Artificial Intelligence: Review of Current and Future Applications in Medicine

L Brannon Thomas; Stephen M Mastorides; Narayan A Viswanadhan; Colleen E Jakey; Andrew A Borkowski

doi:10.12788/fp.0174

Artificial Intelligence: Review of Current and Future Applications in Medicine

Fed Pract. 2021 Nov;38(11):527-538. doi: 10.12788/fp.0174.

Authors

L Brannon Thomas^{1

2}, Stephen M Mastorides^{1

2}, Narayan A Viswanadhan¹, Colleen E Jakey^{1

2}, Andrew A Borkowski^{1

2}

Affiliations

¹ James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, Florida.
² University of South Florida, Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa.

Abstract

Background: The role of artificial intelligence (AI) in health care is expanding rapidly. Currently, there are at least 29 US Food and Drug Administration-approved AI health care devices that apply to numerous medical specialties and many more are in development.

Observations: With increasing expectations for all health care sectors to deliver timely, fiscally-responsible, high-quality health care, AI has potential utility in numerous areas, such as image analysis, improved workflow and efficiency, public health, and epidemiology, to aid in processing large volumes of patient and medical data. In this review, we describe basic terminology, principles, and general AI applications relating to health care. We then discuss current and future applications for a variety of medical specialties. Finally, we discuss the future potential of AI along with the potential risks and limitations of current AI technology.

Conclusions: AI can improve diagnostic accuracy, increase patient safety, assist with patient triage, monitor disease progression, and assist with treatment decisions.

Publication types

Review