Text for questions 12 to 15.

Just a few years ago, we spoke of Artificial Intelligence’s (AI’s) promise; today, it has become a tangible reality. In addressing the complexities of global healthcare challenges, AI is emerging not just as a tool but as a transformative force reshaping healthcare delivery.

The advancements in AI technology present unprecedented opportunities to revolutionise healthcare, making it more effective, accessible, and economically sustainable. By fostering the integration of AI through appropriate policies, we can enhance equity, improve care, and ensure that new technologies, treatments, and medicines benefit society at large.

AI can facilitate the efficient allocation of healthcare resources. Predictive modelling can forecast patient admissions and optimise the use of hospital beds, staff, and equipment. This ensures resources are available where and when needed most, reducing waste and enhancing the quality of care.

AI also has the potential to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in healthcare, such as rising costs, inefficiencies, and the demand for higher-quality care. It can reduce costs and streamline administrative tasks like patient scheduling, billing, and electronic health records management by automating and optimising operations. This can free healthcare professionals to focus more on patient care.

In diagnostics, AI enhances accuracy and enables earlier detection, often leading to less invasive and more cost-effective treatment options.

In general, AI is transforming the pharmaceutical sector across the entire lifecycle of medicines, from medicinal product discovery and development to pharmacokinetics, evaluation, manufacturing, marketing, approval, and pharmacovigilance.

In medicines discovery, AI accelerates the process by identifying targets and optimising the design of medicinal products. During development, AI enhances formulations and facilitates personalised medicines. In pharmacokinetics, AI-driven predictions help determine optimal dosing, while in clinical trials, AI assists with patient stratification, digital twins, and trial simulations.

As we integrate AI into healthcare, we must remain focused on the overarching goal: leveraging this transformative technology to deliver equitable, high-quality care to all. With the right policies and innovations, AI has the potential to drive a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone.

Internet: <health.ec.europa.eu> (adapted).