Artificial intelligence (AI) has been a technology industry buzzword for decades, and as AI continues to mature, significant applications for its use are finally becoming reality. One area hoping to see real benefits from AI is the world of healthcare.
While improving the quality of patient care remains the ultimate goal of using artificial intelligence, opportunities also abound for technology companies and their workers. Let’s take a closer look at the increasing role of artificial intelligence in the healthcare industry. Perhaps it will inspire a new direction in your technology career or a new product idea for your IT organization?
The Fast Growing Market for AI in Healthcare
A 2016 study by the research and consulting firm, Frost and Sullivan, predicts the market for AI in healthcare will expand to $6.6 billion by 2021 – a growth rate of 40 percent. The study also forecasts medical imaging diagnoses will become more accurate, with hospital workflows seeing a similar boost in efficacy, as AI supports the clinical process. Most importantly, patient outcomes are expected to improve by 30 to 40 percent, while costs are cut by half.
Improving Medical Diagnosis using AI
Multiple technology companies are working on mobile apps leveraging AI to diagnose patients. These chatbots are expected to provide an extra layer to prevent the unwarranted use of emergency rooms. The UK-based Babylon Health as well as Ada – with offices in Berlin and London – are just two of the firms working on this innovative technology.
Dr. Joseph Reger, CTO, Fujitsu EMEIA, commented on these apps combining AI, mobile tech, and healthcare. “The news that Babylon Health has raised near £50M to build an ‘AI doctor’ is a promising development for the health industry; trials are currently ongoing in London, where Babylon’s tech is being used as an alternative to the non-emergency 111 number,” said Reger.
Artificial intelligence continues to make inroads in healthcare all over the world. Hospitals in China are leveraging AI to improve the analysis of CT scans and X-rays to identify cancer within patients. Machine learning also helps the AI understand a variety of medical processes, with an eye towards eventually being able to predict future diseases before they occur.
Ultimately, AI won’t take jobs away from medical professionals. Instead, expect their efforts to be supported, with improved patient care as a result. Needless to say, the opportunities for interested tech professionals are also numerous.
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