Category: IT in Healthcare

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The Future of Healthcare Interoperability: Building a Stronger Foundation for Data Integration

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Henry Adams, Country Manager South Africa, InterSystems

Healthcare data is one of the most complex and valuable assets in the modern world. Yet, despite the wealth of digital health information being generated daily, many organisations still struggle to access, integrate, and use it effectively. The promise of data-driven healthcare – where patient records, research insights, and operational efficiencies seamlessly come together – remains just that: a promise. The challenge lies in interoperability.

For years, healthcare institutions have grappled with fragmented systems, disparate data formats, and evolving regulatory requirements. The question is no longer whether to integrate but how best to do it. Should healthcare providers build, rent, or buy their data integration solutions? Each approach has advantages and trade-offs, but long-term success depends on choosing a solution that balances control, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.

Why Interoperability Remains a Challenge

Despite significant advancements in standardisation, interoperability remains a persistent challenge in healthcare. A common saying in the industry – “If you’ve seen one HL7 interface, you’ve seen one HL7 interface” – illustrates the lack of uniformity across systems. Even FHIR, the latest interoperability standard, comes with many extensions and custom implementations, leading to inconsistency.

Henry Adams, Country Manager South Africa, InterSystems

Adding to this complexity, healthcare data must meet strict security, privacy, and compliance requirements. The need for real-time data exchange, analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) further increases the pressure on organisations to implement robust, scalable, and future-proof integration solutions.

The Build, Rent, or Buy Dilemma

When organisations decide how to approach interoperability, they typically weigh three options:

  • Building a solution from scratch offers full control but comes with high development costs, lengthy implementation timelines, and ongoing maintenance challenges. Ensuring compliance with HL7, FHIR, and other regulatory standards requires significant resources and expertise.
  • Renting an integration solution provides quick deployment at a lower initial cost but can lead to vendor lock-in, limited flexibility, and escalating costs as data volumes grow. Additionally, outsourced solutions may not prioritise healthcare-specific requirements, creating potential risks for compliance, security, and scalability.
  • Buying a purpose-built integration platform strikes a balance between control and flexibility. Solutions like InterSystems Health Connect and InterSystems IRIS for Health offer pre-built interoperability features while allowing organisations to customise and scale their integration as needed.

The Smart Choice: Owning Your Integration Future

To remain agile in an evolving healthcare landscape, organisations must consider the long-term impact of their integration choices. A well-designed interoperability strategy should allow for:

  • Customisation without complexity – Organisations should be able to tailor their integration capabilities without having to build from the ground up. This ensures they can adapt to new regulatory requirements and technological advancements.
  • Scalability without skyrocketing costs – A robust data platform should enable growth without the exponential cost increases often associated with rented solutions.
  • Security and compliance by design – Healthcare providers cannot afford to compromise on data privacy and security. A trusted interoperability partner should offer built-in compliance with international standards.

Some healthcare providers opt for platforms that combine pre-built interoperability with the flexibility to scale and customise as needed. For example, solutions designed to support seamless integration with electronic health records (EHRs), medical devices, and other healthcare systems can offer both operational efficiency and advanced analytics capabilities. The key is selecting an approach that aligns with both current and future needs, ensuring data remains accessible, secure, and actionable.

Preparing for the Future of Healthcare IT

As healthcare systems become more digital, the need for efficient, secure, and adaptable interoperability solutions will only intensify. The right integration strategy can determine whether an organisation thrives or struggles with inefficiencies, rising costs, and regulatory risks.

By choosing an approach that prioritises flexibility, control, and future-readiness, healthcare providers can unlock the full potential of their data – improving patient outcomes, driving operational efficiencies, and enabling innovation at scale.

The question isn’t just whether to build, rent, or buy – but how to create a foundation that ensures long-term success in healthcare interoperability.

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The Intersection of Innovation and Stability in Pharmacy Technology

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Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash


By Mthobisi Kgathi, Business Development Manager – Health & Retail Solutions, BCX

South Africa’s pharmacy sector is at a crossroads, navigating regulatory pressures, patient expectations, and the rapid shift to digital healthcare. While innovation promises efficiency and improved patient outcomes, stability remains critical—without it, even the most advanced technologies can fail.

Pharmacies are a cornerstone of South Africa’s healthcare system, providing essential medicines and bridging the gap between doctors and patients. As the industry embraces digitalisation, it must balance progress with reliability, accuracy, and compliance.

