Half of U.S. healthcare organizations have implemented generative AI, according to an April 16 survey from McKinsey & Co.
The report is based on McKinsey’s survey of U.S. healthcare leaders conducted in the fourth quarter of 2025. It examines generative AI adoption, use cases and organizational readiness. The survey includes respondents across subsectors, including care delivery organizations, payers and healthcare services and technology firms.
Here are seven key findings from the survey:
- More than 80% of surveyed leaders said their organizations have deployed at least one generative AI use case to end users. All respondents reported plans to pursue the technology, reflecting growing confidence and reduced hesitation around adoption.
- Adoption has steadily increased over time. In late 2023, 25% of organizations reported implementing generative AI, rising to 47% in 2024 and reaching 50% by the end of 2025.
- As adoption grows, healthcare organizations are shifting their focus toward scaling and integration. Leaders cited operational challenges, including integrating AI into existing systems and a lack of internal capabilities, as major barriers, along with ongoing concerns about risks such as inaccuracies or bias, security and regulatory compliance.
- The survey identified administrative efficiency as the area with the greatest potential for generative AI, though clinical productivity is among the most widely implemented use cases. More than half of respondents from care organizations reported implementing the technology for clinical productivity.
- Interest is also growing in “agentic AI,” which refers to systems capable of taking action and coordinating complex workflows. While 19% of organizations report implementing these capabilities, 51% said they are pursuing proofs of concept.
- Despite challenges, most healthcare leaders expect financial returns from their AI investments. The survey found 82% anticipate a positive return on investment, with 45% reporting quantified returns, typically ranging from less than two times to four times their initial investment.
- Organizations are pursuing a mix of strategies to build AI capabilities. Partnering with third-party vendors remains the most common approach, though some, particularly health services and technology firms, are more likely to build in-house solutions, while others are considering off-the-shelf tools.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.
