New independent research by HealthTech consultancy nuom has found that the older generation and people with disabilities are worried about being excluded when it comes to AI in healthcare.
The survey of 2,000 UK adults, which was conducted in February of this year, has found that:
- 73% of respondents who have a disability are concerned that AI could exclude people who aren’t confident using technology
- 37% of people with disabilities worry about being left behind as AI becomes more common in healthcare.
- Only 47% of those aged 55+ are comfortable using digital healthcare tools, compared to 71% of people aged 18–34
- 48% of 18-34 year olds understand how AI could be applied in healthcare versus only 21% of those aged 55+.
The use of AI within the healthcare system is becoming increasingly embedded, but that doesn’t mean everyone is comfortable using it. The research found that 73% of respondents who have a physical or mental disability are concerned that AI could exclude people who aren’t confident in using it, up from 66% of respondents who don’t have a disability.
Further, over a third (37%) of people with disabilities are worried that they will be left behind as AI becomes more prevalent in the healthcare sector.
This sentiment is shared by those in older age groups. When asked if they had a good understanding of how AI could be applied in healthcare, only 21% of those aged 55 and above agreed. This more than doubled to 48% in the younger generations.
Similarly, under half (47%) of over 55s said they are comfortable using digital healthcare tools, compared to 71% of respondents ages 18-34.
Respondents also expressed concern that the implementation of AI could lead to a shift in priorities. The research revealed that two-thirds (59%) believe that the speed and efficiency of patient care could be prioritised over the personal care that some patients require.
Martin Sandhu, Managing Partner at nuom, said: “The healthcare industry is increasingly catching on to the benefits of AI, from patient care to making the service more efficient. But it’s clear from our research that more effort needs to be made when it comes to raising awareness about the benefits of well-implemented technology.
“This rings especially true for the older generation and people with disabilities. When applied well, AI can do wonders for these groups: greater patient care, increased accessibility and individual health empowerment, to name a few. Moving forward, the role of technology, AI and digital tools in healthcare will only grow, so it’s imperative we do more to ensure that the technology is available to all and that no single group feels excluded by its presence. If we do that, AI can be a force for good in healthcare, for everybody.”
