AI and digital tool integration in healthcare

Global trends and corporate implementations indicate that artificial intelligence and digital tools are significantly altering healthcare access and consumer experiences.

A global survey of 7,500 respondents across 10 markets found that 56% of consumers are influenced by AI tools when seeking medical information, surpassing the 45% influenced by social media. While clinical doctors remain the most trusted source, 70% of respondents have sought or would consider seeking treatments based on search engine information. The report also noted diverse channels for accessing GLP-1 medications, with 20% of users obtaining them through online sources and 20% through informal networks.

In the United States, Aetna is applying these technological shifts by using AI to increase cost transparency. The company rebuilt a cost-estimation tool that utilizes natural language and AI to help members estimate the costs of over 20,000 medical services. Following the implementation of this AI-driven approach, usage of the tool among members planning procedures increased from under 10% to nearly 70%.