Collaborated on a nationwide randomized trial of AI in real-world virtual care

Collaborated on a nationwide randomized trial of AI in real-world virtual care

By research.google
Publication Date: 2026-02-03 12:00:00

AI systems capable of clinical reasoning and dialogue have the potential to dramatically improve access to medical expertise and care, while freeing doctors to spend time with their patients where it really matters. However, the responsible development of these technologies requires a rigorous, evidence-based approach. In recent years, our teams have explored the “art of the possible” through research systems that demonstrate clinician-level capabilities in simulated environments. While we have begun testing the safety and feasibility of these systems in clinical settings, moving to the next stage of evaluating these systems requires additional rigor and scope. The aim is to explore the benefits and impact of AI in virtual care, involving more patients across a range of geographies and conditions, and to conduct controlled comparisons.

Today we are announcing a significant step in this ongoing research journey: In collaboration with Included Health, a leading U.S. healthcare provider,…