A recent study shows that artificial intelligence (AI) can help doctors identify patients who might benefit from palliative care. Researchers analyzed conversations between patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers, focusing on vocal cues like energy and pitch.
Led by Jiyoun Song, PhD, from the University of Pennsylvania, the study is the first to use speech processing to assess palliative care needs. This approach could improve how healthcare professionals communicate with seriously ill patients and their families.
The study, published in March 2026 in Geriatric Nursing, utilized automated speech processing to extract features such as pauses and tones from conversations. By combining these elements with transcripts and patient data, researchers developed various AI models to predict palliative care decisions. The most effective model accurately categorized about two-thirds of the conversations, though it’s still a starting point for clinical use.
Currently, about 60% of Americans who need palliative care don’t receive it, according to the New England Journal of Medicine Catalyst Insights Council. Palliative care focuses on managing pain and improving the quality of life for patients with serious illnesses.
The researchers emphasize the pressing need for better access to palliative care, particularly for older adults. Approximately 85% of users in managed long-term care (MLTC) are over 65, often dealing with multiple chronic illnesses. Alarmingly, about 20% of patients receiving home health care die within a year.
Improved communication is critical. The authors point out that early discussions about palliative care are often lacking, leaving many patients’ preferences unrecorded. Factors like cognitive decline can make it challenging for older adults to express their care preferences clearly.
Integrating speech recognition technology could be transformative. By analyzing vocal cues, healthcare professionals can tailor their communication strategies to better meet patients’ needs, fostering trust and clarity.
This innovative use of AI in healthcare is not just a technical advancement; it could also enhance patient care and comfort during difficult times. As experts continue to explore AI’s role in healthcare, this study offers a significant step toward addressing unmet needs in palliative care.
For further insights, you can read the full study here.
