Picture this: A planet where futuristic technology intersects with the problems of healthcare, transforming medical practices, while it destroys the concept of inequality in less developed countries. The challenge lies between the inequality in AI advancements and distribution when less developed countries are left behind when it comes to funding. While certain areas have futuristic technologies which further advance medical practices, the main problem is that some regions lack these technologies where individuals with compromised health are at risk. It is important that the government considers funding initiatives to ensure that AI is equally accessible in healthcare globally.
My dedication to healthcare roots back to my personal connection to healthcare– inspired by my mothers dedication to this field, which allows me to withhold a unique perspective on the intricacies of healthcare. The implementation of AI technologies closes the gap in healthcare by providing data analysis, virtual training programs, simplified diagnostics, and gives support when there is a scarcity in professionals or resources.
When advocating for the distribution of AI, it’s clear that the government has the funds to support these countries. While educational institutions and other companies like Google Health have made praisable efforts to fund these countries, the government’s involvement plays a crucial role in organizing the scattered progress made by smaller companies into something with large impact and is able to establish AI infrastructure in healthcare.
In fact, The World Health Organization emphasizes that all pregnant individuals should receive prenatal ultrasounds, but half of these developing regions still do not. Everyday nearly 800 women die of preventable causes related to childbirth. Research has shown that AI can help expand access and AI models are able to perform just as well as healthcare professionals. The heartbreaking reality of the lives that are lost daily is utterly inexcusable, particularly when the solution lies between the government’s fingertips.
To receive an ultrasound, patients must go to a facility with a certified technician, then the sonograph must go to a radiologist for interpretation. Due to a lack in transportation, facilities, and health professionals it can be a large barrier between less developed countries.
A remarkable initiative made by Google Health in partnership with NorthWestern’s School of Medicine developed a “low cost, battery operated handheld ultrasound device” so workers can operate this machine with minimal training. This strengthens the evolution of healthcare in less developed countries. The images are uploaded onto a smart phone and with the use of AI, it quickly interprets the gestational age and the fetal position.
Achieving healthcare fairness through AI in less developed countries relies on government intervention. By setting aside funds and establishing a supportive base, the government is able to improve the AI integration in these countries. This expresses the potential and innovative solutions made by smaller companies, therefore the government can take lead by implementing these initiatives so they can ensure that AI technologies in healthcare can be accessible to all. Ultimately, it can pave a way for a more efficient, inclusive, and flexible healthcare system.
