Artificial Intelligence, often referred to as “AI”, has
become a part of our daily lives even when we may not be aware of it. Everything
from our internet searches to automated customer service involves AI. AI has
replaced many of these jobs. But in my opinion, the human services field is one
career area will never be replaced by AI. I list a few reasons why the human
services field is safe from Artificial Intelligence.
Human services require a hands-on approach to providing care.
Most human services require direct human contact either by
phone or in person. Assessment and intake meetings require direct contact with
the client. Documentation of services and data entry is still done by a
clinician or support staff.
Services like Day Support and Group Home residential will
always require direct care staffing. These services cannot be automated or conducted
by any other technology.
Support with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and
medication administration require direct human assistance.
Regulations require face-to-face contact
Many states require face-to-face contact with clients to
stay in compliance with regulations. Face to face contact may be required every
week, 30 days, or 90 days depending on the service. Intake and annual meetings
also require face-to-face contact as well as original signatures on
documentation.
Face-to-face contact is an essential component in the human
services field. Timely face to face contact is often tied to billing and
reimbursement for service providers. Late face-to-face contact could lead to paybacks
if discovered during an audit.
The outlook for human services careers is positive with research projecting a 17% increase in employment in the next few years. The Human Services field also tends to still
offer stable job opportunities in tough economic times.
Human Service job opportunities typically remain stable
during economic recession.
Especially if programs are primarily funded through Medicaid, which is usually
less impacted than other funding sources. Human services will remain a profession that
requires specialized skills that will always be in demand as long as there are people
in need.
