MGB Commits $400 Million to Strategic Primary Care Investment
- Oct 13
- 2 min read
Mass General Brigham (MGB) has launched a significant, multi-faceted strategy to confront the growing primary care crisis impacting patients across the United States and the New England region. Recognizing that primary care nationwide is struggling with physician shortages, rising administrative burden, burnout, inadequate reimbursement, and overwhelming demand, MGB has been developing a plan for nearly two years.
The core of this commitment is a five-year, $400 million to strategic primary care investment designed to rapidly execute MGB’s vision. This substantial funding aims to construct a care model that is inclusive, innovative, and supportive of both clinicians and patients.
A key component of MGB’s transformation involves the implementation of advanced technology. MGB has increased access to leading-edge artificial intelligence (AI) tools for notetaking and charting for all attending physician and advanced practice providers, a technology many clinicians have described as a “game changer” for reducing administrative burden.
Beyond clinician support, MGB is also using AI to address patient access directly. The health system launched an AI platform called “Care Connect” on September 9th for the 15,000 MGB patients currently without a primary care doctor. This 24/7 chatbot interviews the patient, reviews medical records, produces a list of potential diagnoses, and can set up a telehealth appointment with a physician in as little as half an hour. MGB is among the first healthcare systems nationally to roll out this type of app.
MGB’s investment extends beyond technology, focusing on systemic support. The strategy includes:
Increased staff support for administrative tasks, including medical assistants and coordinators to handle prior authorizations and prescription refills.
The deployment of team-based virtual solutions and digital tools, and enhanced care coordination.
Establishing a new, system-wide leadership position: the MGB chief of primary care. This practicing physician will spearhead strategy and clinical operations and advocate for clinicians.
However, the introduction of AI has met with some skepticism internally. Several primary care doctors at MGB have described AI as a “sideshow,” contending that the true solution to the shortage requires providing the necessary pay and working conditions to attract and retain more primary care physicians.
Anne Klibanski, MD, president and CEO of MGB, affirmed that this strategy represents an "unwavering commitment" to primary care clinicians and patients, noting that strength in primary care strengthens all the care the system delivers. The goal is to build a future where every clinician feels valued and empowered.
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