
AI is everywhere; we see it in almost every aspect of life today. If you listen to podcasts you are likely to listen to someone who doesn’t even exist! Fast forward to healthcare, don’t get nervous, its good news as machine learning can be used for early diagnoses! In a recent study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, machine learning-based early warning systems were used in a general internal medicine unit of an academic medical center. The implementation of this system was associated with lower risk of non-palliative death than in the pre-intervention period. How interesting is that?
Not to be outdone by our acute care brethren, bring on the role of technology in supporting senior care administrators! The common UTI and dementia misdiagnosis is where innovations in technology, specifically artificial intelligence (AI), help provide insight to augment medical expertise. Technology is now enabling care professionals to identify subtle changes in behavior that may signal a long-term issue such as a UTI well before a test is necessary.
These two diagnoses are inextricably linked based on overlapping symptoms. One of the most significant and obvious overlapping symptoms is a sudden increase in confusion. Researchers have developed sensors that combine AI and body-heat-sensing technology that understand subtle movements in a room or a hallway without requiring the use of cameras or other devices that may compromise privacy. The sensors can help staff recognize an increase in frequency when it comes to a resident’s bathroom habits which can signal a UTI. The sensors can also be alerted to wandering incidents which can signal cognitive decline.
How lucky are we? We live in a time when innovation in technology, especially AI, are making significant strides in helping providers plan more efficiently and respond more proactively to changes! Stay well and stay informed!