Financial engagement platform Cedar is developing AI-powered tools in partnership with Google Cloud to improve healthcare financial experience for patients across the US.

As part of the collaboration, the company is using Google Cloud’s generative AI and machine learning solutions, including Document AI, Generative AI App Builder, Contact Center AI, and Vertex AI.

These tools are claimed to help Cedar expedite the development of large language model (LLM) in its Cedar Suite.

They help educate and guide patients by providing responses to their questions regarding patients’ financial responsibilities, in addition to facilitating personalised communication between patients, payers, and providers.

This is expected to increase transparency in the healthcare billing process.

Cedar engineering head Kinshuk Mishra said: “Paying a medical bill is confusing at best, and a financial burden at worst. That’s why our mission — to empower us all to easily and affordably pursue the care we need — has always been supported by a focus on simple experiences, powered by data.

“We’re excited to continue our machine learning work in partnership with Google Cloud, using LLMs and AI to drive toward our mission of making healthcare more accessible — especially given Google’s approach to AI safety, which is necessary to ensure that the tools we develop are accurate, reliable and improve the patient financial experience.”

According to the company, generative AI, including LLMs, help in addressing crucial financial pain points and provide better knowledge regarding financial workflows, from pre-visit check-ins and estimates to post-visit bill payments.