Artificial intelligence (AI) is an increasing presence in our daily lives, and it is making a big impact in the healthcare industry. With AI technology, providers can use data and predictive analytics to improve health outcomes for individual patients and at-risk populations. So, what is predictive analytics, and how does it work?
Predictive analytics in health care
The last decade has brought dramatic developments in healthcare technology, and AI has played a large role. AI has something of a scary reputation, but in reality, AI technology provides abundant opportunities for improving patient outcomes. One of the most significant benefits AI offers is predictive analytics.
Predictive analysis uses AI and machine learning (ML) to analyze a wide variety of data for assessing an individual’s or population’s risk for certain diseases or conditions. It helps providers make informed decisions about the best healthcare options for optimal patient outcomes.
Healthcare benefits from AI and predictive analytics
AI can automate routine tasks and free up healthcare workers to focus on patient care. It can also streamline billing cycles and improve decision making.
With predictive analytics, providers can determine which individuals and populations are most at risk from a given disease. They can also identify patients who are likely to skip appointments and reach out to them. Predictive analysis allows doctors to identify early warning signs of diseases before they become severe. In short, predictive analytics improve patient experiences and public health outcomes.
Predictive analytics does have its drawbacks. It treats patients as data points based on population averages and trends instead of as individuals with specific backgrounds, environmental determinants, and personal habits. To be effective, predictive analysis must factor in social determinants of health (SDOH). It also has the potential to create patient privacy issues, and providers are responsible for minimizing the risk of HIPAA violations.
Predictive analysis and AI are improving patient outcomes
Predictive analysis and AI are useful tools for improving patient care and outcomes. They help providers identify individuals at risk for certain conditions or predict patient risk for more severe effects from certain diseases (e.g., COVID-19). Providers are then able to employ early intervention strategies for the best possible outcome. Predictive analysis helps physicians determine how a patient will respond to treatment and allows for a quick response to alerts of potential negative results.
Healthcare technology provides much more than automation of routine tasks. Predictive analytics and AI are vital technologies for the diagnosis and treatment of patients. They improve patient experience and optimize care.
Coding and billing staff also assist providers and allow for more focus on patient care. If your healthcare staff is burdened with revenue cycle tasks, contact the professionals at TruBridge today.
Written by Anna Dioguardi
TruBridge Account Manager