Technology is reshaping how doctors treat patients, making healthcare more patient-focused and holistic. This transformation, driven by new tools and artificial intelligence (AI), was a key topic at the Future Healthcare Summit.
Experts highlighted how these advancements are making disease management more efficient and freeing up doctors to focus on patient care.
Streamlining Patient Interaction
According to Brian de Francesca, CEO of Al Sharq Healthcare, new technology can significantly reduce doctors’ administrative tasks. “Currently, doctors spend too much time noting down symptoms and patient comments,” he said. “A new system using 12 microphones in the clinic will record and transcribe everything automatically. This will reduce the doctors’ burden and let them focus more on the patient.”
Brian shared insights at the Future Healthcare Summit held at the JW Marriott Hotel in Dubai Marina. The forum brought together healthcare professionals to discuss the industry’s challenges and opportunities.
AI: A Game Changer in Healthcare
Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing healthcare in multiple ways. Christian Schuhmacher, Chairman of Emirates Hospitals Group, emphasized how AI can enhance patient history management. “AI and machine learning will help document patient history better,” he explained. “Wearables, combined with AI, can even predict diseases months or years before they become severe. Doctors will become health and wellness managers rather than just treating illnesses.”
He also pointed out a key challenge: making sense of the massive data available. “We are data-rich but insight-poor,” Schuhmacher said. “AI can analyze data, such as changes in heart rate, and recommend actions like taking a break. Wearables will play a big role in adapting patient behavior based on this data.”
Balancing Benefits and Risks
While the benefits of AI in healthcare are immense, experts also highlighted potential risks. Dr. Riaz Khan, Chief Strategy Officer at Hosmac Middle East, warned about over-reliance on AI. He explained that while AI can provide informed diagnoses by comparing global data, it must complement doctors, not replace them.
“For instance, if a patient shows specific symptoms, AI might suggest using an MRI instead of a CT scan. That’s helpful. But if AI overrides the doctor’s judgment entirely, it could lead to chaos,” he said. “Decision-makers must avoid cost-cutting measures that remove human expertise in favor of technology.”
Ethical Concerns with Gene Editing
Brian de Francesca also highlighted the ethical concerns surrounding technologies like CRISPR, which enable gene editing. “While this can eliminate genetic diseases, it also opens doors to biological warfare,” he cautioned.
As healthcare continues to evolve with technology, balancing innovation with ethical practices remains crucial. These advancements promise better care but must be implemented thoughtfully to ensure safety and effectiveness.
