In the ever-evolving healthcare domain, characterised by technological advancements and distinct patient requirements, integrating Artificial Intelligence is no longer merely advantageous—it is imperative.
Let’s understand the concept and uncover the potential of AI in healthcare.
Let’s understand the concept and uncover the potential of AI in healthcare.
AI in healthcare refers to the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies like machine learning, natural language processing, deep learning etc. to strengthen the healthcare sector.
As the world grapples with rising lifestyle disorders and chronic diseases, health experts are increasingly embracing AI-enabled assistance. By leveraging AI in hospitals and clinics, healthcare systems can become smarter, faster, and more efficient in taking a proactive approach to various aspects of public health.
Benefits of AI in Healthcare
The critical challenges of the healthcare industry are accessibility, affordability, delayed detection and diagnostic errors. AI, as a powerful tool, can address many of these challenges.
1. Diagnostic Accuracy
According to Dr Eric Topol, author of Deep Medicine, while AI may not replace experienced doctors, those who use AI will be better positioned. AI tools, such as self-administered kits for urinary tract infections and cough analysis, are already proving revolutionary. Deloitte predicts⁽¹⁾ that AI advancements could make CAD imaging studies more accurate, and this technology could also be used in other fields, such as dermatology, to provide clearer reviews of skin lesions.
AI is redefining data processing for disease diagnosis, treatment and prevention. Medical professionals can now make a more informed decision, saving time and reducing costs. Furthermore, by handling routine tasks, AI will free up doctors to spend more time with patients, enabling them to get a better understanding of the latter’s conditions.
2. Patient Care
Research⁽²⁾ shows that enhanced patient involvement results in better health outcomes, financial efficiency, and improved patient experiences. However, while providers may design optimal care plans, they’re ineffective if patients do not adhere to the treatment course. AI is being used to support digital communications, offering reminders for medications and follow-ups and providing health tips, facilitating a seamless patient experience. As per research by The NHS⁽³⁾ AI software can shorten waiting times and reduce missed appointments by 30%.
3. Efficient Data Management
Healthcare is one of the most data-intensive industries, with vast patient records and medical research. AI plays a crucial role by enhancing the analysis of this data, uncovering trends, and identifying valuable insights that may not be obvious. This supports medical professionals in mapping interventions and delivering better care in the form of early disease detection, predicting disorder vulnerabilities, and verifying the effectiveness of treatment protocols.
4. Research and Development
Drug development entails high costs and lengthy research. Reports suggest⁽⁴⁾, that drug testing can cost about $1.3 billion and only 10% make it to market. With AI technologies, the industry is advancing towards "smart healthcare". Machine learning models are employed to enhance diagnostic accuracy and assist in building trial cohorts more effectively. AI accelerates this process by facilitating drug design and predicting potential side effects.
Future of AI in Healthcare
AI is set to revolutionise healthcare, particularly through machine learning, which underpins the development of precision medicine. While early attempts at providing diagnosis and treatment recommendations have faced challenges, AI is set to overcome these obstacles. With advancements in imaging analysis using AI for reviewing radiology and pathology images and speech and text recognition technologies streamlining patient communication and clinical note-taking, the scope of AI is anticipated to grow manifold.
However, the key challenge lies not in AI’s technological capabilities but in its adoption within clinical practice. Two major hurdles are:
1. Internet Access: A 2021 study⁽⁵⁾ highlights that 3 billion people lack internet connectivity, hindering access to digital healthcare innovations. Ensuring broader internet access is essential for equitable adoption and benefit from AI technologies
2. Data Security: The use of AI in healthcare involves sensitive patient data. Strong measures must be implemented to ensure security while complying with regulations.
"The future of healthcare is about combining the best of human intelligence with the best of artificial intelligence."
Dr. Robert Wachter,
Chair of the Department of Medicine, UCSF