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Writer's pictureMartin Ignatovski

Embracing AI: Overcoming Fear in Healthcare

No need to fear AI use in healthcare, as long as the technology is ethically implemented.
No need to fear AI use in healthcare, as long as the technology is ethically implemented.
AI is here to stay. Should we fear, or should we embrace the future?

I keep hearing news reporters and people in various industries talk about how much they fear AI. They never fail to amaze me with their Terminator references. I will try to demystify AI, especially its use in healthcare, and to replace fear with understanding and confidence. 


I see a future where technology and human expertise collaborate, creating a healthcare environment that’s more efficient, inclusive, and effective. AI is often viewed through a lens of fiction and predictions that fuel misconceptions. Stories of AI passing human intelligence and replacing jobs overshadow its potential as a tool.

Importance of AI in healthcare (data pulled from various research sources)


Importance of AI in healthcare technology
Importance of AI in healthcare (data pulled from various research sources).

What is AI, really?

AI is not about robots taking over the world. Simply put, it's a branch of computer science focused on creating systems capable of performing tasks that typically require human intelligence. The tasks range from recognizing speech and making decisions to solving complex problems. 


Many misunderstand the role of AI in healthcare. AI does not operate with a mind of its own. It relies on methods, algorithms, and data to make informed suggestions and recommendations. It is important to understand that AI models don’t make the decisions for healthcare professionals but act as assistants, making it easier for them to determine the best course of action. 


How can we use AI in healthcare technology?

We already see applications of different AI models and tools in healthcare technology. The applications in which AI tools can be used are vast. AI tools can help increase healthcare professionals' efficiency by cutting down the time required for administrative tasks. It can also help provide a more holistic picture of a patient's diagnosis, considering the entire patient's history. 


Healthcare facilities can also use AI systems to analyze patterns in patient data. These systems can predict almost everything, from potential outbreak hotspots to individual patient risks. The technology enables proactive healthcare management while allowing medical professionals to allocate resources efficiently and intervene in the early stages of patient care. 


Regardless of the application and use case, AI is a sophisticated tool that processes large amounts of data to provide insights that would be unattainable in any other situation. Is there a better way to modernize healthcare than this?


Why the fear and anxiety?

All of us have watched a sci-fi movie where AI takes over the world, correct? It's easy to see why these dramatic portrayals can make anyone uneasy about AI’s application in healthcare. But the AI we plan on using today isn't plotting world domination. Think of it as a trained tool designed to help, not harm.


Could you think about the last time technology made a task easier for you? Industrial revolution? Internet? Health Information Exchanges? Electronic Health Records? That's what AI is doing in healthcare. It's not an all-knowing robot but a sophisticated program created by people, for people, to make healthcare better and more accessible.


The truth is that AI is like a new member of the healthcare team, guided by rules and working under human supervision. It doesn't make decisions independently but provides valuable support, helping healthcare professionals provide all of us with better care. Understanding this can turn our apprehension into appreciation for what AI brings to our health and well-being.


AI and humans: a true collaboration

Picture a healthcare visit where your healthcare professional, with AI's assistance, instantly reviews your entire health history. AI in healthcare isn't just about making diagnoses; it's also revolutionizing how healthcare professionals understand your health background. AI systems can efficiently analyze medical records within an EHR system, allowing clinicians (not the AI tool) to make better decisions.


Also, think of AI as the ultimate assistant in a medical setting. It helps healthcare professionals by taking over time-consuming tasks like writing notes and processing information. This allows healthcare professionals more time to focus on what they do best – providing personalized care and attention to their patients.


The beauty of AI in healthcare technology lies in its ability to see patterns in your health data that might not be immediately obvious. It helps to assemble the patient’s health puzzle while providing insights that enable more accurate and holistic healthcare. In this partnership, AI doesn't replace the human touch. It enhances it and ensures the patient’s healthcare experience is as informed and personalized as possible.


Ethical considerations

Everyone wonders how safe our personal information is when a healthcare organization uses an AI tool. It's a valid concern. AI systems handle a massive amount of sensitive data, which comes with the responsibility to maintain privacy and security. But isn’t that the same concern with EHR systems, patient portals, insurance companies, and health information exchanges? AI can be deployed with strong security measures to protect health data.


Besides privacy and security, there are also ethical concerns. Decisions about patients’ health should always be made with care and empathy – qualities AI doesn't possess. That's why human professionals must always oversee AI in healthcare. They should ensure that AI's suggestions align with ethical standards and are made with the patient’s best interests in mind.


Finally, the accuracy of AI predictions and managing potential biases in AI algorithms are also part of the equation. The healthcare technology industry can address these issues by refining AI systems and training them with diverse data sets. The process will help make AI tools more reliable and fair, ensuring they serve everyone equally.


How to prepare for an AI-augmented future?

Implementing AI in healthcare isn't just about technology. It's about mindset. As we move into a future where AI plays a significant role, staying informed and open to change is crucial. For healthcare professionals, this means continuous learning about new AI technologies and how they can enhance patient care. For patients, it involves understanding how AI might be part of their treatment and health management.


The good news is that learning about AI doesn't have to be daunting. Many resources are available, from online courses to seminars, tailored for healthcare professionals and the general public. These resources demystify AI and make it more approachable and understandable.


Also, let's not forget the power of community in this journey. Engaging in discussions, sharing experiences, and voicing concerns about AI in healthcare forums can be incredibly beneficial. These conversations will help shape a future where AI is used responsibly and effectively and where everyone involved benefits from its applications.


Is AI still about robots?

We covered that AI in healthcare is less about futuristic robots and more about smart tools that improve our healthcare experiences. It's a partnership where technology assists, but humans lead. By understanding and embracing AI, we can alleviate fears and recognize its value as a powerful ally in healthcare.


So, let's approach AI in healthcare with curiosity and an open mind. The future of healthcare is collaborative: where AI supports us in living healthier, longer lives, where AI supports clinicians in making informed decisions, and where AI improves the overall healthcare experience. We can look forward to a future with optimism, not fear.

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