Patients trust doctors, not AI, with their medical data

Patients trust doctors, not AI, with their medical data © Kitinut - stock.adobe.com

The average American adult would be more than happy to share their health data with their physician if it meant an improvement in their personal health. But if that same American were asked to share their personal health data with tech company training artificial intelligence (AI)? They might be a bit more hesitant.

According to a survey of 2,002 U.S. adults from data analytics firm Qlik, 69% of Americans are comfortable sharing their health data to benefit their personal care, but that figure drops to just 40% when the data is destined for corporate AI development.

In fact, if given the choice, more Americans would rather donate blood (52%) than donate their health data (24%).

The data divide: Personal benefit vs. commercial use

The survey points to a clear friction point in AI adoption: people distinguish sharply between health data use for clinical care vs. for profit.

One-third of respondents reported feeling actively uncomfortable with commercial use of their health data. Even among those who are open to AI-driven innovation, the idea of their information fueling profit without oversight appears to hit a nerve.

“AI in health care can only succeed when patients and clinicians remain at the center of every decision,” said Mike Capone, CEO of Qlik. “With transparency and clear consent, we can help ensure that AI enhances, rather than erodes, trust in health care.”

Americans are wary of handing the reins to algorithms. While just 28% would accept a prescription written solely by an AI tool, support jumps to 63% when a human clinician is involved in the decision.

The results suggest that physicians still serve as the public’s trust anchor in an era of rapid digital transformation. Rather than AI replacing human judgment, respondents prefer a hybrid model where technology supports — but doesn’t supplant — clinicians.

Generational divides

The survey also found a stark divide across generations. Younger Americans, particularly Gen Z, are more open to broader uses of their health data. Half of Gen Z respondents said they’re comfortable with government agencies using their data to guide policy. Only 36% of seniors agreed.

This split could shape future expectations around digital health governance, with younger adults potentially more open to systemic data use in exchange for public health improvements.

And despite broad media coverage and investment in AI health care solutions, many Americans are still waiting to see real-world value.

Although 41% believe their health insurer is already using their data, only 34% said they have seen meaningful improvements in care from AI. That perception gap may stall adoption unless health systems demonstrate tangible benefits.

The survey also pointed to a potential lever for engagement: nearly 60% of Americans said they’d be more likely to share their data if they were compensated.

For physicians and practice leaders navigating AI integration, the message is clear: trust is the currency. Patients are not opposed to innovation — they want to know how it helps them, who profits from it, and whether their doctor is still involved.

“Real progress demands more than promises,” the report concludes. “It requires new models that respect individual control and offer tangible benefits.”