A study conducted by RAND Corp., a nonprofit global policy think tank, found that the rise in telehealth use throughout the COVID-19 pandemic was driven more by those looking for mental health services than those seeking care for physical health conditions.
Artificial intelligence can potentially increase access to mental health services by eliminating barriers to treatment, such as lack of convenience, accessibility or privacy.
AI has also been used to triage patients, broaden access and availability of mental health services, and gather insights from data collected. This technology is already being used by global mental health providers.
Integrating AI and machine learning can also indirectly affect the mental health industry by reducing burnout throughout the healthcare front lines by automating workflows and enabling faster and less expensive care through analyzing large datasets.
Technology can be used to create easier communication, increase productivity and keep care teams connected regardless of location.
According to Jenn Roth, Microsoft’s global industry product marketing director, technological advancements in healthcare will “be designed to create better experiences, insights, and care for all.”