“AI is here”: AI in Healthcare Symposium Recap
BY ALEX JOHNSON
On October 18 the Hariri Institute hosted a virtual symposium on AI in Healthcare: Mitigating Disparities, Biases, and Misinformation, co-sponsored by the Center for Information & Systems Engineering, the School of Public Health, and the College of Communication Division of Emerging Media Studies. This event brought together all different kinds of experts, from physicians, to leaders in the field of technology, to social media specialists. Panels of experts discussed the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and other novel technologies in the healthcare system, and how to ensure that these novel programs and tools contribute to a system that is equitable and does not spread untrue information.
A phrase repeated throughout the event by multiple speakers was “AI is not coming, it’s here,” as experts discussed how to improve current algorithms being used in the healthcare industry. Current datasets are now known to contain many biases and disenfranchise minority groups. Solutions to this problem revolve around publicizing and diversifying datasets to ensure that algorithms gain the correct depth and breadth of information to learn from, according to the panelists. The speakers also discussed how using differential privacy to release sensitive datasets to the public will play a large role in correcting algorithms, as it allows specific information to be further studied and biased trends to be identified.
The importance of empowering both healthcare professionals and patients was also mentioned by several panelists. They stated that making sure healthcare providers have a workable knowledge of the technology that they are using is critical. Ensuring that the patient is a part of every step of the process is also vital for ensuring a better system as more advanced technologies are incorporated.
AI as a tool for positive change was also discussed throughout the sessions. Experts cited it as an invaluable tool to revolutionize medical procedures and make healthcare safer and more accessible for all. They mention that we are at a sort of precipice with healthcare, with exciting possibilities for AI down the road, but we must ensure that they are fair and equitable for all.
The role of technology spreading misinformation in the healthcare industry was also discussed, as specialists tried to discern how to deal with a phenomenon that is pervasive and potentially damaging. Insights were shared on the link between misinformation and COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy. Speakers said learning to identify key entities that have poor data and fact checking systems, and working to insert experts into these communities that serve them are key pieces to preventing the spread of misinformation. They warn that preventing the distribution of false information becomes complicated when social media begins to play a role, as most platforms have goals associated with keeping viewers on their site, as opposed to presenting information that is accurate and helpful.
Ideas for further discussion include how to create concrete and actionable ways to make AI algorithms less biased, how to empower both patients and healthcare workers to use this technology, and how to mitigate potential misinformation problems that can happen on technology platforms.
The entire symposium can be found on the Hariri Institute’s YouTube page for individuals who wish to learn more the topics and issues discussed.