STADA Report 2026: 56% of Europeans are satisfied with health systems, while 67% indicate staff shortages as a major challenge / 55% use AI for health, but prefer human decisions

At the European level, the degree of satisfaction with health systems remains low, with only 56% of respondents satisfied, similar to 2025. The main challenges identified include a shortage of medical staff (67%) and long waiting times.

Financial access to medical services is a concern for 43% of Europeans, and the aging population and mental health issues are also mentioned. 58% of respondents would prioritize reducing waiting times if they were health ministers. In this context, 78% believe they have the necessary knowledge to manage their health, and 55% use AI for this purpose.

Although the majority of Europeans accept the use of AI, they want final decisions to remain in the hands of health professionals, who are perceived as trusted sources.

The STADA 2026 report suggests a hybrid future in healthcare, combining technology with human expertise, highlighting that the transformation of the system is not temporary but a new norm.