The promise of artificial intelligence for human services agencies
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly expanding, and it has enormous potential for nearly every aspect of life — from business to health care to human services. However, our perceptions of AI are still somewhat colored by science fiction, and we have yet to fully understand both the opportunities and the risks. That’s why it’s critical for human services and health professionals to develop a vision for how AI and machine learning can help them provide care.
The market for AI is expected to grow to $191 billion by 2024. Part of that growth is technology for human services agencies, including technology that allows the aging population and/or people with disabilities to remain independent for as long as possible.
More human services agencies are evolving their care delivery and service coordination practices to provide technology when people need it, complemented by person-to-person support. AI can empower:
- Consumers to care for themselves longer
- Agencies to use data to develop customized care plans for better coordinated care
- Payers to identify at-risk individuals to delay or prevent adverse events.
Professionals are already exploring how sensors, wearables, and even Amazon Alexa technology, can be used in people’s homes, retirement communities, and even nursing homes to improve quality of life and reduce staff demands.
One of the most compelling uses of AI is a companion robot to assist people who are at risk of developing or in the early stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia, to support recall, and even provide reminders to take medications.
Innovations for human services and health care technology systems will profoundly impact the consumer market. When care is powered by intelligent technology, human service agencies can customize care to each consumer, decrease costs, and improve outcomes.
To learn even more about the exciting potential of AI for human services agencies, read our new white paper, Artificial Intelligence for Human Services.