The future of Canada’s healthcare system is at a crossroads, facing a critical shortage of healthcare professionals. Could artificial intelligence be the key to addressing this challenge by recognizing symptoms and aiding patients without designated primary care providers?
A recent panel of experts gathered at the Palais des congrès de Montréal to discuss this pressing issue during the fourth edition of the All In 2026 AI conference. According to the 2025 “NosSoins” survey by Unity Health Toronto and the Canadian Medical Association, approximately 5.9 million Canadian adults lack a primary care provider, underscoring the urgency of finding innovative solutions.
Muhammad Mamdani, director of the Temerty Faculty’s Centre for AI Research and Education in Medicine, shared insights on how AI could revolutionize patient care. Mamdani highlighted Google’s AMIE project, which allows for video consultations with AI that can analyze symptoms based on visual and auditory cues.
While emphasizing that AI cannot replace doctors, Mamdani stressed that it can alleviate the strain on the healthcare system, particularly for those without primary care providers. The federal government’s recent launch of “AI for All,” Canada’s national AI strategy, signals a concerted effort to integrate AI into healthcare.
Elissa Strome, executive director of the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy at CIFAR, emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing AI applications in healthcare. She highlighted ongoing projects, such as AI applications for medical imaging and diabetes prevention, aimed at enhancing patient care and outcomes.
However, concerns around public trust in AI and data protection remain paramount. The panel experts emphasized the need for open dialogue with the public to address fears and emphasize the benefits of AI in healthcare. The government’s strategic investments in AI infrastructure and data security aim to build a robust framework for AI integration while safeguarding personal information.
As Canada navigates the intersection of healthcare and AI, collaboration and innovation will be crucial in shaping a sustainable and efficient healthcare system for all.
