AI-Augmented Patient Care: Pros and Cons

In healthcare, artificial intelligence (AI) has shown promise in both clinical and administrative applications. Increasing use of AI algorithms and tools, therefore, could provide a wide range of benefits particularly in improving patient care, reducing burden on providers and increasing resource efficiency at hospitals, says a new report.

Moreover, healthcare AI technology is also poised to help augment patient care outside traditional clinical settings. AI-enabled tools can also be deployed for health monitoring, intervention and promoting overall well-being beyond the walls of the hospital and clinic (i.e. the home), according to the report Artificial Intelligence in Health Care: Benefits and Challenges of Technologies to Augment Patient Care issued jointly by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) and National Academy of Medicine (NAM).

Clinical applications of AI that could enhance delivery of care include predicting health trajectories, recommending treatments, guiding surgical care, monitoring patients and supporting population health management. The report cites sepsis prediction tools as a good example, adding that AI-enabled surgical robots are already in the early stages of development.