Agentic AI is emerging as a major trend in healthcare, with autonomous, task-specific AI agents being integrated into administrative and, potentially, clinical workflows. Initially adopted for back-end operations like scheduling, prior authorizations, and call center automation, these AI systems are designed to reduce inefficiencies and improve patient experiences. Companies like Suki, Notable, and VoiceCare AI are leading this movement by deploying AI assistants that handle tasks ranging from physician note-taking to revenue cycle management. While current implementations focus on administrative support, industry experts anticipate that AI agents will eventually assist in clinical decision-making, provided they meet stringent safety and reliability standards. Organizations like Mayo Clinic and The Ottawa Hospital are already piloting AI-driven solutions to optimize workflows and alleviate workforce shortages.
A notable player in this space is Hippocratic AI, which has developed AI agents for disaster relief and patient outreach, gaining significant funding but also facing scrutiny over the extent of human oversight required for its technology. Despite criticisms, the company, founded by Munjal Shah, has secured $278 million in funding since 2023. Shah declined to be interviewed for the article, leaving questions about the scalability and autonomy of Hippocratic AI’s solutions. Nvidia’s healthcare AI vice president, Kimberly Powell, highlighted the potential of agentic AI in expanding access to care and improving efficiency, while Innovaccer CEO Abhinav Shashank emphasized its role in scaling value-based care. As AI agents continue to evolve, industry leaders believe their success will hinge on seamless integration into clinical workflows, rigorous validation, and clear ethical guidelines.