Do doctors and patients trust AI in health care?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping the landscape of health care, from streamlining administrative tasks to aiding in complex clinical decision-making. Tools powered by AI are being used to interpret imaging scans, predict patient deterioration, assist in diagnosis, and personalize treatment plans. While the technology holds enormous promise for improving efficiency, accuracy, and outcomes, its success depends heavily on the trust it earns from both health care providers and patients.

Trust in AI hinges on several factors. For clinicians, confidence in the accuracy, transparency, and consistency of AI recommendations is key. They must understand how AI tools reach their conclusions and feel assured that these tools will support—not override—their clinical judgment. For patients, trust is often rooted in the belief that AI will be used ethically, protect their privacy, and ultimately enhance their care without depersonalizing it.

The Philips Future Health Index report underscores a growing, but cautious, optimism. Many health professionals see AI as a valuable aid that can reduce burnout by automating routine tasks and improving diagnostic precision. Patients, meanwhile, are open to AI when it is used under the supervision of a trusted physician. However, both groups express concerns about data security, bias, and loss of human touch.

Building and maintaining trust in AI will be critical as its role in health care expands. Transparency, strong clinical validation, and responsible implementation will be essential to ensuring that AI serves as a trustworthy partner in care.