CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — A new report from Royal Philips reveals a growing divide between healthcare professionals and patients regarding trust in artificial intelligence, potentially slowing the adoption of AI solutions that could relieve strain on the U.S. healthcare system.
The 2025 Future Health Index report, titled “Building Trust in Healthcare AI,” highlights how AI is increasingly viewed by clinicians as a valuable tool to improve care delivery, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance the patient experience. Yet, despite this optimism among healthcare professionals (HCPs), patients remain significantly more skeptical—especially those over 45.
According to the report, 63% of clinicians believe AI could improve patient outcomes, while fewer than half of patients share that view. Among patients 45 and older, confidence in AI’s role drops further, with only 33% believing it will positively impact healthcare.
This 10th edition of the Future Health Index, commissioned by Philips, comes at a time when both patients and providers are feeling increasing pressure. Nearly one in four clinicians surveyed said they would not choose a career in healthcare if given the chance to start over. Long specialist wait times—averaging nearly two months—are also contributing to patient frustration and anxiety, raising concerns about delayed care and outcomes.
Despite these challenges, clinicians see AI as a key to alleviating stress and improving efficiency. Sixty-two percent cited AI’s potential to shorten procedures and reduce wait times, while 85% said it could help cut down on administrative workload. Seventy-four percent believe AI could enhance patient access by increasing capacity and enabling more face-to-face time with providers.
“AI is reshaping healthcare – but its future depends on trust, transparency and collaboration with clinicians and patients,” said Jeff DiLullo, Chief Region Leader at Philips North America. “Together, we can unlock AI’s potential to reduce provider burnout and elevate patient care.”
The report underscores that while AI holds promise for transforming U.S. healthcare, building public trust will be essential to realizing its full potential.
