Elsevier Report Finds Nurses Underrepresented in Clinical AI Adoption

Elsevier has released its Clinician of the Future 2026 report, launched on International Nurses Day, revealing unequal adoption of artificial intelligence across healthcare roles. The findings were announced in a press release and highlight that nurses are underrepresented in both AI use and organizational decision-making about AI.

The global survey included 2,757 clinicians from 118 countries. While 49% of respondents use AI at work, only about one third rely on tools designed specifically for clinical use. Nurses report significantly lower adoption rates than physicians, with 41% using AI regularly compared to 57% of doctors. Of those, 30% of nurses use clinical-specific AI tools versus 37% of physicians.

Despite lower adoption, nurses express optimism about AI’s potential. Sixty-one percent believe AI will improve care quality within five to ten years, and 59% expect better patient outcomes in the next two to three years. However, 41% of nurses say their views are rarely or never reflected in AI decision-making, compared to 19% of physicians who share that perception.

The report also notes that 68% of clinicians lack adequate AI training, and 60% have limited confidence in governance and oversight. Elsevier states that trusted, evidence-based AI tools and inclusive implementation are essential to ensure all members of the care team benefit from AI integration in healthcare.