Outdated tech & slow AI hinder care, fuel burnout in healthcare

Healthcare professionals are struggling with outdated technology systems, leading to patient care disruptions and increased cybersecurity risks. A new survey of over 1,000 frontline healthcare workers across the United States, United Kingdom, and Ireland highlights widespread concerns over the impact of legacy systems and the slow adoption of artificial intelligence across the sector.

Technology shortfalls

Survey data shows that 98% of respondents experience delays or errors in patient care caused by inefficient technology, with the average clinician reporting 11 such incidents each month. More than 95% agree that technology failures or inaccessibility of data negatively impact patients. Nearly a quarter say that events putting patient safety at risk happen at least once per shift.

Healthcare workers also reported that outdated systems contribute to high levels of staff burnout. In Ireland, all respondents linked legacy technology directly to burnout, with similarly high figures in the UK and US (97% and 95% respectively).

Shadow IT risks

The gap between available technology and clinical needs is driving many professionals to seek unsanctioned workarounds. Almost a quarter of clinicians admitted to using workarounds for basic tasks, often outside approved systems. This practice has raised concerns about potential compliance breaches and the security of sensitive patient data, especially as reported extortion attacks have tripled in 2025.

Slow AI adoption

While 98% of clinicians said artificial intelligence could help streamline and automate routine tasks, fewer than half reported that their organisations are currently using AI tools. This points to a significant technology gap in healthcare delivery and an urgent need for modernisation efforts that support frontline needs.

Almost all respondents (99%) believe that, if technical barriers were removed, AI would have an immediate positive impact in particular by automating administrative tasks and freeing up time for direct patient care.

Real-time data

Respondents overwhelmingly cited improved access to real-time data as critical for boosting care quality. Over 90% believe real-time data would improve most aspects of care, from reducing duplicate work to better team coordination. However, only 35% said they currently use real-time data at scale in their roles. Those who do report higher satisfaction with their technology systems.

Retention challenges

The findings come at a time when the healthcare sector is grappling with rising workforce pressures. According to some estimates, 55% of US healthcare workers may switch jobs in 2026. Modernisation of IT systems is seen as essential to safeguarding patient safety and retaining skilled professionals.

"Hospitals and healthcare workers are being pushed to the brink. Healthcare professionals are being asked to do more with less, while relying on outdated technology systems that were never designed for the complexity of modern care. Presidio's new data reinforces that modern, AI-driven systems can change that to ease burnout, reducing errors and most importantly, giving clinicians the time back to focus on delivering safe, efficient care," said Cabul Mehta, Industry Principal, Healthcare and Life Sciences, Presidio.

Security and interoperability are key requirements identified for any new systems, as regulators and patients alike demand greater assurances over data protection and quality of care.

"The message from the frontline is clear, technology should never come between a clinician and a patient; it should bring them closer and eventually feel invisible. When we modernise healthcare systems, we're doing more than upgrading IT. We're restoring connection and trust, and ultimately improving every patient's experience," said Mehta.