AI and the Provider-Patient Relationship

A positive relationship between healthcare providers and patients is crucial to effective and high-quality healthcare in rural areas. AI must strengthen, not undermine, that relationship. When considering AI tools, rural healthcare organizations should assess how these technologies may affect provider-patient interactions.

According to rural healthcare organization leaders, any AI tool that compromises the provider-patient relationship (which includes trust, communication, and patient connection) is not worth the investment.

Specifically, rural healthcare leaders are using AI to strengthen the patient-provider relationship and enhance communication and trust. Examples of ways AI-enabled tools can strengthen the provider-patient relationship include:

• Reducing time spent on screens and data entry, allowing healthcare providers to focus more fully on patients during office visits
• Helping explain complex medical information in clearer language, improving patient understanding and compliance
• Supporting shared decision-making by making it easier for providers and patients to review information together

Rural healthcare organizations that keep the provider-patient relationships at the center of decisions regarding AI implementation can ensure that the technology aligns with rural values and realities.