Challenges Facing Community Pharmacies

Community pharmacies operate in a competitive environment where operational reliability and strict regulatory adherence are non-negotiable. Key challenges include:

  • Regulatory Compliance: The South African Pharmacy Council (SAPC) enforces stringent rules on record-keeping, patient confidentiality, and dispensing protocols. Non-compliance risks fines, reputational damage, or closure.
  • Workforce Strain: Pharmacists face mounting workloads, managing high prescription volumes while maintaining care standards. Digital tools must ease their burden, not add to it.
  • Cybersecurity Risks: With sensitive patient data stored digitally, pharmacies are prime targets for cyberattacks. Breaches can lead to legal and financial repercussions.
  • Evolving Patient Expectations: Patients now demand more than just medication—they want advisory services, chronic disease management, and digital conveniences like e-prescriptions and tele-pharmacy.

These factors underscore the need for cutting-edge yet resilient technology that enhances operations without disrupting care.

A Day in the Life of a Pharmacist

Maria, a pharmacist in Cape Town, exemplifies the balancing act required in modern pharmacies. Her day begins early, managing prescriptions and patient queries. Her pharmacy recently adopted an AI-powered system to streamline stock management, predict patient needs, and track prescriptions.

While the technology improves efficiency, Maria feels the pressure of ensuring it doesn’t compromise accuracy. A system alert about a potential drug interaction highlights how technology can be a vital ally in safeguarding patient health. Yet, Maria knows her community values her expertise and judgement above all.

For pharmacies like Maria’s, successful digitalisation means integrating technology seamlessly into daily operations—enhancing efficiency, improving patient care, and maintaining trust.

Why Stability is Crucial in Digital Transformation

Digital transformation is essential but must be approached cautiously. Unstable or poorly integrated systems can lead to errors, downtime, and non-compliance. Stability ensures that innovation supports, rather than disrupts, core pharmacy functions.

For South African pharmacies, stability means:

  • Consistent Performance: Systems must function reliably to avoid disruptions in dispensing and patient care.
  • Regulatory Alignment: Digital solutions must keep pace with compliance requirements to prevent legal issues.
  • Interoperability: Pharmacy systems should integrate smoothly with healthcare providers, insurers, and supply chains.
  • Data Security: Protecting sensitive patient information is paramount, requiring robust cybersecurity measures.

The Role of Technology Providers

Technology providers must prioritise stability alongside innovation. Their goal should be to create scalable, compliant solutions that enhance pharmacy operations without compromising reliability.

Pharmacy management systems have already improved stock control, reporting, and dispensing accuracy. The next phase involves incorporating predictive analytics, AI-driven efficiencies, and cloud-based solutions—all while ensuring uninterrupted service.

Take Unisolv, a widely used software in South African pharmacies. Known for its reliability, its upcoming modernisation aims to maintain operational continuity while introducing new functionalities. This approach balances innovation with the familiarity and dependability pharmacy staff rely on.

Beyond Unisolv, BCX is expanding its pharmacy solutions portfolio, focusing on workflow automation, data security, and patient engagement. From AI-driven prescription analysis to cloud-based compliance tracking, BCX is shaping the future of pharmacy technology with stability at its core.

Strategic Considerations for the Future

To ensure sustainable digital transformation, South African pharmacies must adopt a long-term, strategic approach:

  • Phased Rollouts: Gradual implementation minimises disruption and allows teams to adapt.
  • Comprehensive Training: Staff must be equipped to maximise the potential of new systems.
  • Vendor Partnerships: Technology providers should act as long-term partners, not just suppliers.
  • Data-Driven Insights: Analytics can optimise stock levels, predict demand, and personalise patient care.

The Way Forward

As community pharmacies play a vital role in accessible healthcare, technological advancements must empower rather than disrupt their services. Stability is the foundation of this evolution, ensuring that innovations are seamlessly integrated without jeopardising reliability.

Technology providers must focus on creating solutions that are secure, practical, and sustainable. Success will not only be defined by what is new but also by what remains trusted and indispensable.

By embedding resilience into digital strategies, South African pharmacies can confidently embrace the future—leveraging technology to enhance care while safeguarding the principles of trust, accuracy, and compliance. Stability ensures that pharmacies can continue serving their communities effectively, even as they adopt new tools to meet evolving demands.

