Healthcare is evolving rapidly, with automation and artificial intelligence (AI) playing a bigger role than ever. But how do patients feel about these changes? Vyne Medical surveyed 1,000 U.S. adults (18+) to better understand consumer perspectives on healthcare access, AI, and digital tools. The findings highlight what patients value, what concerns them, and how technology can shape their experience moving forward.

Prior Authorization Delays: A Major Frustration for Consumers

Anyone who’s had to wait on prior authorization for a medical procedure knows how frustrating the process can be. According to the survey, 29% of consumers have experienced delays in scheduling due to prior authorization requirements. Younger generations—Millennials (34%) and Gen Z (37%)—are the most affected, while only 13% of Baby Boomers report the same issue.

These delays don’t just slow things down—it impacts patient satisfaction and, in some cases, health outcomes. This highlights the urgent need for automation and AI-driven solutions that can streamline these administrative hurdles and make the process more efficient for both patients and providers.

AI Misconceptions: A Barrier to Adoption

AI has the potential to revolutionize healthcare, but there’s still skepticism. The survey found that 44% of consumers worry AI and automation will reduce personal interaction with providers, with Baby Boomers (55%) being the most concerned. While AI can handle routine tasks, patients still want to feel seen and be heard by their doctors.

Understanding these concerns is critical for healthcare providers as they implement AI technologies. The data reveals that, despite the advantages of AI, patients are wary of losing the personal connection with their providers. To address these concerns, healthcare organizations must integrate AI in a way that supports—rather than replaces—the provider-patient relationship, ensuring patients feel their care is still personalized and human.

Digital Communication: A Growing Preference

One thing is clear: patients expect healthcare to be as convenient as everything else in their digital lives. The survey found that:

• 33% prefer signing healthcare documents via email or text
• 77% would choose healthcare providers that leverage advanced technology to simplify processes

This shift toward digital communication gives providers a chance to boost engagement and efficiency by adopting tools like e-signatures and text-based updates, which can reduce administrative burdens, and enhance patient satisfaction.

Comfort with Technology, Yet Caution with AI

The survey uncovered an interesting paradox. While 77% of consumers favor tech-enabled healthcare, only 21% are very comfortable with AI automating routine tasks. Many remain on the fence, with 43% feeling “somewhat comfortable” and 36% expressing varying degrees of discomfort. This signals that while patients want convenience, they need clear communication and reassurance about how AI fits into their care. The key? Implementing AI gradually, with a strong emphasis on security, transparency, and maintaining a human connection.

The Future of AI in Healthcare: Finding the Right Balance

The findings highlight a clear challenge: patients want innovation, but they’re wary of AI’s role in their care. To move forward, healthcare providers must integrate new technologies in a way that enhances efficiency without sacrificing the personal touch that patients value. Addressing concerns, ensuring strong data security, and maintaining transparency will be key to building trust.

Vyne Medical is at the forefront of this shift, offering solutions that streamline administrative processes while keeping patient experience a top priority. By integrating advanced technologies like AI-driven workflows and seamless digital solutions, Vyne Medical is empowering healthcare providers to enhance efficiency while ensuring that patient needs remain central. As healthcare continues to evolve, staying attuned to patient sentiment and leveraging technology to create more personalized and accessible care will be crucial in improving overall patient satisfaction and outcomes. Vyne Medical’s commitment to this dual focus sets the stage for a future where operational excellence and patient care go hand in hand.

The bottom line? AI and automation should support the human side of healthcare, not replace it. Thoughtful implementation, clear communication, and a focus on security will help providers innovate while keeping patient trust intact.

© 2025 Napa EA/MEDX, LLC. All rights reserved. Data and statistical results derived from a December 2024 survey conducted of 1000 random healthcare consumers in the U.S. The data provided is for informational purposes only.