Exploring the Benefits of AI Implementation in Transforming Clinical and Business Operations

AI is transforming clinical business operations. Businesses across all industries are implementing artificial intelligence (AI) technology to help automate processes, analyze data, improve customer experiences, and make better decisions. Clinical businesses are no different, with AI-powered solutions helping healthcare organizations enhance work efficiency and patient care. AI can help organizations spend more time with patients and better understand patient-related data. Here are some ways AI can help you transform and optimize business operations this year and beyond to find solutions that fit your needs. 

AI Trends in Clinical Settings

According to research, electronic health records (EHRs) are one of the most beneficial areas for physicians to implement AI. Many experts agree that AI can help support EHR systems by reducing documentation and administrative burdens while improving patient care and outcomes. These benefits, among others, are why AI technology is growing in popularity throughout the healthcare industry. Most physicians and healthcare managers welcome AI. 

In an AMA survey, nearly two-thirds of physicians saw the advantages of AI; however, as of August 2023, only 38% were using it. Based on this survey, respondents felt that AI would be most helpful for transforming clinical business operations in relation to:

• Diagnostic ability (72%)

• Work efficiency (69%)

• Clinical outcomes (61%)

• Documentation of billing codes and visit notes (54%)

• Automating insurance-related processes (48%)

A more recent survey by McKinsey found that as of Q1 2024, over 70% of healthcare organizations, including providers, payers, and healthcare services, were pursuing or had already implemented some form of generative AI. A closer look shows that just 29% were already using generative AI (a 4% increase from Q4 2024), and 43% were pursuing proofs of concept. Only 2% of respondents had no AI-related plans. As a CIO, CTO, or CFO, this must be recognized as an opportunity to carve out a competitive edge.

The Benefits of AI for Transforming Clinical Business Operations

Business leaders implement AI to achieve many competitive advantages, regardless of industry. For example, AI can help organizations achieve the following, which can be applied to a clinical setting: 

• Automate repetitive tasks 

• Streamline workflows

• Provide data-driven insights 

• Offer predictive analytics for better decision-making 

• Help reduce costs 

• Improve customer or patient experiences 

• Encourage innovation to optimize business operations

Here are just some of the ways AI is helping practices improve day-to-day operations, patient outcomes, business intelligence, and overall success, including some of the tools, solutions, and services currently available. 

Streamlining Admin Tasks

Physicians and their healthcare teams spend significant time on administrative tasks. These providers face an exhausting time burden that is contributing to burnout. Data shows that at least two-thirds of physician work is non-patient-facing in the United States. Examples of where AI in business operations can help improve this concern:

• Note-taking and summation 

• Reducing errors and adding details to medical records 

• Coding and revenue cycle management

• Automating patient orders

Available tools and services:

• NextGen EHR Operations BI Dashboard

• NextGen EHR, EPM, and revenue cycle consulting 

• Ambient Assist: A SOAP notes tool

Predictive Analysis and Personalized Care

Access to data is one thing, but extracting insights from that data easily is another. AI is helping physicians optimize the data they collect to make better business decisions and reduce errors. Using AI-powered tools, healthcare managers and physicians can leverage clinical and operational metrics from a centralized dashboard. This approach allows for greater data visualization and can encourage more personalized treatments. For example, machine learning models can analyze the historical data of high-risk patients and help predict medication outcomes.

Available tools and services:

• NextGen Order Management BI Dashboard

Implementing Virtual Assistants 

Generative AI is helping healthcare leaders by providing virtual assistants and chatbot options. The technology involved, which uses data to create new outputs, can help with scheduling, visit summaries, diagnostics, and the claims process. The goal is to relieve pressure on practice staff so they can focus on patients and more complex tasks. This AI-powered tech can provide patients a more personalized care experience without additional time with the care team. 

Are There Barriers to AI Adoption?

The benefits of AI within clinical business settings are immense and cost-efficient. So why is AI adoption relatively slow? While each practice is unique, some of the primary concerns surrounding AI are skill gaps, data privacy concerns, and compliance issues. These hurdles can be addressed by investing in expert partnerships, training, and security compliance.

How TempDev Can Help with AI and Transforming Business Operations

Whether your goal is to optimize revenue cycle management, provide more personalized care, prevent burnout, or all of the above, AI can help you and your practice automate everyday tasks and reduce errors. While there are still potential hurdles to navigate, expert partners are helping practices and healthcare organizations make the most of the technology available. 

As the industry's premier healthcare consultancy, TempDev's expert consultants, developers, and trainers can help your practice maximize your organization's capabilities. From workflow design to automation and integration with health IT systems, TempDev offers the products and support you need to make the most of your NextGen EHR and practice management tools. If you have questions about the next evolution of ambulatory care and the roles that AI may play, contact us or call us at 888.TEMP.DEV.