In the realm of healthcare, a new era is dawning – a realm where the synergy of artificial intelligence (AI) and medicine is reshaping the landscape.
The recent infusion of £21m by the UK Government to extend AI across NHS trusts heralds a transformative chapter.
And, as chief executive and founder of Proximie, a healthcare platform integrating AI and augmented reality, I am delighted to witness the growing recognition of AI’s transformative potential within the UK’s healthcare sector.
At Proximie, we have been at the forefront of this AI revolution, with our platform being used across 20% of NHS trusts.
Our platform serves as a vital tool for surgeons, augmenting their abilities and enhancing patient safety and we are observing two primary avenues for AI adoption within the NHS.
From identifying previously-undetected cancers, to aiding in the development of new medications, AI’s potential is vast
The first involves streamlining administrative processes, leading to higher productivity, consistent documentation, and faster transitions of patient care.
This not only optimises healthcare team efficiency, but also ensures better outcomes for patients, particularly those with complex conditions.
Transforming the landscape
The second application of AI in healthcare decision-making is more gradual, but equally transformative.
We foresee AI playing a pivotal role in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies.
From identifying previously-undetected cancers, to aiding in the development of new medications, AI’s potential is vast.
However, the majority of AI applications will focus on supporting clinicians and patients with targeted information to enhance decision-making quality.
The UK government’s vision of achieving full AI stroke-diagnosis coverage across the NHS by the close of 2023 places patient privacy at the forefront.
And respecting patient data privacy is a cornerstone of our mission.
The apprehension surrounding third-party exploitation of patient data underscores the critical need for safeguarding patient privacy and we have meticulously designed safeguards to ensure patient data is handled responsibly, and individuals retain the freedom to provide, or withhold, consent.
With substantial investments totalling £123m into 86 AI technologies across the NHS, the landscape of patient data privacy is set to evolve.
By communicating clearly, obtaining informed consent, and implementing strong legal and technical measures, we can mitigate potential risks.
The tool helps surgeons to improve their abilities and enhances patient safety
Ensuring transparency
Just as the vaccination campaign showcased the importance of accurate information, transparency, and individual choice, AI initiatives demand a similar commitment to ethical practices.
As the transformative force of AI permeates every facet of healthcare, one question remains paramount: How do we uphold patient data privacy while leveraging the full potential of AI?
The solution lies in clarity and consent.
By ensuring transparency in data usage, and providing individuals with the ability to grant or revoke consent, we pave the way for responsible AI integration.
By communicating clearly, obtaining informed consent, and implementing strong legal and technical measures, we can mitigate potential risks
Generative AI emerges as a game-changer in the healthcare narrative.
At Proximie, we envision a future where AI alleviates the burdens of information management, minimising errors, and optimising efficiency.
Imagine a realm where AI comprehends, and acts upon, human language queries – this is the future we are striving to create.
But, while AI’s role in healthcare is pivotal, it must align with the needs of healthcare professionals and patients.
At Proximie, we focus on simplicity, usability, and interoperability to foster acceptance and responsible data management.
By harnessing the power of AI to enhance surgical procedures, we contribute to raising healthcare standards globally.
The partnership between health tech companies and tech giants like Google offers exciting possibilities.
However, as we collaborate to advance healthcare, we must uphold patient data privacy.
I am filled with optimism about the endless possibilities AI holds for revolutionising patient care, global healthcare accessibility, and the very essence of the human experience in the realm of medicine
Preserving individual consent, respecting data boundaries, and ensuring patients remain the ultimate decision-makers are vital principles to uphold in this journey.
The dawn of AI in healthcare is upon us, promising unparalleled advancements.
With unwavering dedication to patient privacy, responsible data management, and innovative AI integration, we stand at the forefront of this transformative journey.
And, as we embark on this chapter, I am filled with optimism about the endless possibilities AI holds for revolutionising patient care, global healthcare accessibility, and the very essence of the human experience in the realm of medicine.
Together, we can propel healthcare into a future where technology serves humanity’s highest ideals.
Learn more about Dr Hachach-Haram’s vision of using AI to create the borderless operating room for the future at Digital Health’s AI and Data event on 30-31 October 2023
