Innovative Approaches for Scaling AI Enterprise-Wide: Lessons from Emory and UChicago Medicine
Healthcare organizations are at a pivotal juncture, grappling with clinician burnout and growing demands for efficiency. Generative AI technology is emerging as a transformative solution. A recent webinar featuring experts from Emory Healthcare, UChicago Medicine, and Abridge shared insights on implementing and scaling AI across large health systems.
Panelists:
- Rachel Silverman, Director, Executive Programs, Emory Healthcare
- Sachin Shah, MD, CMIO, UChicago Medicine
- Reba Schenk, VP of Partner Success, Abridge
- Matt Troup, Senior Director of Clinical Success, Abridge
Key Takeaways:
1. Transformative Impact on Clinician Well-being
Clinician burnout is a long-standing issue. Emory began its AI journey in July 2023 after EHR data revealed providers were working into the early hours. By implementing Abridge’s AI platform, administrative burdens decreased, allowing clinicians to reclaim their time.
Dr. Shah highlighted similar outcomes at UChicago: “This technology fundamentally shifts how clinicians work.” A pilot group experienced a 40% reduction in burnout, with clinicians reporting improved work-life balance and better patient interactions. Patients also expressed appreciation for the focused attention they received.
2. Addressing Operational Challenges with Generative AI
Generative AI implementation requires flexibility and a tailored approach. Both health systems emphasized adapting the technology to unique workflows and specialties. Emory implemented the technology across outpatient, ED, and inpatient settings, moving quickly to validate its value across specialties.
“We learned almost immediately you have to move lightning fast,” said Silverman. “We are fundamentally changing the provider experience. The feedback we were getting is that Abridge was life-changing.”
Dr. Shah noted, “This wasn’t on our radar two years ago, but now it’s central to every strategy moving forward.” Both organizations stressed the importance of user feedback and continuous improvement to refine the technology.
3. Importance of Data-Driven Adoption Strategies
Successful AI deployment hinges on measurable impact. UChicago evaluated its initiatives using four pillars: clinician experience, patient experience, operational capacity, and adoption metrics. Key results included:
- A 40% reduction in clinician burnout.
- A 25-hour decrease in time to close ambulatory encounters.
- Up to a 4.5 percentage point improvement in Press Ganey patient experience scores.
Emory also prioritized clinician well-being, alongside productivity gains and financial benefits. Both systems highlighted the importance of clear KPIs to secure organizational buy-in and measure success.
4. Partnerships as Drivers of Success
Strong collaboration between health systems and technology partners like Abridge emerged as a cornerstone of success. Silverman emphasized the value of engaged clinician champions who advocate for the technology. Dr. Shah highlighted Abridge’s high-touch support model, which prioritized feedback loops and iterative improvements.
Schenk underscored the role of organic adoption: “It’s about setting the stage for clinicians to see the value themselves and inspiring engagement without mandating it.” Peer recommendations further drove adoption, creating a viral effect.
Conclusion
By reducing burnout, enhancing patient experience, and addressing operational inefficiencies, platforms like Abridge are paving the way for a more sustainable healthcare system. The experiences of Emory and UChicago provide a roadmap for other organizations, illustrating that thoughtful implementation, data-driven strategies, and strong partnerships are key to unlocking AI’s full potential at scale.
Watch the webinar here.
