As more and more benefits of artificial intelligence start to emerge, we see the impact on the medical industry. Here’s how AI is changing pathology.
Artificial Intelligence is not here to take over pathology or to correct human error. It is actually a tool that can aid pathologists in diagnosing patients quicker, with less variability.
There are several benefits to artificial intelligence, however, up until now, the medical field has seen limited use for it.
Benefits of Artificial Intelligence
Put simply, artificial intelligence can learn and grow. Meaning it won’t make the same mistake twice and everything it does is a learning experience.
Because AI is basically a machine, computer, program (however you’d like to look at it), it can streamline the process of diagnosing disease.
For example, with cancer, the way to diagnose is to put a sample under a microscope and examine it against other slides with cancer cells.
AI does the same but at a much faster pace. It doesn’t have to worry about slides or microscopes, as it’s all in neatly organized files. Of course, with human aid.
Saving Lives
The great thing about Artificial Intelligence is that it can act as a second opinion. AI can give a patient a second opinion that same day. It will be independent of the doctor’s but will confirm or deny what they’ve just said.
This means that a patient will not have to wait to set a new appointment, see a second pathologist, and get more results.
In pressing cases where time is of the essence, this could mean saving their life. Not having to wait means more time for treatment. If the condition is terminal, more time with their loved ones without worrying about if a diagnosis is correct.
Making Sense
The fact is, diagnostic errors can be deadly — up to 10% of patient deaths can be related to a misdiagnosis. A second opinion is often needed. But human error can happen to anyone.
The benefits of artificial intelligence are innumerable. Some doctors may be leery, but the science is there. It may seem as though society wants to replace pathologists, but this is not the case either.
While the prospect of AI is exciting, it may be a while before it is widely accepted and available. It is not trying to take over people’s lives or remove pathologists from their positions.
AI will never replace an actual, human doctor. But it will make their lives easier and allow them to concentrate their abilities on specific illnesses.
The benefits of artificial intelligence will also probably never outweigh the bedside manner of a kind doctor. However, it WILL allow more face time between doctors and patients.
A correct and fast second opinion could mean the difference between life or death. Having the ability to give or get a second opinion that same day, or within a few days will allow patients and doctors more freedom to start treatment and research.
Contact us today if you are interested in learning more about the benefits of artificial intelligence in the field of pathology.
