In recent years, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the health and social care sector has become a critical component of strategic planning and service delivery. As demand for services rises due to ageing populations, chronic illness prevalence, and workforce shortages, organisations are increasingly turning to AI to unlock efficiency, enhance outcomes, and deliver greater value for patients and care recipients. The methods of efficiency introducing AI within the health and social care sector are discussed below. 

How is AI being used?

In the NHS and other health systems globally, AI is being used to analyse diagnostic imaging, predict patient deterioration, triage emergency calls, and flag high-risk individuals in primary care settings. These capabilities improve accuracy, reduce unnecessary interventions, and allow for earlier, more targeted treatment, directly impacting patient outcomes and resource allocation.

One of the most pressing challenges in health and social care is workforce capacity. Administrative burdens, documentation requirements, and data entry consume a significant portion of providers’ time. AI automation tools can handle routine tasks such as appointment scheduling, claims processing, and electronic record updates, allowing professionals to focus on high-value, person-centred care.

AI can analyse historical data, seasonal trends, and real-time factors to predict staffing needs. This helps in anticipating and addressing potential staffing shortages before they become critical issues. When staff members call in sick, AI can instantly notify available team members who can fill the shift. This reduces the time and effort spent on finding replacements and ensures that care is not disrupted. By optimising staff schedules and reducing reliance on expensive agency staff, AI can help lower operational costs. This also contributes to higher staff retention and satisfaction.

In social care, AI tools are helping predict care needs and coordinate support services more effectively. For example, predictive algorithms can forecast when an individual is likely to require more intensive support, enabling early interventions and reduce hospital admissions. There is also the encouragement from the Care Quality Commission for the social care sector to move towards electronic record keeping, with AI tools enabling more accurate record keeping. 

Other areas of efficiency

1. Automatic bank feeds and invoicing

AI-driven systems can automate financial processes such as bank feeds and invoicing. Suppliers can upload invoices directly to financial systems, which then classifies and sends them to the appropriate individual for approval. This reduces manual errors and speeds up the approval procedures, ensuring timely payments and accurate financial records.

2. Third-party apps for accounting functions

AI-powered third-party applications are streamlining accounting functions. These apps can automate tasks such as bookkeeping, expense tracking, and financial reporting, freeing up healthcare professionals to focus on patient care rather than administrative duties.

3. AI note takers in meetings

AI note takers can record key discussions and action points from meetings, ensuring that important information is accurately captured and easily accessible. This helps in maintaining clear communication and follow-up on critical issues. 

4. Tailoring applications

AI platforms like REPLIT can assist in writing applications and developing websites, reducing the need for extensive costs associated with development and maintenance. This allows operators to deploy digital solutions quickly and cost-effectively.

Alongside financial value, where AI reduces the need for staff intervention, it’s usage is also increasing autonomy and independence for people supported. When we take the example of using AI to create a meal plan, that tool isn’t just available to support staff – but can also be used by the people receiving care and support, who can then make more informed choices for themselves in the privacy of their own home. 

In summary, AI is enhancing the efficiency of the healthcare sector by automating administrative tasks, optimising resource allocation, improving communication, and enabling data-driven decision-making. These advancements are not only improving operational efficiency but also enhancing the quality of patient care.

For further information

Whilst the appetite for AI increases, its adoption must also be factored in with ensuring transparency, data security, along with public trust. Anthony Collins have developed an AI usage policy specifically for care providers. If you would like further information, please contact Laura Jordan.

This article was co-authored by Laura Jordan (Anthony Collins) Abbey Jones (Anthony Collins) and Stephanie Hayman (Hazlewoods).