Breakthroughs in sensor technology combined with ever greater processing power make it possible for increasingly large amounts of patient health data to be recorded in real time. Information can now be automatically collected, transmitted and evaluated. It can also be incorporated into electronic health records and used by medical professionals or smart apps.

AI searches for relevant information

Artificial intelligence in the form of self-teaching, pattern-recognition software can filter out health-relevant data from this mountain of individual information. The applications compare this data with other medical findings, for example from imaging procedures such as X-rays or computer tomography, analyze them in light of medical literature and recent studies, and then make diagnoses and recommendations for treatment. Smart algorithms also help to discover and develop new drugs and therapies faster and more efficiently.

Importantly, machines are not being used to replace doctors and nursing staff. On the contrary, smart data analytics and AI apps are revolutionizing processes and procedures in hospitals and surgeries to help physicians.
With medical professionals in short supply around the world, and an aging population putting greater pressure on healthcare systems, the need for smart helpers will grow exponentially. Assisted by self-teaching assistants, physicians can not only maintain but improve quality, while patients will benefit from faster and better treatment.