By Fawzia Reza, Ed.D.
Language is always evolving, and we regularly add new words to our lexicon, e.g., Google, SIRI and Alexa. Another phrase that has recently gained popularity is artificial intelligence (AI). AI is a branch of computer science that creates tools to perform tasks that usually require human intelligence. These include problem-solving, understanding language, recognizing patterns and making decisions. AI leverages algorithms, data and computational power to mimic cognitive functions such as learning and adaptation, leveraging machine learning, neural networks and robotics. If done correctly, it can intelligently and autonomously enhance productivity and innovation across numerous industries. For example, students use various AI tools, including Chat GPT, Otter AI, and Grammarly, to review their assignments or ask for assistance in understanding a concept.
While many of us have recently started considering how AI might be utilized in health care, Japan pioneered this concept several years ago. By 2016, approximately 15% of the country’s nursing homes had adopted robots in health care, which help elderly patients with various tasks, including lifting them from their beds to their chairs to administer medicine.
Meet the man behind AI, Sam Altman, here.
Although some fear AI might take over human jobs, the examples below demonstrate that it can significantly improve medical outcomes, complementing instead of competing with humans, especially when resources are constrained. AI-based autonomous applications are revolutionizing patient care and medical research. Machine learning algorithms analyze large amounts of data to identify patterns and predict patient outcomes, enabling early diagnosis and personalized treatment plans.
AI-driven imaging systems also enhance the accuracy of radiology by detecting anomalies that human eyes might miss. Natural language processing (NLP) facilitates the management of electronic health records (EHRs), streamlining administrative tasks and freeing up more time for patient interaction. AI-powered virtual assistants provide patients with 24/7 support, offering information and reminders about medication adherence. This improves the efficiency of health care delivery and can potentially enhance patient outcomes and reduce costs significantly. One example of these efficiencies is ambient voice recognition technology that summarizes the doctor’s notes while including the essential clinical details. This allows doctors to spend more time with patients instead of writing notes.
An increasingly competitive global economy, disasters, recessions, bankruptcy, wars and health issues are causing higher rates of depression and increased anxiety in adults and children across the world. Young children are now bombarded with schoolwork and take several extracurricular activities to fit in with the rest of their peers, leaving very little unstructured playtime. While therapy involving interaction with friendly animals can be very effective in relieving anxiety-related symptoms, people who have allergies often cannot benefit from animal therapy. An alternate therapy, such as the robot Robo Paro, which resembles a harp seal, can be used. Paro likes to be stroked, moves its head and legs and makes sounds. Paro has been named by the Guinness World Records as the World’s Most Therapeutic Robot.
Another AI tool that can significantly help reduce anxiety is WYSA, developed by Jo Aggarwal. WYSA is an innovative AI-powered mental health tool designed to provide accessible and confidential mental health support to users. Leveraging artificial intelligence, WYSA functions as a virtual mental health assistant, offering a range of services that include mood tracking, self-help techniques and therapeutic conversations. This emotional intelligence service listens and responds to the individuals’ stressors and provides strategies based on cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral reinforcement and mindfulness.
One of WYSA’s most impressive features is its ability to track and analyze users’ moods over time. Users can record their emotions and thoughts by engaging in daily check-ins, allowing the AI to detect patterns and provide insights into their mental well-being. This continuous monitoring helps users better understand their emotional state and identify triggers or stressors affecting their mental health. WYSA offers immediate support, making it very valuable for individuals who may not have access to traditional mental health services or prefer the anonymity of digital assistance.
Robotic surgeries have become increasingly common and can assist doctors in performing complex surgeries that could reduce recovery time. Many surgeons now use the da Vinci surgical system, which increases precision, reduces recovery times and improves patient outcomes. The tool allows surgeons to select minimally invasive approaches, reducing the risk of inadvertent damage to surrounding tissues and organs. This is particularly beneficial in complex and delicate surgeries where millimeter accuracy is crucial. Minimally invasive procedures performed with the da Vinci system typically result in smaller incisions, less blood loss and reduced postoperative pain. Patients often experience shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times, allowing them to return to normal activities sooner. Da Vinci also reduces the physical strain on surgeons during lengthy procedures because they can remain seated at the console, and the intuitive controls minimize fatigue, allowing them to perform complex procedures with greater endurance and concentration.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 25 million Americans have limited English proficiency. Patients with limited English proficiency (LEP) are often unable to receive the best care because they cannot share their concerns or understand doctors’ instructions. Many health clinics and hospitals offer translation services to address language barriers. However, these services are only available in a few languages. Patients whose language translation is not available are often left at the mercy of guessing what is relayed to them by their health care provider. Although hospitals recognize the increasing diversity of their patients, providing translation in several languages can be costly. An AI-based translation service such as Diya AI can help translate over 120 languages and can help with their medical needs.
Some of us may be skeptical of AI, especially if it is embraced by the health care industry, because we desire and trust human interaction. However, viewing technology as a partner instead of being in sole control might help alleviate concerns regarding AI’s use for our health needs.
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