In a bid to modernize benefits administration and enhance employee experiences, U.S. companies are increasingly adopting artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for healthcare benefits management. A recent survey by Elevate, in collaboration with Datos Insights, reveals that 85% of companies are either using or planning to implement HIPAA-compliant AI features in their consumer-directed healthcare accounts.
- AI Adoption for Enhanced Employee Experience:
- Convenience and Efficiency: Employees have become accustomed to the convenience offered by AI in their personal lives. To match these expectations, 45% of companies are interested in AI-powered chatbots to handle inquiries more effectively. Additionally, 32% are exploring AI for faster claims reviews and personalized coaching.
- Top Desired Enhancements:
- Faster Reimbursements: Employees often face delays with traditional reimbursement processes, leading to frustration. Approximately 38% of companies are seeking solutions that provide same-day reimbursement payments.
- Instant Claims Reviews: Another 37% of respondents want instant claims reviews and on-the-spot determinations to streamline the process and reduce administrative costs.
- AI’s Role in Reducing Costs and Improving Efficiency:
- Cost Containment: With administrative costs for processing claims and servicing plans consuming up to 30% of operational budgets, AI technologies are seen as crucial for reducing these expenses. AI’s potential to automate processes and improve handling of benefits-related tasks can lead to significant cost savings and efficiency gains.
- Brian Cosgray, CEO of Elevate: “The adoption of benefits technology, such as AI, has lagged behind consumer technology. With rising healthcare costs, there is a renewed interest in digital transformation. Nearly 9 out of 10 companies expect to replace existing systems with advanced technologies, where AI can play a significant role in enhancing the benefits experience and containing costs.”
- Gilles Ubagh, Strategic Advisor at Datos Insights: “The survey highlights a clear demand for AI-driven solutions in employee benefits. The research underscores AI’s potential to transform benefits administration, improving both employee experience and operational efficiency.”
The survey by Elevate and Datos Insights underscores a growing trend towards leveraging AI to enhance the management of healthcare benefits. With significant interest in AI-powered solutions for faster claims processing and improved employee support, companies are set to benefit from these advancements in technology.