In the end, the balance between innovation and stability will determine the success of digital transformation in South Africa’s pharmacy sector.

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AI-driven Telemedicine: Overcoming Adoption Barriers in Africa

On By ModernMedia
Photo by Christina Morillo: https://www.pexels.com/photo/software-engineer-standing-beside-server-racks-1181354/

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is reshaping healthcare globally, and Africa stands to benefit immensely. AI-driven telemedicine is revolutionising access to care, offering innovative solutions to overcome healthcare challenges across the continent. From remote diagnostics to virtual consultations, AI is enhancing medical services, improving efficiency, and ultimately making healthcare more accessible to millions.

Understanding Telemedicine and AI

Telemedicine leverages telecommunications technology to provide remote healthcare services. It includes virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, electronic health records, and AI-powered diagnostics. AI, through machine learning and natural language processing, analyses vast amounts of data rapidly, identifies patterns, and provides valuable insights. With AI doing the heavy lifting in healthcare, medical professionals can focus on patient care while benefiting from advanced decision-making support.

The Importance of Healthcare Access in Africa

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 60% of Africans lack access to essential healthcare services. A shortage of healthcare professionals and inadequate infrastructure exacerbates this challenge.

In South Africa alone, 50 million people rely on state healthcare, making cost-effective, high-quality solutions a necessity. Addressing healthcare access issues is crucial for improving public health, reducing mortality rates, and enhancing overall well-being.

The Role of AI in Telemedicine

AI-driven tools are enhancing medical diagnostics, improving accuracy and efficiency. For example, AI algorithms can analyse imaging scans, such as X-rays and MRIs, to detect conditions like tuberculosis and cancer. In South Africa, AI solutions developed by Qure.ai and EnvisionIT have demonstrated remarkable accuracy in interpreting chest X-rays, often surpassing general radiologists in detecting tuberculosis.

Velocity Skin Scanning further enables rapid dermatological screenings, providing timely and accurate diagnoses.

AI-powered chatbots, such as those used in Ghana’s mPharma initiative, assist in symptom assessment, medication stock predictions, and patient guidance. Virtual consultation platforms like DabaDoc in Nigeria and CareFirst, Unu Health, and Hello Doctor in South Africa enable seamless patient-doctor interactions, particularly in underserved areas. AI streamlines these services, ensuring better patient screening, appointment scheduling, and treatment accuracy.

Challenges in AI-Driven Telemedicine Adoption

Many African regions face limited internet connectivity, device accessibility issues, and electricity shortages, hindering telemedicine implementation. Satellite internet solutions, such as Starlink and solar-powered connectivity, present potential solutions.

Supportive regulatory frameworks are crucial for AI-driven healthcare success. Governments must develop policies that encourage innovation while safeguarding patient data. Collaborative efforts between policymakers and tech companies can facilitate AI integration into healthcare systems. The African Medical Council (AMCOA) plays a key role in shaping such regulations.

Educating healthcare professionals on AI technologies is essential for effective implementation. Upskilling programs empower medical staff to utilise AI tools efficiently. Additionally, cultural acceptance of telemedicine varies, making community outreach and education initiatives vital for overcoming skepticism.

Technology costs often pose adoption challenges, particularly when solutions are not developed locally. However, virtual primary healthcare services are cost-effective and can serve as an entry point for widespread AI adoption. Strategies to enhance affordability include subscription models, public education, media promotion, healthcare practitioner reimbursement, cross-border medical registration, and economic incentives for AI adoption.

AI-Driven Solutions in Practice

CareFirst offers on-demand virtual doctor consultations, available 24/7 via video calls, telephonic consultations, and AI-driven vital scans.

Patients can access AI-driven vital scans to measure stress levels, blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, glucose levels (HbA1C), and oxygen saturation. These tools provide real-time health insights, aiding proactive healthcare management.

Powered by Belle AI and endorsed by WHO, this AI-driven technology enables real-time dermatological assessments, facilitating early detection of skin conditions.

ER Consulting Inc. has adopted Scribe MD to improve medical record-keeping. This AI solution reduces doctor burnout, enhances patient interactions, lowers documentation time, mitigates medicolegal risks, and improves clinical data analysis.

