In a recent interview, Prof Andrew Elder, President of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, underscored that those with Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills will thrive in future and in advantageous positions. Prof Elder emphasized that while AI will not entirely replace the role of doctors, practitioners equipped with AI skills will be in a significant advantageous position compared to their counterparts. Further, he stressed the medical fraternity to abreast with the path-breaking technological revolution in the field of medicine.
Prof Elder is of the strong opinion that AI technology will speed-up diagnosis for quicker decision making & ultimately reducing the time required for comprehensive patient treatment. He stated that the application of human judgment will persist even with the integration of AI into medical practices.
“The advantages of AI would be so great that a doctor who says ‘I am not using AI at all’ will not be as able in his practice as a doctor who uses AI. Too often, we think about humans against technology, and sometimes humans or technology. It should be human with technology,” stated Prof Elder. He emphasized that AI is unlikely to completely replace medical professionals.
On the topic of drug manufacturing, Prof Elder commended AI’s contribution to quick vaccine development during the COVID-19 pandemic. He pointed out that AI played a crucial role in narrowing down molecule selections & expediting the vaccine development process.
He stressed the importance of involving professionals with a deep understanding of patient care and medical science in the development of AI applications for healthcare. However, Prof Elder cautioned against the potential threats of AI usage in healthcare, especially if developed by untrained individuals without medical expertise.
The collaborative approach of combining human expertise with technological advancements is advocated by Prof. Elder to ensure the responsible and beneficial use of AI in the field of medicine. Prof. Elder has been with National Health Services of UK for over 28 Years.
