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Innovative healthcare & alternative remedies


6 OCTOBER 2019 • HEALTHCARE INNOVATIONS


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AI in the NHS F


or most of us, the words artificial intelligence (AI) conjure up images of robots or computer villains, but AI is


more about personalised technology. Amazingly, it’s already helping us in our daily lives, such as our interactions with the NHS. Here, computer programmes are


used to suggest pathways that can save time or money — although these can be overruled by a human. Successful schemes so far include


a system at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London, which was able to make the correct referral decision for more than 50 eye diseases with 94% accuracy, matching the world’s best eye experts.


GP SURGERIES Closer to home, AI-based software Echo means you can now receive reminders to your phone if your prescription is due for renewal. It uses machine-learning abilities to recognise both the instruction — such as to take two tablets a day — and what’s known about the medication prescribed. You’d then get personalised reminders via email or its app. For instance, statin (used to lower cholesterol) reminders would


Artificial intelligence is already being used across the UK. Gina Clarke looks at how it’s being implemented and the benefits to patients and practitioners


come through in the evening as this is the recommended time to take them, unless your GP’s has said otherwise.


OUT OF HOURS SERVICES One thing AI is great at is using large amounts of data to find patterns and make predictions. Tis is how the Partnership of East London Cooperatives (PELC), which serves more than two million people across East London and West Essex, is currently managing its NHS 111 and GP Out of Hours services. It can dynamically predict staffing


requirements in order to minimise patient requirements and even uses social media to help doctors to recognise illnesses. PELC’s CEO, Brian Jones, says:


“What many people don’t see is that AI is already part of the NHS. While there are really interesting clinical solutions being trialled, AI and other smart platforms are already helping us improve the services we deliver for the NHS and, ultimately, the individual’s patient experience. We use AI to predict demand for service, and then allocate our people to the busiest locations while also routing patients in order to minimise waiting times.”


DIABETES For the 3.5 million people in the UK living with diabetes, AI could completely personalise the way they tackle dietary requirements through the Low Carb Program. Te platform took real user experiences from the diabetes.co.uk forum and created a digital equivalent that currently allows more than 425,000 members access to 12 weeks of tailored nutrition-focused education. Participants are then encouraged


to make behaviour changes based on ‘action points’ or behaviour- change goals at the end of each module. Tese goals are supported with resources that are available to download including information sheets, recipes and suggested food substitution ideas. AI is used to encourage adherence to the platform through personalising recipes and meal plans users receive based on dietary preferences, allergies,


ethnicity and budget. Te use of data enables the platform to intelligently provide a precise experience to patients. It’s estimated that one in four people who have completed the programme are now in remission and leading healthier lives.


SURGERY SCHEDULING When it comes to planning surgical procedures, in order to minimise cancelled appointments, AI is helping NHS trusts such as South Tees to reduce waiting times. By using SpaceFinder, a product from Edge Health that can be implemented into existing software, the technology estimates how long a procedure will take and fits other surgeries accordingly — similar to the game Tetris. On average, up to two hours of operating time per theatre per day is currently unused, whereas this software can maximise the time. It also works to eliminate weekend procedures, which tend to cost more. However, it’s important to note


AI is helping NHS trusts such as South Tees to reduce waiting times


that with the majority of today’s technology, humans still get the final say. So, if a date isn’t convenient or a patient needs extra medication for a holiday, then that will always be taken into consideration.


FUTURE CONSIDERATIONS Te NHS has committed to further resources that use artificial intelligence across various trusts. Most of the initiatives above were given the green light through a Digital Health Accelerator programme, which has been running since 2015. Te accelerator works with 20 to 30 start-ups and SME innovators each year and has resulted in almost £76m in savings for the NHS so far. Tara Donnelly, chief digital officer


at NHSX, a unit forwarding digital transformation in the NHS, says: “Te DigitalHealth.London Accelerator is part of a long overdue digital revolution in the NHS. We must create a system whereby healthtech innovators are supported and can really feel our commitment to them and their groundbreaking work. Tis programme does just that, plus it supports the NHS and social care to make the most of the digital opportunity available.” And in June, NHS chief executive


Simon Stevens announced a global call for evidence looking at how AI can help in its long-term plan, but don’t be surprised if your local trust is already using it.


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