Trust essential to scale up AI use, says Sesha
A report by Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) says a growing majority of healthcare professionals view artificial intelligence (AI) as a vital tool in the delivery of better patient care as India faces rising healthcare demand and persistent workforce shortages.
The findings in Philips’10th annual Future Health Index (FHI) 2025 report concluded that 76% of Indian healthcare professionals (HCPs) are optimistic that AI can help improve patient outcomes – a clear sign of the increasing trust in digital transformation as a driver of quality healthcare.
This year, the Future Health Index, one of the world’s largest recurring healthcare research initiatives, captures insights from over 1,900 healthcare professionals and 16,000 patients across 16 countries, said the report released on 18 July http://who.int.
The India report draws insights from healthcare professionals across public and private sectors. The data highlights how AI is increasingly being perceived not merely as a tool for efficiency, but also to expand access, improve clinical quality, and reduce professional fatigue.
Commenting on the report on India findings, Bharath Sesha, Managing Director, Philips Indian Subcontinent, said, “India stands at a pivotal moment in healthcare transformation. What we’re seeing today is a growing trust in AI not just as a tool for efficiency but as a catalyst for better clinical outcomes, broader access, and more empowered healthcare professionals http://main.mohfw.gov.in.
“The findings from this year’s Future Health Index India report reaffirm what we’ve long believed – that technology, when applied with purpose, can bridge the gap between capability and capacity. It is encouraging to see patients’ readiness to embrace this transformation, and belief from over 80% Indian Healthcare professionals that AI could save lives by enabling early interventions. This trust is essential to scale up the use of AI and other relevant technology interventions to provide better care for more people.”
Key findings from FHI 2025 India report:
Empowering the Healthcare Workforce
With 75% of respondents saying AI-supported training is helpful for less experienced staff, especially in underserved areas, the opportunity to build a future-ready workforce is clear. Indian healthcare professionals view AI as a catalyst for clinical learning, skill-building, and co-developing solutions tailored to real-world healthcare challenges https://sbi.com.in/.
• 78% believe AI can ensure greater consistency in patient examinations, which could help address the issue of standardising care https://www.bseindia.com/.
• 87% believe AI can improve access to clinical research
• 72% say AI can enable accurate and timely interventions
While over half (56%) of HCPS in India are already contributing to AI development within their organizations, only four in ten feel these tools align with their day-to-day clinical needs, underscoring the need for more inclusive, hands-on collaboration in shaping technology that delivers meaningful impact https://www.nseindia.com/.
Optimising Care Every Step of the Way
From triage to time-saving automation,76% of Indian healthcare professionals believe AI can direct patients to the appropriate care setting, enhancing access while enhancing limited healthcare resources.
• 78% believe AI can help reduce patients’ wait times
• 60% say it can increase face-to-face time with patients
• 80% see AI as a way to automate repetitive tasks, which will help reduce administrative burden
• 65% believe AI can shorten procedure times
Caution meets optimism: Addressing key limitations
While the outlook is optimistic, several critical gaps must be bridged to realise the full potential of AI in Indian healthcare:
• 45% of HCPs want clear guidelines on AI usage and its limitations.
• 44% seek greater clarity on legal liability when using AI in patient care.
• 31% are looking for reassurance about data security.
• In addition, 67% express concern that data bias in AI tools could widen healthcare disparities.
As the nation advances on its digital health journey, with the right partnerships and policies in place, India is well-positioned to lead the way in demonstrating how technology and trust can together shape a healthier, more equitable future. fiinews.com
