Payers focus on artificial intelligence and machine learning

COVID-19 has led to an increase in payer adoption of technology and innovation, according to Shreesh Tiwari, principal at ZS, speaking during the HIMSS State of Healthcare event. Sixty-four percent of health insurance executives report an accelerated adoption of digital health initiatives such as virtual health. Another 53% report an acceleration in adoption of artificial intelligence and machine learning practices, while 42% said COVID-19 has helped facilitate the adoption of value-based care arrangements, according to State of Healthcare research by HIMSS, the parent company of Healthcare Finance News. COVID-19 has helped to drive changes not just in technology, but in attitude, Tiwari said. The mental and cultural barriers in terms of adoption are no longer being seen as issues. Around half of payers have an innovation lab and believe AI and machine learning will drive innovation forward.