GWYNEDD VALLEY, PA — A recent survey conducted by The Harris Poll for Gwynedd Mercy University (GMercyU) highlights both enthusiasm and apprehension among Americans regarding artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare. The survey, which polled 2,099 U.S. adults, reveals a strong belief in AI’s ability to improve health outcomes and reduce costs, coupled with concerns about its implementation.
More than half of respondents (59%) believe AI will lead to better patient outcomes, while 57% predict it will lower healthcare costs within the next decade. A significant majority (77%) also see AI as a tool for reducing healthcare disparities in the coming years, with many citing its potential to enhance early disease detection (42%) and provide affordable diagnostic options (36%).
“AI’s ability to automate certain tasks will allow physicians, nurses, and other clinicians to focus more on delivering exceptional patient care,” said Dr. Jane Tang, Dean of GMercyU’s Frances M. Maguire College of Nursing and Health Professions. “While AI can never replace the critical human connection in healthcare, its integration creates opportunities to improve outcomes and efficiency.”
The survey also found that 75% of Americans think AI should play a role in educating and training healthcare professionals, underscoring the importance of technological advancements in healthcare education. Additionally, 77% expressed willingness to use AI-assisted services, such as tools for monitoring chronic conditions (35%), predictive health alerts (33%), and virtual assistance (31%).
However, the findings revealed widespread concerns about AI implementation. Nearly nine in ten respondents (88%) expressed reservations, with 58% noting a lack of human oversight as a significant worry.
Recognizing these challenges, GMercyU is preparing to open its Healthcare Innovation Center later this year. The 63,000-square-foot facility will focus on ethical and intentional use of AI in healthcare, giving students hands-on experience with advanced technologies while emphasizing empathy and ethical decision-making.
“The validation of our approach to healthcare education through these survey findings is encouraging,” said Deanne H. D’Emilio, JD, President of GMercyU. “We remain focused on preparing students to balance technological advancements with the human-centered care that defines exceptional healthcare.”
AI’s growing role in healthcare is reshaping the industry, offering new potential to improve outcomes, but as Americans emphasize, careful and ethical implementation remains key.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.