AI would one day bring universal access to world-class healthcare. “Everyone would have access to healthcare that's better than the current presidential healthcare, Musk said. “We have seen some advanced cases of automation like LASIK, for example, where the robot just lasers your eyeball, so do you want an ophthalmologist with a hand laser?” he added.
While it may sound futuristic, many experts say parts of this transformation are already happening, or underway - especially in surgery, diagnostics, and cancer care - where AI and robotics are rapidly moving from support tools to intelligent clinical partners.
Robotic assistance and cognitive surgical partners
According to Dr Himesh Gandhi, Consultant Uro-Oncologist and Director of Robotic Surgery at Ruby Hall Clinic, 2026 marks a shift from traditional robotic-assisted surgery to AI-enhanced surgery. Robots like the da Vinci system initially offered mechanical precision, but AI now adds decision-making intelligence, analysing live surgical video, highlighting critical nerves or blood vessels, and warning surgeons of potential complications in real time. Surgeons no longer just look at 2D scans. AI now converts MRIs and CTs into 3D Digital Twins. This allows a surgeon to "practice" a specific patient’s unique anatomy on a simulator before the first incision is ever made, significantly reducing "surprises" during the actual procedure,” Dr Gandhi told Times Now. This reduces unexpected risks during surgery and improves outcomes, especially in complex cancer and urological cases. AI is also shortening surgical learning curves. Tasks that once required dozens of training hours, such as knot-tying in minimally invasive surgery, can now be mastered far more quickly with AI-guided feedback, helping democratise specialist skills.
Growing role of robotics in Orthopedics
In the field of orthopedics, experts say robotics has already transformed multiple fields. The AI systems are currently handling the precision of joint replacements, ensuring accurate implant alignment that directly affects long-term success. Research is also expanding into robotic-assisted ligament and arthroscopic surgeries. “Beyond the operating room, robotics is also finding growing applications in rehabilitation, remote-assisted procedures, and training, making healthcare delivery more efficient and consistent across settings,” said Dr Raghu Nagaraj, Director at the Institute of Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Robotic Joint Replacement at Kauvery Hospitals. “AI is set to play a transformative role in the future of surgery by augmenting, not replacing, the surgeon’s expertise,” Dr Nagaraj added.
Why AI Matters for India
The need for AI and robotics is especially urgent in India. According to Dr Ashwani Kumar Sharma, Vice Chairman at Manipal Comprehensive Cancer Centre, India’s public health system remains overburdened, with specialist care often inaccessible in rural areas. “As AI and robotic adoption expand, these technologies will become a major part of India’s cancer care ecosystem. While challenges related to affordability, training, and infrastructure will remain, continued innovation and policy support could ensure broader access for the public,” said Dr Sharma. Dr Sharma says AI-powered screening tools, which are deployed through mobile clinics, primary health centres, and even smartphones, can help detect cancers and other serious conditions early, when treatment is most effective. “The future of oncology in India is increasingly being shaped by precision-driven, technology-enabled care where better outcomes and patient-centric treatment take priority,” he added. In oncology, where delays in diagnosis can be fatal, AI offers a way to bridge the urban-rural gap by supporting frontline health workers with expert-level analysis.
Also read: ChatGPT Health Has Launched—But Can AI Really Guide Health Decisions Safely?
The way forward
While AI will not replace doctors, experts do agree that it will totally augment human expertise by improving accuracy, safety, and access to all. There are many challenges around affordability, infrastructure, and training, but with sustained innovation, AI-driven healthcare could one day become a reality.
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