By Holly Miller

There’s no denying the healthcare industry is experiencing a significant transformation. The way in which patients receive care has changed. The nursing shortage has been top-of-mind for many healthcare leaders. And technology is poised to transform the entire field of medicine.

Looking ahead, we will see a dramatic shift in the industry, particularly because of evolving artificial — or augmented—intelligence (AI) technology. Here are five ways healthcare will change in 2024.

1. Regulations will slow AI technology and innovation in healthcare
Most healthcare leaders are interested in the power of AI technology. Still, many are concerned about its implications for patient privacy, security, compliance, and the ethical practice of medicine. While the healthcare sector has historically been slower than other industries in embracing AI, we are witnessing a rapid acceleration of organizations adopting AI despite many unknowns.

Expect to see regulations start to go into effect in the coming years to govern AI access in various industries, including healthcare. These impending regulations will redirect innovation and focus toward ethical AI.

AI-enabled technology must be an extension of human interaction, not a replacement for one-on-one care. AI will allow providers to be more efficient and effective, enabling clinicians to provide better bedside care while practicing at the top of their license, ultimately improving patient outcomes. In addition, it alleviates burnout by restoring balance to a clinician’s workday and improving retention.

While AI still has a long way to go, the technology is evolving rapidly, and it’s poised to change the way providers offer patient care in the coming year.

2. The new way to train the next generation of nurses
Nursing shortages will remain a major pain point for healthcare providers, but technology will help alleviate the burden on clinicians.

Part of the ever-widening gap between nurse supply and demand rests on the fact that patients are entering the health system at a higher acuity with more chronic conditions (a lingering effect of delayed care stemming from the pandemic). At the same time, higher nurse-to-patient ratios have led many veteran nurses to retire or pursue other career opportunities, making the shortage even worse. While new nurses are entering the field, they are inexperienced and have access to fewer experienced nurses who can provide mentorship and training, which can affect patient care and lead to burnout.

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