On September 3, the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health discussed how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping health care. Many organizations, including the American Medical Association, advocate for AI’s role in improving patient care, surgical precision, and diagnostic accuracy.
At Florida State University, Professor Zhe He leads research on AI’s impact in health informatics. He emphasizes that AI helps analyze electronic health records and medical images, improving personalized treatment and efficiency. “AI extends clinicians’ capabilities,” He explains, helping to reduce delays and enhance care, especially in rural areas where access to specialists can be limited.
Delaney La Rosa, a teaching professor at the College of Nursing, focuses on ethical AI use in nursing. She notes that AI is particularly useful for early detection of medical issues, aiding in timely interventions. “AI can flag patients at risk of decline or severe conditions,” she says.
The conversation around AI in health care is not limited to technological advancements; it’s also about improving patient engagement. Professor He highlights three key areas for future development:
- Patient Engagement: Empowering individuals to understand their medical information.
- Chronic Disease Management: Using AI to predict risks and support caregivers.
- Clinical Research: Accelerating drug discovery and enhancing trial processes.
As health care increasingly adopts AI, training becomes vital. La Rosa points out that the College of Nursing is leading the way with innovative programs in health care AI, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared and ethically grounded in their practices.
In summary, AI is not just a tool; it’s a transformative force in health care. With ongoing advancements and education, it has the potential to significantly enhance patient outcomes and efficiency.
