Global healthcare leaders showcase AI solutions at HLTH 2024

LAS VEGAS, UNITED STATES — The HLTH 2024 conference in Las Vegas marked a pivotal shift in the discourse surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare.
According to a Fierce Healthcare report, unlike previous years, the conference discussions were largely theoretical, showcasing practical AI solutions actively deployed in clinical settings.
Healthcare executives and industry leaders also noted a more informed audience, reflecting a deeper understanding of AI’s tangible benefits.
AI implementation shows mature industry adoption
Andre Rebelo, director of communications at Wolters Kluwer Health, described the current phase of AI integration as an era of “rational exuberance.”
This sentiment was echoed by Greg Samios, president and CEO at Wolters Kluwer Health, who observed a transition from experimental press releases to real-world applications.
“This year, you’ve actually got hospital systems that are saying, ‘I’m using this generative AI solution that’s actually saving time and reducing administrative burden,’” Samios told Fierce Healthcare.
Healthcare execs demonstrate advanced AI understanding
The conference also witnessed a notable shift in attendee engagement.
Nabla, an AI ambient scribe company, reported that visitors to its booth were more interested in the specifics of its product than in demos.
“This year’s focus was on the degree of customization that we can provide,” Nabla executives noted. Discussions delved into the construction of AI frameworks, privacy concerns, governance issues, pricing strategies, and automation levels in clinical workflows.
Strategic AI partnerships transform healthcare delivery
AI scribes had a strong presence at HLTH 2024. Abridge sponsored the conference’s Wi-Fi network and used the opportunity to promote its booth. Suki AI announced a significant partnership with Zoom Healthcare, highlighting the growing integration of AI solutions in healthcare operations.
Transcarent showcased its AI benefits navigator, Wayfinding, emphasizing the pervasive presence of AI at the conference.
“AI was everywhere, mostly in concept, at HLTH,” Transcarent executives commented, noting the excitement for meaningful change despite the fact that many solutions were still conceptual.
Evolving perspectives on AI’s role
Christian Egle from Ernst & Young highlighted the evolution of AI discussions over recent years. “When I look at the conference, I think the post-COVID year was a very big hype [for AI],” Egle remarked.
He noted that while the hype persists, there are now concrete use cases demonstrating AI’s real-life applications.
Overall, the conference underscored a pivotal moment for AI in healthcare — transitioning from speculative hype to practical implementation and rational optimism for future advancements.
HLTH 2024 is one of the largest and most influential healthcare innovation conferences. It had over 12,000 attendees, including more than 2,750 CEOs and senior executives from across the healthcare ecosystem. The conference covered a wide range of topics, including AI, care delivery, health equity, and longevity, making it a must-attend event for anyone looking to shape the future of healthcare.