Researchers are increasingly using speculative fiction as a method in future-focused health care research, according to a study published in the journal Medical Humanities on May 20, 2026. The approach helps explore potential impacts of digitalization, artificial intelligence, and data-driven decision-making on patient care.
The study, led by Dr. Sarah Thompson at the University of Toronto, involved workshops where health care professionals and patients co-wrote short stories set in 2040. These narratives addressed shifting patient needs and ethical dilemmas posed by emerging technologies.
Key findings include that speculative fiction can identify unforeseen consequences of AI in diagnosis and treatment, and highlight patient concerns about data privacy. The method is seen as a complement to traditional forecasting, offering qualitative insights into human experiences.
The research was funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and involved 45 participants from three hospitals. Results are being used to inform policy recommendations for ethical AI integration in health care.
