AI Agents Reduce Patient Access Time and Pajama Time for Doctors

In this episode, Crystal Broj, Enterprise Chief Digital Transformation Officer at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC), shares how the organization is transforming healthcare through AI-powered voice bots, ambient listening, and digital front door innovations. She discusses the challenges and successes of implementing a new patient check-in system and deploying an automated AI agent in their patient access center.

Crystal notes that one of the biggest lessons is the value of starting small—piloting technology, demonstrating ROI and KPIs, and scaling gradually. MUSC’s AI voice bot – Emily – handles after-hours calls and appointment rescheduling, generating over $3 million in collections and reducing call handling time. Ambient tools like DAX have helped physicians cut “pajama time” by 37%, speed up chart closure, and improve clinical documentation. She also highlights how digital tools in the patient access center enhance scheduling and virtual care access, creating a seamless digital front door. 

Crystal stresses the need for agile implementation, effective change management, and aligning technology with real workflows to drive lasting impact. Take a listen.