Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept, it’s quickly becoming the foundation for solving healthcare challenges in Indonesia and beyond.

This was the core message from the 10th edition of the Future Health Index (FHI), released by global health technology leader Royal Philips during a press conference in Jakarta.

Philips Launches 10th Future Health Index with a Global Perspective

Since its inception in 2016, the Future Health Index has evolved from focusing on connected care to exploring how digital tools, particularly AI, are reshaping healthcare systems.

The 2025 report gathered insights from over 1,100 stakeholders, patients, healthcare professionals, and industry leaders, across 16 countries, including Indonesia, Australia, and South Korea.

“In this latest edition, we compiled views from more than 1,100 respondents, including patients, healthcare workers, and industry leaders from 16 countries. Indonesia, together with Australia and South Korea, represents the Asia Pacific region,” said Astri Ramayanti Dharmawan, President Director of Philips Indonesia.

The report identifies three global pain points: increasing demand for services, a shortage of healthcare workers, and rising costs that require greater efficiency.

Indonesia’s Healthcare Faces Long Wait Times and Data Gaps

In Indonesia, the FHI revealed that 77% of patients perceive long wait times for specialist appointments, surpassing both the Asia Pacific (66%) and global (73%) averages.

Though the average wait time is 19 days, faster than the global average, the consequences are significant. 51% of patients reported worsened health conditions, and 45% required hospitalization due to delays.

Meanwhile, 62% of healthcare workers said they lose time because patient data is incomplete or inaccessible.

Only 13% felt they could fully concentrate on patient care, while 56% remained burdened by repetitive administrative tasks.

Strong Optimism for AI Adoption Among Indonesian Medical Professionals

Despite the obstacles, Indonesian healthcare professionals express high optimism for AI. According to the report:

• 95% believe AI can enhance data accuracy and improve procedural efficiency.
• 92% think AI can accelerate service delivery.
• 91% say AI can automate administrative duties.
• 85% believe AI could save lives through early detection.
• 73% support remote monitoring technology to reduce wait times.

Concerns Around AI Regulation and Patient Privacy Remain

While enthusiasm is high, challenges remain in regulation, ethics, and trust. More than half of medical professionals (57%) worry that slow AI adoption will increase their workload.

71% cite a lack of clear regulations on AI accountability, and 73% view potential data bias as a major concern.

Patients, too, express mixed feelings. Although 82% welcome technology in healthcare, 56% are concerned about data privacy, and 54% still want direct interaction with doctors.

Yet, a promising 95% of patients said they are comfortable with AI if medical professionals remain involved.

Three Key Recommendations to Drive Responsible AI Adoption

Based on the report, Philips offered three strategic recommendations to ensure successful AI implementation in Indonesian healthcare:

1. Build trust among all stakeholders regarding the benefits of AI.
2. Balance innovation with human touch in service delivery.
3. Foster cross-sector collaboration among government, healthcare providers, professionals, and communities.

The Future Health Index continues to serve as a benchmark in understanding how digital transformation, especially through AI is shaping the healthcare landscape.

PHOTO: FREEPIK

This article was created with AI assistance.