61% of Irish adults identify rising mental health issues as the country’s biggest health challenge. That's according to Clonmel Healthcare following the release of new research partnered with the consumer healthcare company, STADA.
The comprehensive study, released today as part of the STADA Health Report 2026, surveyed public attitudes across 20 countries globally to explore the evolving relationship between patient self-empowerment, technology, and traditional healthcare systems.
The study found that despite the pressures put on modern healthcare delivery, Irish patients strongly resist digital workarounds, such as AI therapy.
The study found that nearly three in five (59%) Irish adults do not currently use AI in relation to their health, placing Ireland last among the 20 European nations surveyed
This has been reported due to lack of trust, human connection and concerns over data privacy.
Over half of the participants say they would never trust an AI diagnosis as much as a doctor’s, with 60% insisting on face-to-face therapy or mental health support over digital alternatives.
Dr Ciara McKenna, General Practitioner from Bray Rose Clinic Bray in Wicklow, told Ireland's Classic Hits Radio even though technology can help us with day-today tasks, it can never replace the human touch:
“As a GP, I see everyday that medicine is about so much more than just science, it's about empathy, the STATA report shows that while technology has a place behind the scenes, Irish patients value that face-to-face connection with their doctor.”
The STADA Group Health Report 2026 was carried out amongst 19,773 respondents across 20 countries. 501 Irish respondents took part in the research.
