How AI and Machine Learning are Changing Medicine by Duane Boise

Technology has always brought changes to the field of medicine. It has led to sterile techniques, new tools for procedures, better medications, and even enhanced communication between individuals hundreds of miles apart. New technology continues to influence medicine, and artificial intelligence is further expanding the boundaries of what physicians can do. From stroke to hearts, machine learning is helping doctors diagnose more accurately and helping patients have better outcomes.

Artificial intelligence can be applied to electrocardiography, a widely available tool, to aid clinicians in diagnosing heart conditions. The machine uses the output of the ECG machine to learn what abnormalities are present and bring them to the awareness of the medical team. This is done through the creation of algorithms, which are essentially a set of rules to follow to reach a conclusion.

One type of stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, can be quickly diagnosed using artificial intelligence. Through the development of algorithms, machines can quickly analyze a CAT scan so doctors can quickly identify and treat stroke. This will help save precious time in treating this potentially fatal condition, and it will likely save lives.

The field of radiology is rapidly incorporating artificial intelligence into the practice. Radiologists are more often taking courses that teach them how to utilize machine learning in their practice to augment their skills as diagnosticians. Together, artificial intelligence and radiologists will have a much higher rate of correct diagnoses and a much higher rate of positive patient outcomes.

The goal of synthesizing the practice of medicine with artificial intelligence is not to replace doctors or nurses. Without the aspect of humanity, patients would likely not have positive outcomes, even with machines that provide correct diagnoses and treatments with near perfection. The primary goal is for medical professionals to combine their knowledge with the knowledge provided by artificial intelligence to help save lives.

The field of medicine is, out of necessity, a constantly changing one. As new technology is innovated and new science is discovered, medical professionals must be able to adapt to these changes for their patients. Without this ability, there is little point in practicing medicine. Artificial intelligence has a great deal of promise in helping patients, and many doctors are excited to use this tool to further enhance their practice. When properly used, artificial intelligence will revolutionize the field of medicine.