Key facts
- Cigna's AI tools are expected to save customers $200 million in medical costs over three years.
- The technology aims to identify patients with chronic or complex conditions.
- AI tools will connect more members with Cigna's employed clinicians, such as nurses.
- The initiative is expected to boost clinical access by 20% for individuals with conditions like cancer and heart or kidney disease.
- Cigna estimates customers using these clinical programs save approximately $2,000 per year.
Health insurer Cigna announced on Thursday that its use of artificial intelligence tools to identify patients with chronic or complex conditions is projected to save customers $200 million in medical expenses over the next three years.
Bryan Holgerson, a president at Cigna Healthcare, stated that the technology is intended to reduce the incidence of more costly health events, particularly as hospitalization and emergency service costs continue to rise. Cigna plans to leverage these AI tools to connect more members with its employed clinicians, such as nurses, to better manage their healthcare needs and provide customized support earlier.
Cigna indicated that these changes will enhance clinical access by 20% for individuals managing conditions like cancer, heart disease, or kidney disease. The company also anticipates that its new technology will aid in the earlier detection of breast, colorectal, and lung cancers. According to company data estimates, customers participating in these clinical programs are expected to save around $2,000 annually in medical costs.
Cigna Group encompasses Cigna Healthcare, its clinical arm Evernorth Health Services, and its pharmacy benefit manager, Express Scripts. This move follows similar initiatives by rivals; UnitedHealth recently reported that its new tools have reduced administrative burdens for its clinicians and increased patient care time, while CVS Health announced plans for an AI assistant to book provider appointments for members.