MEDTECH
HEALTHCARE ‘ CONFLICTED ON DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION ’
When it comes to digital transformation , the healthcare industry is caught between a rock and a hard place , say healthcare analysts .
The potential of innovations in AI , data analytics and digitisation all have the promise to streamline administration , reduce patient waiting times , and ultimately boost patient outcomes – but the critical need to safeguard patient data limits the proliferation of these technologies .
Despite the optimism AI can offer , it is critical to remember that healthcare scenarios often involve complex and nuanced factors that may not be fully captured by AI algorithms alone , and healthcare decisions may have life-ordeath consequences .
As a consequence , say the experts , all the AI approaches to healthcare decisions require the human-in-theloop approach , where the inclusion of humans in the decision-making process ensures safety , accountability , ethical compliance , and a holistic approach to patient care , making it an indispensable component of AI-driven healthcare systems .
which obstruct the path to successful digital transformation .
“ Consequently , the anticipated benefits of digital initiatives remain largely untapped ,” he says . “ Presently , a majority of healthcare decisionmakers lack confidence in their digital transformation strategies to yield the expected business results .”
He adds that despite the high costs involved , almost half of healthcare leaders report no positive return on investment from their transformation efforts .
“ A significant portion of the funds allocated for digital-experience
96 September 2024