While some results have shown AI’s ability to save time and money for health systems, more research is needed to definitively prove its capabilities, according to the institute.
“AI can automate assessments and tasks that humans currently can do but take a lot of time,” said Hugo Aerts, PhD, of Harvard Medical School. “AI is great at doing this — at going beyond human performance for a lot of tasks.”
However, many researchers and medical professionals are wary of the technology. The “black box” issue of AI worries physicians, as they often do not understand how algorithms reached their decision, opening up the possibility of bias and error.
Other experts worry that AI will serve to exacerbate health disparities and medical bias that is ingrained in our systems given that previous studies have shown that medical AI is less accurate in Black patients. Securing the longevity of AI algorithms is also an issue as the tech they’re built on may become obsolete or evolve.
Although there are many hurdles to be overcome, some researchers believe that with increased collaboration between scientists, physicians and government, AI will find its place in the clinic.
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