AI in healthcare – American consumers reveal willingness to use but privacy concerns remain
March 29th, 2023, Kineree Shah

AI in healthcare – American consumers reveal willingness to use but privacy concerns remain

Healthcare is undergoing a rapid transformation thanks to artificial intelligence, and consumer-friendly AI-powered applications like symptom checkers and mental health apps are gaining popularity. Personalized treatment plans, quicker and more precise diagnoses, and better patient outcomes are all promised by this tech. Yet, there are also worries around the confidentiality and privacy of individual health records, as well as the possibility that AI may aggravate current healthcare disparities and reinforce prejudices.

YouGov surveyed 1,202 American adults to learn about consumer perceptions of AI-powered healthcare solutions and their possible effects on the sector.

According to our data, a fifth of Americans have used or plan to use an AI-powered healthcare solution in the near future (21%). Nearly the same percentage (22%) say they have never utilized such tools before but are interested in doing so. It's worth noting that three in five consumers of this subset expressed concerns about the potential risks and downsides of using AI in healthcare (60%).

When it comes to sharing personal data with AI-powered healthcare providers, nearly half (48%) expressed willingness to do so while about a third of Americans were reluctant (29%).

Two in five of Americans who either used AI-powered healthcare tools in the past or are interested in using them in the future say they do not trust the medical diagnosis generated from AI-powered applications (41%). However, nearly a third of respondents (29%) remained neutral, presenting an opportunity for brands to increase trust by educating consumers through targeted marketing campaigns.

In terms of usefulness of AI in healthcare, three in five Americans (58%) polled say that it is only helpful if it reduces the cost of medical treatment. This suggests that cost reduction is a significant factor for consumers when it comes to adopting AI-powered healthcare tools.

While a considerable proportion of Americans polled expressed interest in AI-powered healthcare applications, a third say they are not aware of them (35%). Healthcare brands using AI may need to address American’s concerns over sharing personal data and increase trust to drive adoption. Additionally, cost reduction will likely be an important consideration for many consumers.

In related news find out Briton’s perception towards AI in healthcare.

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Methodology: YouGov Surveys: Serviced provide quick survey results from nationally representative or targeted audiences in multiple markets. This study was conducted online on 21-22 March 2023, with a nationally representative sample of 1,202 adults in the US (aged 18+ years), using a questionnaire designed by YouGov. Data figures have been weighted by age, gender, education, region, and race to be representative of all adults in the US market (18 years or older) and reflect the latest US Census Bureau population estimates. Learn more about YouGov Surveys: Serviced.