Royal Philips launched its highly anticipated Future Health Index 2024 report, titled “Better Care for More People.” Unveiled at HLTH Europe, followed by a panel discussion with Shez Partovi, Chief Innovation & Strategy Officer of Royal Philips, cardiologist Chiara Bucciarelli-Ducci and surgeon Marlies Schijven, this groundbreaking report highlights the pivotal role of technological innovation in overcoming healthcare’s most pressing challenges. From automation and virtual care to AI, these cutting-edge solutions are spearheading efforts to bridge gaps in staffing, data overload and sustainability. In the face of surging demands, and financial pressures, the growing implementation of technology is setting the stage for a transformative future in healthcare.

• The comprehensive global survey of healthcare leaders’ priorities, which includes insights from almost 3,000 across 14 countries, paints a stark picture of the severe staff shortages straining healthcare professionals (HCPs) and hindering timely patient care. Nearly two-thirds of healthcare leaders report a significant rise in staff burnout, stress, and mental health issues. For patients, this translates to longer appointment waiting lists (60%), extended treatment or procedure wait times (57%), and delays in accessing screenings, diagnoses, and preventive care (54%).

• To address these shortages, an overwhelming 92% of healthcare leaders view automation as a critical tool for managing repetitive tasks, with 41% planning to expand automation to include workflow prioritization. However, successfully integrating automation into daily operations requires addressing HCPs’ concerns about potential skill and knowledge loss. Engaging HCPs during the implementation phase is crucial for ensuring successful adoption and integration.

• Another critical theme highlighted in the report is bridging the data gap, with 94% of organizations facing challenges in data integration. Leaders recognize the positive impact of data-driven insights in optimizing treatment plans and care pathways (43%), adopting evidence-based practices (37%), and reducing waiting times for diagnostic and elective procedures (36%). Consequently, leaders are increasingly implementing AI across various applications, including clinical decision support, in-hospital patient monitoring, medication management, treatment planning, radiology, and preventive care. Notably, there is growing attention towards generative AI, with an immense 85% of healthcare leaders already investing (29%) or planning to invest (56%) in GenAI within the next three years.

• Investments in virtual care and remote patient monitoring are driving innovations in care delivery models and addressing staffing challenges. Leaders report significant benefits from virtual care, such as easing staff shortages (89%) and enhancing staff satisfaction. The sustained adoption of virtual care underscores the shift towards expanding care beyond traditional hospital settings.

However, financial constraints pose a significant hurdle; 81% of leaders note that financial challenges directly impact patients, with 59% citing the inability to invest in new medical equipment or technologies. Despite these challenges, 89% of healthcare leaders plan to expand services, indicating a commitment to overcoming financial barriers and ensuring equitable healthcare access.

Read the full report here