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Philips’ Future Health Index 2026 report finds artificial intelligence (AI) is already helping UK healthcare professionals save time, increase patient capacity and support clinical decision-making, but highlights ongoing challenges around training, governance and workplace readiness.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is already changing how healthcare professionals work across the UK, helping clinicians save time, expand capacity and support decision-making, according to the Philips Future Health Index 2026 report.
The findings show that healthcare professionals are seeing measurable benefits from AI-enabled tools, while also highlighting gaps in training and organisational readiness as adoption accelerates.
AI Supports Clinical Efficiency and Patient Care
The Future Health Index 2026, described by Philips as the largest global survey of its kind, draws on perspectives from healthcare professionals and patients across the UK and internationally.
The report found that 42 per cent of UK clinicians using AI-enabled tools say the technology saves them at least 132 hours per year on average, equivalent to more than three full working weeks.
More than a third (36 per cent) of clinicians also said AI is helping them see more patients, with respondents reporting an average increase of seven additional patients per week.
The findings suggest that time saved through AI is being redirected towards patient care, with 52 per cent of clinicians reporting that AI enables more detailed interactions with patients.
AI Adoption Improves Decision-Making and Work-Life Balance
According to the report, AI is also supporting clinicians in their day-to-day roles, with 57 per cent reporting greater confidence in clinical decision-making.
Nearly half (45 per cent) of respondents said AI has improved their work-life balance, indicating that the technology is contributing to changes in how healthcare professionals manage workloads.
Mark Leftwich, Managing Director, Philips UK & Ireland, said:
“These findings come at a critical moment for the NHS. Healthcare teams are facing rising demand, persistent workforce shortages and pressure to reduce waiting lists, while also adapting to one of the most significant technological shifts in decades.”
“What stands out is the pace of change. Clinicians are already using AI to save time, support decision-making and create more capacity for patient care. Healthcare systems are now having to evolve around that reality.”
“AI is not a replacement for clinicians, but it can help give valuable time back to healthcare teams. The challenge now is making sure these benefits can be scaled safely and consistently across the health system. Clinicians are already changing how they work with AI. Healthcare organisations need the infrastructure, training and governance to help turn that momentum into lasting improvements in patient care.”
Mark Leftwich Managing Director, Philips UK & Ireland
Healthcare AI Training Gaps Remain
While AI adoption is increasing, the report highlights challenges around workforce preparation and access to suitable tools.
Nearly three-quarters (74 per cent) of clinicians said AI training within their organisation is inadequate, inconsistent or unavailable.
More than half (56 per cent) reported using personal AI tools when workplace solutions do not meet their needs, suggesting that healthcare organisations face challenges in providing the infrastructure and support required for safe and consistent adoption.
Building Readiness for the Next Phase of AI in Healthcare
The report suggests the future success of AI adoption will depend not only on access to technology, but also on how effectively healthcare organisations support workforce readiness, strengthen governance and integrate AI safely into clinical practice.
Dr. Qaiser Malik, Clinical Director of Radiology at MSE NHS Trust, said, “This is an important piece of work that highlights how AI is beginning to shape the future of healthcare. We need more evidence like this to help the medical community harness technology and navigate an increasingly challenging healthcare landscape.”
“There also needs to be more work around regulation and real-world applications of AI, rather than esoteric solutions that do not make a meaningful difference in practice.”
Philips said the findings demonstrate that clinicians are already adapting to AI-enabled ways of working, while healthcare systems now need to develop the capabilities required to scale these technologies safely and effectively.
About the Future Health Index 2026
The Future Health Index is the largest global survey of its kind, analysing the perspectives of healthcare professionals and patients across multiple countries.
Based on proprietary quantitative research involving over 2,000 healthcare professionals and more than 20,000 patients across 10 countries, the 2026 edition examines how AI is actively being used across healthcare systems and the value it creates in time regained, expanded capacity, and improvements in care delivery.
This article was produced by the editorial team at EME Outlook and published as part of the Outlook Publishing global network of B2B industry magazines.
Outlook Publishing delivers industry insights, company stories, and sector coverage across manufacturing, mining, construction, healthcare, supply chains, food production, and sustainability.
EME Outlook provides ongoing coverage of organisations and developments shaping industries across Europe and the Middle East.