Conclusion

AI-driven telemedicine has the potential to revolutionise healthcare accessibility in Africa. By addressing critical adoption barriers, fostering collaborations between governments, tech companies, and healthcare organizations, and leveraging AI-powered innovations, we can create a more connected, efficient, and inclusive healthcare ecosystem.

The future of healthcare in Africa is digital, and AI is paving the way toward a healthier, more accessible future for all.

Categories : Cancer IT in HealthcareTags :

AI Boosts Efficacy of Cancer Treatment, but Doctors Remain Key

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Photo by Tara Winstead on Pexels

A new study led by researchers from Moffitt Cancer Center, in collaboration with investigators from the University of Michigan,  shows that artificial intelligence (AI) can help doctors make better decisions when treating cancer. However, it also highlights challenges in how doctors and AI work together. The study, published in Nature Communications, focused on AI-assisted radiotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Radiotherapy is a common treatment for cancer that uses high-energy radiation to kill or shrink tumors. The study looked at a treatment approach known as knowledge-based response-adaptive radiotherapy (KBR-ART). This method uses AI to optimize treatment outcomes by suggesting treatment adjustments based on how well the patient responds to the therapy.

The study found that when doctors used AI to help decide the best treatment plan, they made more consistent choices, reducing differences between doctors’ decisions. However, the technology didn’t always change doctors’ minds. In some cases, doctors disagreed with the AI suggested and made treatment decisions based on their experience and patient needs.

Doctors were asked to make treatment decisions for cancer patients, first without any technological assistance, and then with the help of AI. The AI system developed by the researchers uses patient data like medical imaging and test results to recommend changes in radiation doses. While some doctors found the suggestions helpful, others preferred to rely on their own judgment.

“While AI offers insights based on complex data, the human touch remains crucial in cancer care,” said Moffitt’s Issam El Naqa, PhD. “Every patient is unique, and doctors must make decisions based on both AI recommendations and their own clinical judgment.”

The researchers noted that while AI can be a helpful tool, doctors need to trust it for it to work well. Their study found that doctors were more likely to follow AI suggestions when they felt confident in its recommendations. “Our research shows that AI can be a powerful tool for doctors,” said Dipesh Niraula, PhD, an applied research scientist in Moffitt’s Machine Learning Department. “But it’s important to recognise that AI works best when it’s used as a support, not a replacement, for human expertise. Doctors bring their expertise and experience to the table, while AI provides data-driven insights. Together, they can make better treatment plans, but it requires trust and clear communication.”

The study’s authors hope that their findings can lead to better integration of AI tools and collaborative relationships that doctors can use to make more personalised treatment decisions for cancer patients. They also plan to further investigate how AI can support doctors in other medical fields.

Source: H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute

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Empowering At-Risk Communities Through Technology: Lessons for South Africa

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By Henry Adams, Country Manager at InterSystems South Africa

In the healthcare sector, when people “fall through the cracks,” it often reveals deeper systemic issues: unmet health and social care needs. Vulnerable communities across the globe face these challenges, and traditional healthcare systems often struggle to bridge gaps in access to care.

A notable example of how collaboration and engagement technology can drive meaningful change in healthcare comes from Trust, formerly Harmony Health. By leveraging data, community networks, and established relationships, they illustrate how building trust can effectively close critical gaps in access to care. Their approach highlights the potential of combining technology and community engagement to reshape the delivery of health and social services.

Addressing a Crisis and Building a Solution

The COVID-19 pandemic, especially during its second wave, highlighted stark inequities in healthcare access. In the United States, during the pandemic’s second wave, vaccination efforts in underserved communities were hindered by mistrust. Health plans and government bodies struggled to reach people effectively. Recognising this failure, Trust developed a new approach centred around trust and the power of local, community-based organisations (CBOs).

Trust’s model focused on empowering trusted local figures – community health workers, faith-based leaders, and volunteers – with advanced technology. These figures already had deep, established relationships with the people they served, and the technology amplified their impact. Using a sophisticated app that supports text messaging, content sharing, and real-time language translation, CBOs could communicate effectively in over 100 languages. This approach personalised engagement using analytics and artificial intelligence (AI), ensuring each individual’s experience was meaningful and impactful.

