A new Bain & Company survey shows that U.S. health systems are elevating primary care as a key pillar of long-term growth and patient engagement. According to its 2025 Primary Care at Health
Dr. Erin Morrissette, a Partner in the firm’s Healthcare & Life Sciences practice, noted, “Our research suggests that those who can navigate workforce shortages, reimagine care models, and adopt AI in ways that truly reduce burdens for clinicians will succeed. At the same time, significant questions remain about whether health systems can successfully deliver on these goals. But those that do will be best positioned to improve outcomes, enhance the patient experience, and create sustainable models for the future.”
The survey also shows accelerating adoption of AI tools in primary care operations. Health systems expect major increases in AI-supported scheduling, telehealth, and prescribing within three years. Patient comfort with AI is rising, particularly in administrative support roles, yet most individuals still prefer in-person visits for both acute and chronic care needs. While AI is seen as an important enabler of efficiency and coordinated care delivery, the findings indicate that patient trust continues to reinforce the role of clinicians at the center of primary care.