There are a lot of predictions that AI doctors are coming soon. A look at the investment market confirms the industry is buzzing around AI healthcare startups. But AI chatbots can only get patients so far. At some point, most medical treatment, especially specialty care, requires a face-to-face encounter with a physician. Hybrid care companies that combine in-person medical services and virtual care services are poised for strong growth, many industry executives say, buoyed by economic and workforce trends, federal policy changes and the rising demand for care. As healthcare costs continue to rise, providers and payers are looking for innovative solutions and alternative models that provide high-quality care to patients and address high-cost medical issues.