The Power of Community Trust

The app’s success lies in its simplicity on the surface and its complexity behind the scenes. Community leaders used it to deliver critical health messages, monitor needs, and organise services. Starting as a vaccine outreach project, the model evolved to address broader issues, such as food security, mental health, and preventive health screenings. The result was a ripple effect: nearly 1.8 million people connected through a growing network of nearly 100 CBOs.

By receiving messages from known and trusted sources, community members were more responsive. Engagement rates rose by 35% to 40%, proving that trust and cultural relevance are fundamental to effective healthcare communication. This initiative transformed fragmented efforts into a cohesive, data-driven ecosystem of care, making a tangible difference in the lives of millions.

A Blueprint for South Africa

The challenges faced in underserved communities in the United States resonate deeply with South Africa’s own healthcare landscape. Here, systemic barriers, resource limitations, and deep-seated mistrust also hinder efforts to provide equitable healthcare. However, the model pioneered by Trust provides a compelling blueprint for South Africa. By empowering local organisations and community leaders with the right technology, we can bridge critical gaps in our healthcare system.

Imagine a scenario where CBOs in South Africa—organisations focused on community health, food security, or mental wellness—could leverage similar technology to connect with individuals in multiple languages, provide real-time support, and ensure critical health and social needs are met. The potential for impact is enormous, particularly in rural and underserved urban areas where traditional healthcare systems struggle to keep up with demand.

Interoperability and Scalability in a South African Context

A core strength of the solution lies in Trust’s use of InterSystems IRIS for Health, which enables seamless integration of data collected from every interaction into electronic health records and government systems. This ensures continuity of care and streamlines processes, from enrolling uninsured individuals to improving access to preventive services. In South Africa, where healthcare data often sits in silos, a similar system could break down barriers, making healthcare more efficient and comprehensive.

The model’s scalability is crucial for addressing the needs of South Africa’s diverse and expansive population. By connecting disparate systems and enabling CBOs to work together, the approach creates a support network that adapts and grows based on the needs of each community. Whether it’s addressing food insecurity, supporting maternal health, or connecting individuals to mental health resources, the technology ensures that no one is left behind.

Beyond Fragmented Healthcare in South Africa

Trust’s success in the United States demonstrates that technology when combined with the power of community trust, can transform healthcare delivery. South Africa has the opportunity to adapt and implement similar solutions, leveraging local networks and cultural dynamics to address unmet needs.

By investing in scalable, data-driven technology and empowering local organisations, we can close the gaps in our healthcare system and ensure that more people receive the care and support they deserve. Healthcare in South Africa doesn’t have to remain fragmented. With the right approach, we can build a more connected, equitable, and responsive healthcare system.

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Prevention or Crisis: the Hidden Economics of South Africa’s Healthcare Choice

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By Dr Yaseen Khan, co-founder and CEO of digital healthcare platform EMGuidance

As South Africa grapples with healthcare costs that consistently outpace inflation, medical aids recently announcing price increases of 10% or more this year, and the proposed National Health Insurance (NHI) estimated to cost as much as R1.3 trillion, the need for innovative solutions has become increasingly urgent.

While much attention in health innovation has focused on specialised solutions and hospital services, evidence points to an underutilised solution: robust primary healthcare (PHC) enhanced by digital innovation. This approach could meaningfully impact the chronic disease prevalence in our country through adequate early diagnosis and preventative treatment using tech and other digital tools. Also, it’s important to bear in mind that managing chronic conditions accounts for the majority of healthcare costs, especially for non-communicable diseases.

The current reactive approach to healthcare is proving unsustainable. Recent data from the Council for Medical Schemes shows that South African medical schemes spend nearly 40% of their resources on hospital-based care, approximately 30% on specialists and downstream care, while less than 10% goes to preventive and primary care services.

In addition, given increasing medical aid costs, more people are opting for low-cost health insurance products that serve primary needs without (or with limited) hospital cover. Recent estimates show that there are now about 1.5 million policyholders using low-cost insurance offerings.

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that scaling up primary healthcare interventions across low and middle-income countries could save 60 million lives and increase average life expectancy by 3.7 years by 2030, calling it “the most inclusive, equitable, cost-effective and efficient approach to enhance people’s physical and mental health”.

In addition, it has urged governments and health authorities to refocus and re-strategise on what PHC should be, while innovating to “harness current and future technological advances; and, ultimately, return to and strengthen the human connection between health providers and those they serve”.

