AI more likely help, not replace health care workers, new study shows

Northwest Arkansas Council and Accenture released Monday (March 2) a study to help the region’s health care workforce prepare for and better understand the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the health care industry.

The Northwest Arkansas 2026 Health Care + AI Workforce Readiness Plan, prepared by Accenture, includes regional employment data and stakeholder input, and shows that AI is more likely to augment health care roles than replace them.

Health care employment in Northwest Arkansas has risen by 41.8% over the past decade, adding more than 10,000 jobs and reaching more than 35,000 professionals. Over the next 10 years, more than 7,400 jobs are expected to be added to the region’s health care workforce.

“This report provides clarity about how AI is reshaping health care roles across Northwest Arkansas,” said Stefanie Pawluk, executive director of the council’s Health Care Transformation Division. “Our responsibility is to ensure the workforce is prepared. That means equipping current and future providers with the skills and confidence to work alongside these technologies.”

The study shows that about 39% of time spent in health care roles is expected to be affected by AI through automation or augmentation. Automation exposure is the highest in administrative and non-clinical roles, while clinical and allied health roles are more likely to be augmented. In practice, AI will support decision-making and documentation, allowing providers to spend more time with patients and in training.

“AI should not be viewed as something to fear but as a powerful enabler,” said Czar Soriano of Accenture. “This roadmap is about meeting people where they are today and helping them evolve with AI, so technology augments human expertise, strengthens care delivery and creates sustainable career pathways for the local health care workforce.”

According to the report, area stakeholders emphasized the need for AI literacy, hands-on training, and governance frameworks to ensure responsible use by providers and education partners.

“Artificial intelligence is already helping health systems streamline documentation, improve diagnostics and better coordinate care,” said Sonal Bhakta, chief medical officer of Mercy Northwest Arkansas. “The key is thoughtful implementation. When deployed responsibly, these tools can reduce administrative burden and allow clinicians to focus more time on patients.”

“AI is rapidly reshaping care delivery across Northwest Arkansas, and our responsibility is clear,” said Tina Maddox, associate provost of the UAMS Northwest Regional Campus. “We must prepare the next generation of health professionals to use these tools with skill and confidence. When clinicians are trained to work alongside AI, they gain valuable time with patients, strengthen care coordination, and deliver safer, more personalized care. Preparing our workforce today ensures better outcomes for our communities tomorrow, and for all patients.”

The study builds on the Northwest Arkansas Council’s Vision 2030 health care strategy that emphasizes expanding graduate medical education, strengthening talent pipelines, and improving access to specialty care. The Health Care Transportation Division will convene area partners and advance workforce readiness, education and responsible use as AI continues to evolve.