Asia: AI can upgrade medical insurers to become health coaches

On the opening day of the 12th Asia Conference on Healthcare and Health Insurance, delegates were informed of how increasing connectivity and automation has enabled new paradigms in patient care. And given how the healthcare sector is transforming itself as a smart industry, health insurers have both the obligation and opportunity to increase its level of engagement with policyholders – as both a means to manage cost as well as make a difference to well-being of its customers through preventive care. These may include the use of mobile health apps, wearables and tools to establish a strong connection between patients and healthcare partners. Additionally, insurers can engage in health coaching by using digital tools for patient engagement and shared decision making. As patients bring their customer experiences from other sectors into healthcare, there is increased demand for information and self-empowerment.