Respondents recognize the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate earlier analysis and improve treatment exposure, as indicated in a recent study by Medtronic and Morning Consult.
A recent survey conducted by Medtronic, a prominent player in healthcare technology on a global scale, in collaboration with Morning Consult, revealed that over half (51%) of American adults hold a positive outlook on the forthcoming year, foreseeing substantial progress and breakthroughs in healthcare through the application of AI.
The areas where optimism regarding AI in healthcare is particularly high are diagnostics and improved access to care. A significant 66% of individuals agree that the ability to diagnose and detect health issues stands out as a key benefit of AI in healthcare. Moreover, approximately 56% of adults believe that AI can play a pivotal role in enhancing healthcare access, with about 65% acknowledging its potential to eliminate barriers to healthcare services.
Ken Washington, the Chief Technology and Innovation Officer at Medtronic, emphasizes the transformative impact of disruptive technologies like AI on daily routines, influencing aspects such as shopping, communication, and healthcare delivery. Despite understandable skepticism, the study underscores a prevailing enthusiasm for integrating AI into healthcare practices. Washington envisions a future where interactions with AI will be distinctly innovative within the next five to ten years. He expresses confidence that the responsible and ethical utilization of AI has the capacity to significantly elevate care standards for both patients and healthcare providers.
Overcoming perceived challenges associated with AI implementation is crucial for instilling confidence among consumers.
While a majority of Americans exhibit optimism towards AI, there are still hurdles to surmount. Among respondents skeptical of AI, concerns include the potential for errors (83%), perceived risks due to insufficient understanding of how AI enhances health outcomes (80%), and the necessity to address these obstacles to bolster confidence, as indicated by nearly half (47%) of respondents.
Consumers express a preference for human decision-making over AI, especially in healthcare settings. Although there is a willingness to leverage AI for health management, the survey highlights a reluctance for doctors to heavily rely on AI in patient care.
- 62% of adults show support for health-related apps and symptom monitoring tools utilizing AI technology.
- However, only 36% of patients and 20% of individuals are inclined to work with doctors extensively using AI.
- Specific scenarios showcasing AI applications by doctors, such as evaluating tests, x-rays, and CT scans, or aiding in cancer detection, garner more acceptance from respondents.
- Individuals in good health (53%) are more open to collaborating with AI-utilizing doctors compared to those rating their health as fair (29%).
While acknowledging the value of AI in healthcare, the irreplaceable role of human judgment and expertise is underscored. The integration of AI into healthcare processes is envisioned to enhance outcomes and experiences, rather than replacing specialized human skills entirely.
Medtronic has been at the forefront of AI-based technology research and development, focusing on insights-driven care spanning from treatment to monitoring, exemplifying a commitment to innovative healthcare solutions.
For detailed discussions on AI in healthcare and insights from the survey, Ken Washington is expected to elaborate on these topics during the upcoming Techonomy23 event in Orlando, Florida.
For further information on Medtronic’s dedication to advancing healthcare through technology and examples of their AI-driven solutions, visit Medtronic.com.
The AI Survey’s Client Views: The survey, conducted by Morning Consult, a decision intelligence firm, involved a nationally representative sample of 2,213 U.S. adults from September 27-30, 2023, with an unweighted margin of error of +/- 2 percentage points.
About Medtronic: Medtronic plc, headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, is a leading global healthcare technology company committed to addressing significant health challenges by delivering innovative solutions. With a mission to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life, Medtronic operates across 150+ countries, offering a diverse range of technologies and therapies across 70 health conditions, including cardiac devices, surgical robotics, insulin pumps, and patient monitoring systems. Empowered by a dedicated team of over 95,000 individuals, Medtronic’s pursuit of innovative technologies aims to transform lives and enhance healthcare outcomes worldwide. For more information on Medtronic (NYSE: MDT), visit www.Medtronic.com and follow @Medtronic on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Forward-Looking Statements: Any statements indicating future developments are subject to risks and uncertainties, as outlined in Medtronic’s regular filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual outcomes may vary significantly from anticipated results.
