Do we need another reason to talk about generative AI’s impact on healthcare?

In the heart of Orlando, amid the buzzing atmosphere of HIMSS 24, I am looking forward to hosting a focus group, Tuesday, March 12 at 11 am on a topic that’s on everyone’s lips: generative AI in healthcare. Do we need another reason to talk about it---definitely.

?Healthcare decision-makers are increasingly realizing the vast potential of Gen AI and are channeling investments into this burgeoning field, albeit slowly. However, amidst the excitement, discussions also acknowledge the challenges that accompany this technological revolution and in some cases are holding practitioners back from getting started.

Everyone knows cybersecurity is an issue in healthcare. But with the advent of generative AI, veracity is, too. In addition to making data secure, we also need to know where it’s coming from, who owns it, and how it was produced. We need to know: can we trust it?

But how does one reimagine existing processes to ensure transparency, trustworthiness, and rapid accessibility of data?

To fully embrace the capabilities of Gen AI, healthcare organizations must navigate the terrain of establishing robust data and AI foundations. Issues such as fairness, bias, and data security loom large, demanding thoughtful consideration and proactive measures. This journey requires not only the deployment of tailored large language models but also the cultivation of a skilled workforce adept at harnessing these tools for maximum benefit.

These questions and more are at the heart of our discussions, for the actions we take today will shape the standards of tomorrow.

To address the pressing workforce crisis, Gen AI emerges as a powerful ally. Automation of tasks such as appointment scheduling, patient record management, and insurance claims processing alleviates the burden on healthcare staff, allowing them to focus on delivering quality care where it's needed most. We know that are not enough people in the workforce, so we have to figure out how to give them time back to serve more patients. Writing and reading take up an enormous amount of time and Gen AI is the first real tool that can take over those tasks. We estimate as much as 30% of tasks can be shifted to automation.

This shift will come with challenges – some are known, and some are unknown. In all cases, however, the answers will need to be learned by the clinical teams as the work evolves, rather than simply following a protocol. For example, if routine, relatively easy tasks are all handled by machines or less trained colleagues, clinician jobs will be more difficult since they will be left entirely with harder tasks which rob them of opportunities for cognitive breaks. This phenomenon has been demonstrated in other jobs even without the use of technology. Thus, workdays may need to be reimagined. But the solution won’t be the same for everyone. Given this limitation, attaining that 30% shift to automation is unlikely, but getting even halfway there – 15% - will solve the access gap.

Yet, amidst the promise of progress, it's imperative to tread carefully. Responsible and equitable use of new digital technologies, particularly Gen AI, is paramount. The urgency of this matter is underscored by the overwhelming consensus among healthcare professionals for purposeful innovation. Consumers, too, demand accountability, with a significant majority emphasizing the importance of developing responsible guidelines on biometric privacy and neurotech ethics.

Many healthcare businesses don’t know where to begin. We've found that only 6% of organizations have built a responsible AI foundation and put their principles into practice. This underscores the need for continued dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders.

The future of Gen AI in healthcare is undeniably bright, with the potential to revolutionize patient care, drive cost efficiencies, and streamline administrative processes. Yet, realizing this vision requires a concerted effort, uniting healthcare providers, technology companies, and policymakers in a shared commitment to ethical innovation. How can we ensure this commitment?

?The Gen AI in healthcare conversation is as robust as ever. Join us at HIMSS 24 as we delve deeper into these critical issues with industry experts and practitioners navigating the complexities of adoption and the transformative impact that lies ahead. Together, let's ensure that AI is not just a tool but a force for good, enriching the lives of patients and the healthcare ecosystem while minimizing risks along the way.

Mark your calendars and join the conversation at our focus group on Tuesday, March 12 at 11 am. Together, let's continue the conversation to learn and shape the future of healthcare.

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