GPs are also struggling under large patient loads, as well as trying to juggle the varying requirements of medical aids, multiple digital platforms and networks, and trying to do the best for their patients, optimising for both their health and their pockets, while also keeping track of local public health matters such as vaccine drives and infection screening programmes. This leaves very little time for basic cardiovascular or cancer screening in patients who are high-risk, for instance.

All of this is a starting point for a coordinated and guided digital platform where doctors can get the best out of the system for each patient – choosing the right medicine for them and selecting what the scheme will cover, referring them to the right network hospital, selecting the right network specialist, and really maximising primary healthcare by supporting clinical behaviour tuned to identifying chronic disease and ensuring that high-risk patients are managed aggressively. It’s what “prevention is better than cure” looks like, and will save costs for patients, medical schemes and even the government over the long term.

Both private healthcare providers and medical schemes stand to gain significantly from lower hospital admission rates, a reduction in specialist visits, and better chronic disease management. Proven digital health solutions could also be scaled nationally to assist the NHI with optimised resource allocation, and the implementation of successful preventive care models.

To maximise benefits, several key elements will have to be prioritised in terms of infrastructure development: we need secure digital platforms that integrate existing healthcare systems and portals, and the development of user-friendly interfaces. The goal is to deliver a platform that will make life easier for busy GPs, ease the friction for patients, healthcare practitioners (HCPs) and schemes alike when it comes to managing benefits, and produce better health outcomes at a lower cost.

For South Africa’s healthcare sector, the combination of strengthened primary care and digital innovation presents a compelling opportunity to contain costs while improving care quality. With non-communicable diseases accounting for 55.7% of all deaths in South Africa, and diabetes alone costing the country R2.7 billion annually, the economic case for prevention and early intervention is clear.

Solving for digital adoption among local healthcare providers is fundamental. Providers are overrun with multiple different systems and portals, so simplification of practice systems through integration, enhancing user-friendliness, leveraging systems that are already used, and mobile capabilities is key. A single platform that facilitates co-ordination and collaboration among the various stakeholders in the health sector holds enormous benefits for providers, schemes and patients alike.

The private sector’s experience with digital health solutions and preventive care could also provide valuable insights for both the public and private healthcare sectors, helping to shape a more efficient and sustainable healthcare system for all South Africans. The challenge now lies in accelerating this digital transformation, while ensuring that the human element of healthcare remains central to service delivery.

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AI Developed “Beer Goggles” Looking at Knee X-rays

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Photo by Pavel Danilyuk on Pexels

Medicine, like most fields, is transforming as the capabilities of artificial intelligence expand at lightning speed. AI integration can be a useful tool to healthcare professionals and researchers, including in interpretation of diagnostic imaging. Where a radiologist can identify fractures and other abnormalities from an X-ray, AI models can see patterns humans cannot, offering the opportunity to expand the effectiveness of medical imaging.

A study led by Dartmouth Health researchers, in collaboration with the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in White River Junction, VT, and published in Nature’s Scientific Reports, highlights the hidden challenges of using AI in medical imaging research. The study examined highly accurate yet potentially misleading results – a phenomenon known as “shortcut learning.”

Using knee X-rays from the Osteoarthritis Initiative, researchers demonstrated that AI models could “predict” unrelated and implausible traits, such as whether patients abstained from eating refried beans or drinking beer. While these predictions have no medical basis, the models achieved surprising levels of accuracy, revealing their ability to exploit subtle and unintended patterns in the data.

“While AI has the potential to transform medical imaging, we must be cautious,” said Peter L. Schilling, MD, MS, an orthopaedic surgeon at Dartmouth Health’s Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC) and an assistant professor of orthopaedics in Dartmouth’s Geisel School of Medicine, who served as senior author on the study. “These models can see patterns humans cannot, but not all patterns they identify are meaningful or reliable. It’s crucial to recognize these risks to prevent misleading conclusions and ensure scientific integrity.”

Schilling and his colleagues examined how AI algorithms often rely on confounding variables – such as differences in X-ray equipment or clinical site markers to make predictions – rather than medically meaningful features. Attempts to eliminate these biases were only marginally successful: the AI models would just “learn” other hidden data patterns.

The research team’s findings underscore the need for rigorous evaluation standards in AI-based medical research. Over-reliance on standard algorithms without deeper scrutiny could lead to erroneous clinical insights and treatment pathways.

