Social Determinants and Health Equity Activities: Are They Connected with the Adaptation of AI and Telehealth Services in the U.S. Hospitals?

TL;DR

This study explores how hospitals' efforts to address social determinants and health equity relate to their adoption of AI and telehealth services in the U.S.

Contribution

The study reveals a novel connection between health equity activities and the adoption of advanced healthcare technologies.

Findings

Community social determinant activities are positively linked to AI and telehealth adoption.

Health equity initiatives significantly influence the integration of advanced healthcare technologies.

Organizational factors remain key drivers in technology adoption alongside equity efforts.

Abstract

In recent decades, technological shifts within the healthcare sector have significantly transformed healthcare management and utilization, introducing unprecedented possibilities that elevate quality of life. Organizational factors are recognized as key drivers in technology adoption, but involvement of hospitals in community-oriented activities and promotion of health equity are underexplored. This study investigated the impact of community social determinant activities and health equity activities on the adoption of AI and telehealth services within U.S. hospitals. The data were collected from the 2021 American Hospital Association (AHA) annual survey and were analyzed using multiple logistic and linear regression models to examine activities related to addressing population health, particularly social determinants and health equity, and their impacts on the adoption of AI and telehealth among U.S. hospitals. The results indicate a significant positive association between the community social determinant indicator and health equity indicator in adopting AI and telehealth services. Organizational factors were also major drivers of AI and telehealth adoption. The active incorporation of hospital strategies that address social determinants and promote health equity leads to the integration of advanced technologies and improves hospital conditions, enabling more adaptability to the changing healthcare landscape, which enhances healthcare services and accessibility.