AACE 2026: Will AI replace endocrinologists?
The same technology drawing patients away from clinic may also improve the patient-physician relationship.
By
Jared Bilski
April 22, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: AACE 2026: Will AI replace endocrinologists?
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Endocrinology Key Mechanisms AI's role in patient self-diagnosis and clinician support. Target Population Patients with chronic conditions such as hypothyroidism and diabetes. Care Setting Outpatient clinics and specialty care.
Key Highlights
14 million clinic visits in the U.S. canceled due to AI use. Patients prefer AI for faster, cheaper, and easier access to medical advice. AI-generated misinformation complicates patient-clinician interactions. AI tools can enhance patient-physician relationships when used thoughtfully. Ambient documentation tools allow for improved clinician-patient engagement. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Clinicians should be aware of AI's influence on patient self-diagnosis. Management
Utilize AI for in-basket messaging to enhance patient communication. Monitoring & Follow-up
Implement pre-visit AI tools to gather patient data efficiently. Risks
Address the challenges of misinformation from AI sources. Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients with chronic endocrine disorders.
AI can assist in managing patient inquiries and treatment adherence.
Clinical Best Practices
Engage with AI developers to ensure safe and effective tools for patient care. Focus on patient-centered communication using AI-generated responses. References