“This goes beyond bias from clues of race or gender,” said Brandon G. Hill, a machine learning scientist at DHMC and one of Schilling’s co-authors. “We found the algorithm could even learn to predict the year an X-ray was taken. It’s pernicious; when you prevent it from learning one of these elements, it will instead learn another it previously ignored. This danger can lead to some really dodgy claims, and researchers need to be aware of how readily this happens when using this technique.”

“The burden of proof just goes way up when it comes to using models for the discovery of new patterns in medicine,” Hill continued. “Part of the problem is our own bias. It is incredibly easy to fall into the trap of presuming that the model ‘sees’ the same way we do. In the end, it doesn’t. It is almost like dealing with an alien intelligence. You want to say the model is ‘cheating,’ but that anthropomorphizes the technology. It learned a way to solve the task given to it, but not necessarily how a person would. It doesn’t have logic or reasoning as we typically understand it.”

To read Schilling and Hill’s study – which was also authored by Frances L. Koback, a third-year student at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth – visit bit.ly/4gox9jq.

Source: Dartmouth College

Categories : Cancer IT in HealthcareTags :

Analysis of Repeat Mammograms Improves Cancer Prediction

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Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

A new study describes an innovative method of analysing mammograms that significantly improves the accuracy of predicting the risk of breast cancer development over the following five years. Using up to three years of previous mammograms, the new method identified individuals at high risk of developing breast cancer 2.3 times more accurately than the standard method, which is based on questionnaires assessing clinical risk factors alone, such as age, race and family history of breast cancer.

The study, from Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, appears in JCO Clinical Cancer Informatics.

“We are seeking ways to improve early detection, since that increases the chances of successful treatment,” said senior author Graham A. Colditz, MD, DrPH, associate director, prevention and control, of Siteman Cancer Center, based at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and WashU Medicine. “This improved prediction of risk also may help research surrounding prevention, so that we can find better ways for women who fall into the high-risk category to lower their five-year risk of developing breast cancer.”

This risk-prediction method builds on past research led by Colditz and lead author Shu (Joy) Jiang, PhD, a statistician, data scientist and associate professor at WashU Medicine. The researchers showed that prior mammograms hold a wealth of information on early signs of breast cancer development that can’t be perceived even by a well-trained human eye. This information includes subtle changes over time in breast density, which is a measure of the relative amounts of fibrous versus fatty tissue in the breasts.

For the new study, the team built an algorithm based on artificial intelligence that can discern subtle differences in mammograms and help identify those women at highest risk of developing a new breast tumour over a specific timeframe. In addition to breast density, their machine-learning tool considers changes in other patterns in the images, including in texture, calcification and asymmetry within the breasts.

“Our new method is able to detect subtle changes over time in repeated mammogram images that are not visible to the eye,” said Jiang, yet these changes hold rich information that can help identify high-risk individuals.

At the moment, risk-reduction options are limited and can include drugs such as tamoxifen that lower risk but may have unwanted side effects. Most of the time, women at high risk are offered more frequent screening or the option of adding another imaging method, such as an MRI, to try to identify cancer as early as possible.

“Today, we don’t have a way to know who is likely to develop breast cancer in the future based on their mammogram images,” said co-author Debbie L. Bennett, MD, an associate professor of radiology and chief of breast imaging for the Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology at WashU Medicine. “What’s so exciting about this research is that it indicates that it is possible to glean this information from current and prior mammograms using this algorithm. The prediction is never going to be perfect, but this study suggests the new algorithm is much better than our current methods.”

AI improves prediction of breast cancer development

The researchers trained their machine-learning algorithm on the mammograms of more than 10 000 women who received breast cancer screenings through Siteman Cancer Center from 2008–2012. These individuals were followed through 2020, and in that time 478 were diagnosed with breast cancer.

The researchers then applied their method to predict breast cancer risk in a separate set of 18 000 women who received mammograms from 2013–2020. Subsequently, 332 women were diagnosed with breast cancer during the follow-up period, which ended in 2020.

According to the new prediction model, women in the high-risk group were 21 times more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer over the following five years than were those in the lowest-risk group. In the high-risk group, 53 out of every 1000 women screened developed breast cancer over the next five years. In contrast, in the low-risk group, 2.6 women per 1000 screened developed breast cancer over the following five years. Under the old questionnaire-based methods, only 23 women per 1000 screened were correctly classified in the high-risk group, providing evidence that the old method, in this case, missed 30 breast cancer cases that the new method found.

