As artificial intelligence reshapes healthcare, certain US states are leading the way more than offers with some even stepping in to regulate AI amid an absence of federal legislation to help address fast-changing developments. Here, we take a look at three:
New Jersey
New Jersey is already seen as a leader in hospital AI adoption after boasting the highest percentage of hospitals in the US using the tech (48.9%). This state is actively leveraging AI to enhance healthcare delivery. For example, Hackensack Meridian Health's AI-Powered Platform is a health system launched that offers patients across New Jersey 24/7 access to medical consultations and personalised health data, improving accessibility and reducing costs.
Furthermore, New Jersey’s Innovation Institute's AI Lab is also focused on helping small and medium enterprises, including healthcare providers, adopt AI by fostering innovation across the state.
California
Meanwhile, California, with its huge population and presence of several influential AI businesses in Silicon Valley, is naturally seen as a powerhouse of AI healthcare advancements.
The state hosts leading health systems like Kaiser Permanente and UC San Diego Health, while key recent developments include Suki: an AI voice assistant that reduces administrative tasks, and Mendaera: a company that is developing robotic systems for precision medical procedures, with $73 million raised in 2024 to seek FDA clearance by 2025.
California is also taking a lead role within regulatory leadership, with its Governor Gavin Newsom’s AI task force focused on responsible innovation while protecting patients from generative AI risks.
Utah
Utah has also made significant strides within AI in healthcare, with 41.4% of its hospitals adopting AI solutions. These efforts include collaborations with Oxford Academic to improve healthcare delivery, showing the state’s commitment to integrating AI into medical workflows.
By combining technological innovation, regulatory foresight, and academic contributions, states like New Jersey, California, and Utah are shaping the future of AI in healthcare, offering models for the rest of the US to follow.
