Artificial Intelligence (AI), is a smart technology that copies human thinking by using computers, robots, and math formulas to analyze real-time information. It can mimic human decision-making and judgment by analyzing large amounts of data, recognizing patterns, and making predictions.
Businesses can use AI to automate processes, optimize operations, and improve customer experiences. Various industries use this technology, particularly in transportation, finance, advertising, production, and healthcare industries.
AI can perform a variety of tasks, both simple and complex. Tasks may include data entry, customer service, medical diagnosis, and autonomous driving. This is an example of predictive healthcare technology, which can improve decision-making by providing insights and recommendations based on data analysis. AI is becoming increasingly important in the modern world, and its applications are growing rapidly.
Using AI in Healthcare
The healthcare industry is experiencing a significant transformation due to the emergence of Artificial Intelligence. AI and machine learning are helping doctors find and treat chronic illnesses using electronic health records, making personalized healthcare possible. For starters, IBM’s smart computer found a rare leukemia type that doctors couldn’t find for months.
Additionally, predictive healthcare is gradually gaining traction. These advancements are revolutionizing the healthcare sector and have the potential to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. Apart from diagnosis, the healthcare field uses AI in areas like billing, scheduling, research, surgery, and virtual nursing.
Sensely, a virtual healthcare app, serves as a prime example of artificial intelligence in the healthcare field. Individuals can utilize the application to monitor their health concerns and medications, while also engaging in conversations with healthcare professionals. The Sensely platform helps patients with their medical needs using advanced technologies like speech recognition, machine learning, and wireless connection. Medical devices such as blood pressure monitors can connect to the app for instant tracking.
Key features this healthcare app provides include:
- Appointment scheduling
- Nurse line
- ER direction
- Self-care
- Clinical advice
AI in Surgery
The integration of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) software has made AI a prevalent instrument in the realm of surgery. This advanced technology helps with various procedures, like those for women’s health, digestion, and cancer treatment.
AI robots possess the capability to perform surgery from a distance. By utilizing a computer, a surgeon can control the robot without being physically present in the same room as the patient. Although not yet widely utilized, healthcare facilities are starting to embrace this technology. One notable example is the Da Vinci surgical robot system, which facilitates remote surgery with enhanced precision and reduced invasiveness.
Benefits and Concerns of AI
AI is increasingly being used in healthcare, including in hospitals, clinics, pharmaceutical companies, medical imaging, diagnostics, research, and healthcare management. With the growth of this new technology, it is crucial to consider its impact on patients and providers. We need to determine if it truly benefits them or if there are any pressing issues that require attention.
The advantages of expanding the use of AI in healthcare include, but are not limited to:
- Increasing accessibility to healthcare
- Providing real-time data to accelerate the timeframe and accuracy of the patient’s diagnosis
- Aiding in the early detection of disease risks, such as hereditary genetic disorders
- Streamlining daily tasks, allowing for more one-on-one patient care
- Saving time and resources
- Assisting in surgery
- Expediating research data
- Reducing provider stress
However, with any new technology, there are areas of concern and AI is no different. Potential disadvantages of AI include:
- Requires human surveillance
- Lacks personal involvement
- Potentially overlooks the impact of social determents
- Increases the possibility of incorrect diagnoses
- Decreases healthcare jobs, negatively impacting the economy
- Inserts social biases due to the programmer
- Increases the risk of security breaches
Is AI Worth It?
AI is a valuable tool, not a replacement, for healthcare providers. The provider must utilize AI database information, training, and expertise to determine the correct diagnosis and treatment for their patient. This involves analyzing the data, applying their knowledge and skills, and making an informed decision.
Together, providers and AI technology are key to improving the quality and cost of patient care. With advancements in technology, it is crucial to enhance oversight. This is necessary to ensure that both providers and patients have access to the most accurate information. Overall, the provider’s goal is to ensure that the patient receives the most appropriate and effective care possible.
About the Author: James J. Tarasovitch, MBA, CPA is a Senior Healthcare Executive with over 30 years of healthcare experience. He has been the regional CFO for Ascension Wisconsin for the past 6 years and at the Mayo Clinic Health System for 10 years prior. James is also an adjunct professor at the Batterman School of Business at Concordia University.