“We need nurses involved in AI technology right now,” emphasized Maxim Topaz at the 2026 Kresge Center Lecture held on February 6 at Binghamton University. His call to action resonated with over 450 attendees, pointing to a crucial need for nursing professionals in the development of AI tools in healthcare.
Maxim Topaz is a leading figure in nursing and data science, working at Columbia University. His research aims to merge AI with healthcare to enhance patient care. With a focus on natural language processing, he seeks to simplify nursing documentation and improve overall healthcare delivery.
Topaz noted an alarming trend: over 40 million people consult ChatGPT daily for health advice, but studies show that AI can produce incorrect information up to 30% of the time. This indicates a significant risk when patients rely on AI for medical decisions.
Despite these challenges, Topaz remains optimistic. “If integrated properly, AI can help us make informed decisions,” he said. By using AI for data analysis, nurses can focus more on their patients, leaving the heavy lifting to technology.
However, the lack of nurse involvement in the creation of these AI systems is a concern. Topaz stressed that continuous input from nurses is essential for these tools to be effective and beneficial in real-world settings. “Without nurses involved in the process, these technologies may not serve our needs or those of our patients,” he stated.
Post-keynote, Topaz moderated a panel featuring respected experts in the nursing and AI fields, including Ann Fronczek from Binghamton’s Decker College, Laura-Maria Peltonen from Finland, and Meghan Reading Turchioe from Columbia University. They discussed pressing issues such as patient privacy and the ethical implications of using AI in healthcare.
A recent law in Oregon underscores these concerns, as it prohibits nonhuman entities from using the title “nurse.” This move highlights fears that AI might dilute critical human qualities like empathy and nuanced decision-making in patient care.
One significant takeaway from the discussions was the importance of having nurses involved in technology decisions. As AI continues to transform the healthcare landscape, their expertise is crucial in selecting and implementing AI tools that support, rather than hinder, patient care.
The event also included a poster session showcasing research projects from Binghamton University and its healthcare partners, further illustrating the growing intersection of technology and nursing. This collaboration emphasizes the critical role of nurses in shaping the future of healthcare, particularly as AI becomes more integrated into daily practice.
AI’s potential in nursing is immense. Yet, as these experts have made clear, the best outcomes will arise when technology is guided by those who understand the human side of care—nurses.
