Artificial intelligence has the potential to convert vast amounts of data into actionable knowledge, promising significant advancements in patient care and research, according to Sachin Kheterpal, MD, MBA, professor of anesthesiology and associate dean for research information technology at the University of Michigan Medical School.
By rapidly processing data, providers can gain early alerts and insights that humans might miss, Kheterpal noted.
Kheterpal highlighted AI’s potential during a recent interview conducted by JAMA Editor-in-Chief Kirsten Bibbins-Domingo, PhD, MD, MAS.
Another significant benefit of AI is its ability to enhance the workload and efficiency of healthcare systems, he added.
Kheterpal discussed the potential of AI in wearable devices and sensors that collect health data from patients in their daily lives. These devices provide continuous monitoring, giving clinicians a more comprehensive understanding of a patient’s health over time, he said. For example, wearables that track blood pressure, step counts, and other metrics can help clinicians identify trends and make more informed decisions during check-ups.
Integrating AI into healthcare is not without challenges, however, Kheterpal cautioned. One of the main hurdles is ensuring that the data collected are used effectively to drive patient outcomes. This requires focusing on both the quantitative and qualitative aspects of data, as well as understanding the patient’s context and lived experience. He emphasized the importance of involving non-technologists, ethicists, patient advocates and change management experts in the development and implementation of AI solutions to ensure they are adopted effectively and ethically.
Looking to the future, Kheterpal said he is optimistic about the mainstream acceptance of AI in healthcare. Patients are increasingly expecting technology to enhance their healthcare experiences, mirroring its impact on other aspects of their lives. However, he warned against excessive hype and stressed the importance of managing expectations. He advocated for a balanced approach that combines technological advancements with qualitative insights to create meaningful improvements in patient care.
The full JAMA interview can be viewed here.
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