Aflac President: why AI shouldn’t drive your healthcare

Every fall, cancer becomes a more prominent topic in the national conversation. Awareness campaigns, survivor stories, and reminders to get checked abound during this time. This year, however, the conversation on cancer is occurring alongside another major change: a growing number of Americans are relying on artificial intelligence (AI) for health information.

According to a recent study, 76% of Gen Z adults and 63% of millennials now turn to AI as their first point of contact for healthcare concerns, even before consulting with a doctor. AI can quickly search for symptoms, explain medical jargon, and provide insights into potential risks. While AI can be a valuable resource, it is essential to recognize that knowing more information does not equate to knowing what actions to take next.

In the realm of cancer care, consistent physician care is crucial for accurately identifying signs of serious conditions that may not be immediately apparent. AI should serve as a copilot, assisting but not dictating healthcare decisions. As president of Aflac Incorporated, I have been involved in leadership roles for over two decades and have learned that reckless action without proper guidance can lead to inaction.

Despite numerous awareness campaigns over the years, nearly two-thirds of Americans still postpone recommended health screenings. This trend is not due to a lack of understanding that screenings are important; instead, life's busy nature and fear of potential results or the belief that one feels fine prevent people from seeking medical attention.

AI can help address some of these barriers, providing clarity on screening options or preparing individuals for doctor's appointments. However, AI has limitations. It cannot accompany someone to an appointment, perform medical examinations like mammograms or colonoscopies, or personally review an individual's health history to identify possible conditions.

Moreover, AI cannot replace the support and guidance of someone you trust who will ask, "Did you get that checked?" According to separate research on cancer-screening behavior, most Americans view encouraging a loved one to get screened as an act of love, and such encouragement can positively influence their own behavior as well.

This underscores the fact that the most impactful health intervention tool is often personal connection and care from those who know and support us. Personally, I have witnessed the impact of cancer through my own family and have seen loved ones and friends struggle through diagnoses, treatments, and the uncertainties that accompany these experiences.

These personal insights are why I will continue advocating for moving people from uncertainty to action. As a company, Aflac's business model is built on the premise that a missed screening, a late diagnosis, and the resulting financial burden on a family necessitate assistance beyond what health insurance can provide. The ongoing AI conversation is not merely theoretical for us; it is reflected in our claims data.

Therefore, I encourage individuals to take a proactive role in their health, recognizing that AI should be a supportive tool rather than the primary driver of healthcare decisions.