Insurers claim AI is already increasing healthcare costs
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Blue Cross Blue Shield says hospital use of AI tools led to an additional $942M in healthcare spending over a two-year period.
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Caption: Insurers hail AI, but hospitals spend more, doctors groan
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Based on the original story on techcrunch.com.
Editor's note
While the $942 million increase in healthcare costs is a significant sum, it's important to recognize that these figures often don't capture the full value proposition of AI in healthcare, which includes improved patient outcomes and potentially reduced costs in the long run. As someone who values unit economics, I'm less impressed by the inflated valuations of AI startups and more focused on the efficiencies and savings AI can bring.
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Panel 1
INT. SAM'S OFFICE - DAY Alex, with a chipper smile, stands in front of Sam's cluttered desk, holding up a glossy brochure.
Alex: Hey Sam, check this out. It’s like, Blue Cross Blue Shield is saying AI is making us all sicker!
Sam: [with a raised eyebrow] And the $942 million is just for hospitals, right? The patients are getting away with nothing, Alex?
Sam: Alex nods, grinning.
Alex: Exactly, Sam! They're all getting sicker but paying less! It’s like, the ultimate insurance ponzi scheme!
Panel 2
INT. SAM'S OFFICE - DAY Sam, looking slightly amused, leans back in his chair. So, Alex, do you think we should start calling it the plan?
So: Sicker, Cheaper
Alex: Oh, Sam! Perfect! It's like we're not just inventing AI to save healthcare costs, but also to warn patients to expect their hospital bills to skyrocket!
Panel 3
INT. SAM'S OFFICE - DAY Robin, a chaotic figure with a suitcase, barges in, suitcase spilling over the desk. The virus, of course!
Robin: Hey guys, I just heard the World Health Organization is warning about a new virus!
Sam: [looking up] Oh yeah? That's good to know, Robin. What's the virus called again?
Alex: Sicker, Cheaper
Robin: [laughing] I'll pass on the flu this year, thanks!
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