Healing hands of tech: AI set to revolutionise healthcare

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as a powerful tool in healthcare, enhancing patient care, treatment planning and operational efficiency in Himachal Pradesh. However, ensuring data security, privacy and fairness in clinical validation remains a significant challenge.

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With limited access to healthcare facilities in remote areas, AI can play a crucial role in bridging the healthcare gap. Himachal Pradesh should take the lead in integrating AI into its health services to improve accessibility and efficiency. “Providing appropriate healthcare in rural areas often requires long-distance transportation. While dispensaries and primary health centres exist, diagnostic and specialty services remain largely unavailable,” emphasised Dr Sanjay Aggarwal, a laparoscopic surgeon from Solan who has successfully implemented AI in his hospital for various medical applications.

Dr Aggarwal pointed out that medical personnel posted in rural areas may not always be trained in specialised care. AI can assist by providing decision-making support and real-time medical insights. However, he cautioned that AI adoption in healthcare comes with challenges, including ethical considerations and the need for strict regulatory frameworks.

“Data security, privacy and fairness in clinical validation are major concerns. Additionally, education and training of healthcare professionals must be prioritised to ensure the smooth integration of AI into medical practice,” he said. Dr Aggarwal emphasised that AI is not a replacement for medical expertise but an advanced tool that can significantly enhance healthcare delivery.

AI applications have already demonstrated remarkable results in multiple areas. AI-powered machine learning algorithms, natural language processing and predictive analytics are improving diagnostic accuracy. Memory neural networks are now capable of interpreting medical imaging, such as X-rays, MRIs and CT scans, with high precision. This assists radiologists in early detection of diseases, leading to timely and accurate diagnoses.

Beyond diagnostics, AI is improving disease progression monitoring and outcome prediction. By analyzing electronic health records, genomes, and patient data, AI can assess risk factors and enable preventive interventions. It also facilitates virtual health assessments and robotic-assisted surgeries, ensuring greater surgical precision, efficiency, and safety.

One of the key benefits of AI in healthcare is its ability to optimise resources and reduce costs. “The optimal use of AI will help lower medical expenses and improve resource utilisation, thereby benefiting the economy,” Dr Aggarwal stressed. He also highlighted AI’s role in drug discovery, personalised medicine, and radiological imaging. AI-driven identification of new drug compounds and their optimal combinations could revolutionise treatment options, particularly for patients in remote areas.

The integration of AI in Himachal Pradesh’s healthcare system could bring significant advancements, particularly in oncology. Cancer patients would have access to the latest chemotherapy treatments and surgical services, improving survival rates and treatment outcomes.

Dr Aggarwal concluded by emphasising the importance of a balanced and standardised approach to AI in healthcare. “AI can ensure equitable treatment for all patients, preventing disparities in care. If we allocate resources towards AI development in Himachal Pradesh, it will undoubtedly transform healthcare in the state.”