AI-assisted diagnostics expand across Europe
Patient care, staff workload and operational efficiency are the top priorities for AI in European health systems, with less emphasis on research or reducing inequalities.
AI-powered diagnostics are being implemented across Europe, with France, Portugal, Hungary, Sweden and the Netherlands leading the way. The technology is mainly used in ophthalmology, radiology and dermatology, helping reduce waiting times and ease pressure on medical staff.
Some countries, including the UK and Italy, use AI informally in a limited number of facilities, while others, such as Spain, Poland, Belgium, Serbia and Ukraine, are still trialling it.
A notable example comes from Slovakia, where AI software automated organ-contouring in radiotherapy, halving oncologists’ workload while maintaining adherence to modern international standards.
Beyond diagnostics, AI is increasingly deployed for patient chatbots, administrative automation and logistics management. France and Spain are the most advanced, with established practices spanning surgery, diagnostics, symptom checkers, administrative tasks and chatbots.
Legal uncertainty remains the biggest barrier to widespread AI adoption, cited by 86% of surveyed countries. Financial constraints are the second most reported obstacle, although many nations have already assigned regulatory agencies to approve AI systems in healthcare.
Cross-country collaboration is beginning to emerge, allowing states to share resources and strengthen governance frameworks.
European states are prioritising AI applications that improve patient care, reduce inefficiencies and ease staff workloads.
Fewer countries use AI for research, drug discovery or reducing inequalities, showing it mainly addresses immediate operational pressures rather than long-term healthcare changes.
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