Artificial intelligence is already delivering measurable benefits for healthcare professionals, saving clinicians the equivalent of more than 16 working days a year and enabling them to treat more patients. However, healthcare systems risk missing out on AI's full potential due to inadequate training and fragmented digital infrastructure, according to the latest Future Health Index 2026 report from Philips.

The 11th edition of the global report draws on insights from more than 2,000 healthcare professionals and 20,000 patients across 10 countries, highlighting how AI is increasingly transforming care delivery and clinical workflows.

The findings reveal that nearly two-thirds (65 per cent) of clinicians have increased their use of AI tools provided by their workplaces, with many reporting significant improvements in efficiency and productivity.

According to the report, close to half (46 per cent) of clinicians said AI saves them at least 132 hours annually on average, equivalent to more than three full working weeks. In addition, 50 per cent reported having greater capacity to see patients, enabling them to care for an average of eight additional patients each week.

Philips noted that the time saved through AI is being redirected towards higher-value clinical activities, including patient engagement, clinical decision-making, and care coordination. This shift is helping healthcare organisations move towards a more hybrid care model in which AI acts as an extension of the clinical team rather than a replacement for healthcare professionals.

"What is really encouraging is that AI is already making a tangible difference in everyday clinical practice, for clinicians and patients alike," said Shez Partovi, Chief Innovation Officer at Philips.

"We are seeing people save meaningful time, care for more patients, and feel better at work. At its heart, AI is there to support healthcare professionals, giving them more room to focus on what matters most: clinical decision-making and patient care," Partovi added.

Despite these gains, the report highlights ongoing barriers to widespread AI adoption. Many healthcare systems remain in the early stages of their AI journey and continue to face challenges related to workforce training, technology integration, and digital infrastructure.

Philips cautioned that without greater investment in education, interoperability, and AI-ready systems, healthcare organisations may struggle to scale AI solutions effectively and realise their full value.

As healthcare providers worldwide grapple with workforce shortages, rising patient demand, and increasing administrative burdens, the report suggests that AI could play a critical role in improving efficiency and supporting more sustainable models of care. However, achieving these benefits at scale will require healthcare leaders to address foundational gaps in skills and infrastructure.

The findings underscore a growing consensus within the healthcare industry that AI is evolving from an emerging technology into a practical clinical tool, capable of enhancing productivity, improving patient access, and supporting better healthcare outcomes.