AI – Does your Trust need it? Here’s how to get it right the first time IHUK22

At Intelligent Health UK 2022, some of Qure.ai's notable partners and clients shared their expertise & insights on evaluating & implementing Artificial Intelligence solutions in NHS Trust healthcare institutions. The eminent panellists included Dr. Hugh Harvey, Dr. Amrita Kumar, Emma Hughes, Dr. Garry Pettet and Matthew Watt. Some of the key topics covered:

Following the key topics covered, the panellists delved deeper into the practical aspects of AI adoption. They emphasized the importance of identifying the specific clinical challenges that AI can address within a healthcare institution. By clearly defining the problem and understanding the potential impact of AI, organizations can make informed decisions about which solutions are most suitable for their needs.

The panellists also discussed the critical factors to consider when choosing an AI solution. They highlighted the significance of evaluating the solution's clinical validation, regulatory compliance, and alignment with the institution's existing workflows and infrastructure. Engaging with vendors who have a proven track record of successful implementations and a deep understanding of the healthcare domain was deemed essential.

Once a suitable AI solution has been identified, the panellists emphasized the importance of involving key stakeholders in the adoption process. This includes clinicians, IT departments, information governance (IG) teams, and patient representatives. By fostering collaboration and open communication among these stakeholders, healthcare institutions can ensure a smooth and successful integration of AI into clinical practice.

The panellists also provided guidance on evaluating and procuring AI solutions. They stressed the need to assess the return on investment (RoI) by considering factors such as improved patient outcomes, increased efficiency, and cost savings. Engaging with procurement teams early in the process and understanding the requirements for data privacy, security, and interoperability was deemed crucial.

Furthermore, the panellists highlighted the importance of ongoing monitoring and evaluation of AI solutions post-implementation. By establishing clear metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs), healthcare institutions can assess the impact of AI on clinical outcomes, operational efficiency, and patient satisfaction. Regular feedback loops and continuous improvement processes were recommended to ensure the long-term success and sustainability of AI adoption.

Throughout the discussion, the panellists emphasized the need for a holistic approach to AI implementation. This involves not only the technical aspects but also the cultural and organizational changes required to support the integration of AI into clinical workflows. Providing adequate training and support for healthcare professionals, as well as engaging patients and the wider community, was considered essential for building trust and confidence in AI-enabled healthcare.

The insights shared by the panellists at Intelligent Health UK 2022 provide a roadmap for NHS Trust healthcare institutions embarking on their AI journey. By carefully evaluating clinical needs, selecting appropriate solutions, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring ongoing monitoring and improvement, healthcare organizations can successfully harness the power of AI to enhance patient care, improve operational efficiency, and drive innovation in healthcare delivery.

As the adoption of AI in healthcare continues to gain momentum, the experiences and best practices shared by the panelists serve as valuable guidance for NHS Trust healthcare institutions. By learning from the successes and challenges of early adopters, organizations can navigate the complexities of AI implementation and unlock the full potential of this transformative technology in improving patient outcomes and advancing healthcare delivery.