Embrace Change and the Unknown: The Pivotal Role of AI in Healthcare
In today’s landscape, AI is both revolutionary and, for some, a bit intimidating - specifically when it comes to healthcare. Often, when we think of AI, we think of privacy issues and scary robots taking over our lives. Hell, I’ve seen the movie M3GAN…I get it!
However, AI in healthcare is not about replacing humans or expertise. It’s about complementing it. There was a recent NPR article I came across that hit the nail on the head, “AI won’t replace doctors, but it will replace doctors who don’t use AI.” As someone who’s worked in the health, wellness and tech industry for years, I see AI as an invaluable second set of eyes that can help reshape the industry. And one that shouldn’t be feared. I loved this podcast by Startup + Health on how AI can humanize healthcare.
Fear often stems from the unknown and the threat of change. It’s natural to be apprehensive about new technologies, especially when they have the potential to change the way we’ve always done things. But I encourage all of us to reframe our perspective: AI is a tool, one that enhances, not replaces. With the proper regulation, every doctor, nurse, and healthcare professional could benefit from this ‘extra set of eyes’. AI’s ability to analyze vast amounts of data quickly and accurately can assist in diagnosis, predict health risks, and even personalize treatment plans. Data helps you make changes to maximize the return.
This isn’t just a small step forward; it’s a huge leap towards precision. It removes any biases, or preconceived notions. It’s data, and data doesn’t lie.
Data for Prevention: The Earlier, The Better
With DexaFit DX we are already using AI to help detect early signs of coronary artery disease and other chronic diseases. With a quick 7 minute scan, DexaFit DX, will detect the leading chronic diseases responsible for more than two-thirds of all deaths annually. This is a perfect example of AI creating a shift in medical diagnostics…for the better. But, it still comes down to the individual. Everyone reading this knows someone taken too soon by the "widow maker"... DexaFit AI has eyes on something that your doctor isn't paying attention to unless you're having symptoms.You have to want to know what’s going on in your body - the resources are there, so go get scanned.
In healthcare, data is more than just numbers and statistics; it’s the roadmap to understanding a patient’s health journey. And I’ve always said, if you can measure it you can manage it. It’s important for us to know what’s happening in our body and what we can do to contribute in a positive way. This data-driven approach helps us make informed changes that maximize patient outcomes. It’s about getting the right treatment to the right patient at the right time.
We All Need a Second Set of Eyes
Healthcare is complex and multifaceted. By integrating AI, we’re not just adding another perspective; we’re opening the door to a many insights that can inform better care strategies. This is crucial in a time when healthcare systems are stretched so thin and resources are limited. AI can help prioritize cases, manage resources more efficiently, and even support mental health by reducing burnout among healthcare providers.
It’s an exciting time for healthcare and it will be interesting to watch the industry evolve and technology continues to get smarter, and we continue to get smarter with how we embrace technology.