Artificial intelligence is increasingly transforming the landscape of healthcare as patients turn to AI tools for medical research. A recent poll conducted by Sacred Heart University, in collaboration with GreatBlue Research and Gray Media, surveyed 1,500 participants and found that two out of every three respondents have already encountered AI applications in their healthcare services.
The survey highlighted substantial dissatisfaction with the current healthcare system, with wait times emerging as the top concern for 38% of participants. Other significant issues included navigating insurance, financial constraints, and difficulties in scheduling appointments.
In response to these challenges, healthcare facilities are adopting AI-driven solutions such as chatbots to assist with appointment scheduling and reminders, which allows healthcare professionals to dedicate more time to patient care. This shift is particularly relevant given that nearly 40% of respondents reported leaving medical appointments unclear about their treatment instructions.
Furthermore, the survey indicated that 86% of participants have taken the initiative to research their medical conditions or treatment options independently, with 37% specifically utilizing AI in their searches. As interest in AI grows, 38% of those polled believe that AI will take over certain tasks traditionally performed by doctors within the next decade.
Michael Vigeant, CEO of GreatBlue Research, remarked, “It’s pretty clear. Doc is still in the lead for making those decisions and providing that advice, but it’s also very clear that AI is going to quickly become a larger percentage of that conversation, that diagnosis, that treatment plan.” While the potential of AI is acknowledged, nearly all respondents expressed a desire to maintain control over its application in their healthcare.
The poll unveiled that 88% of participants want to be informed when AI is utilized in their care. Additionally, 86% emphasized the importance of having a clear explanation of how AI is employed before its application, and 83% insisted on the right to opt out if they choose.
Foluke Omosun, an assistant professor at Sacred Heart University, stated, “You see doctors using AI to transcribe notes. It’s saving them time. It’s giving better quality care for their patients. They’re having more time to do other things. So I feel like this is something that doctors should be excited about.”
Experts in healthcare research suggest that the expanding role of AI should not intimidate healthcare providers. Instead, it serves to highlight areas where patients are open to AI assistance, freeing doctors to concentrate on delivering care rather than on administrative tasks.
As AI continues to proliferate within the healthcare sector, the balance between technology and human oversight remains a critical conversation. The findings from this poll suggest that while patients are embracing the efficiencies offered by AI, they equally value transparency and agency in their medical care. Moving forward, the integration of AI in healthcare is likely to evolve, prompting ongoing discussions about best practices and ethical considerations.
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