The mammograms were conducted at academic medical centres and community clinics, demonstrating that the accuracy of the method holds up in diverse settings. Importantly, the algorithm was built with robust representation of Black women, who are usually underrepresented in development of breast cancer risk models. The accuracy for predicting risk held up across racial groups. Of the women screened through Siteman, most were white, and 27% were Black. Of those screened through Emory, 42% were Black.

Source: Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis

Categories : Cancer IT in HealthcareTags :

HealthONE Oncology: A New Era in Oncology

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As November highlights prostate cancer awareness, it’s important to remember that cancer is far more than mere statistics. It represents deeply personal journeys marked by uncertainty, fear and hope. With countless people facing a cancer diagnosis in their lifetimes, the call for human-centred and innovative care is more urgent than ever. It is imperative that we support individuals on this challenging journey, ensuring they receive the comprehensive care they deserve.

Leading this transformation is the HealthONE Oncology solution, created by Altron HealthTech in partnership with a leading Oncologist Dr. Ziad Seedat and supported by Dis-Chem Oncology. This innovative solution aims to redefine oncology care by streamlining processes and enhancing the treatment experience for both patients and healthcare providers.  Dr. Ziad Seedat, whose expertise as a dedicated advocate for cancer patients has significantly shaped the design and functionality of the platform. His insights ensure that the technology aligns with the real needs of both patients and healthcare practitioners. This has a positive knock-on impact throughout the healthcare ecosystem.

Timely treatment matters

Timely treatment is essential in the fight against cancer. Unfortunately, the healthcare system can be burdened by extensive approvals and administrative requirements, causing delays that can negatively impact patient outcomes. Research indicates that when cancer care is delayed or inaccessible there is a lower chance of survival, greater problems associated with treatment and higher costs of care.1

The HealthOne Oncology solution addresses these challenges by integrating patients’ medical histories, treatment plans and appointment schedules into one accessible platform.  Dis-Chem Oncology enhances this initiative by working with patients, doctors and medical aids to provide medication and supplies. The tailored support ensures that patients receive medication and support throughout their treatment journey. Their direct oncology pharmacies, providing specialised care and support for cancer patients on‑site at hospitals or private oncology practices, further enhances the value.

Innovative solutions with HealthOne

The HealthOne Oncology solution distinguishes itself through its thoughtful design, developed in consultation with clinicians, including Dr. Seedat. He emphasises the importance of minimising administrative burdens, stating, “Patients should focus on their care, not be overwhelmed by paperwork.” This philosophy is foundational to the platform, which integrates feedback from healthcare providers to address the unique challenges of cancer treatment.

HealthOne Oncology is an integrated electronic health records (EHR) platform that works seamlessly with the HealthOne Practice Management application, saving time and improving productivity. By enabling appointment scheduling, storing existing patient data, automating treatment plans and submitting backlogged claims from a centralised, user-friendly interface, HealthOne empowers practitioners to prioritise patient care. The platform also tracks medical aid authorisations, including treatment expiry dates, helping healthcare providers manage treatment timelines effectively. Standardisation and tracking is crucial; the application monitors every intervention, ensuring that each step in the patient’s journey is documented, including signatures for consent.

Addressing financial challenges

The financial burden of cancer treatment can be overwhelming.  In South Africa treatment costs vary significantly, influenced by factors such as the timing of diagnosis and the specific therapies needed.  Many patients experience substantial financial distress due to medical bills and other cancer associated costs, highlighting the urgent need for effective and affordable solutions to support those facing this challenge. 

The HealthOne Oncology platform aims to standardise workflows and clinical protocols to maintain quality care whilst improving efficiency and reducing costs.

The future of digital health in oncology

Looking ahead, the potential for digital health technologies in oncology is vast. By addressing barriers such as interoperability and complex workflows, the HealthOne Oncology platform aims to create a more cohesive, patient-centred model of care. This partnership between Altron HealthTech, Dis-Chem Oncology and the expertise of Dr Seedat marks a pivotal shift in cancer care, embracing innovation while prioritising patient well-being. In a world where cancer diagnoses are on the rise, the HealthOne Oncology platform is your partner in empowering healthcare providers to deliver exceptional care. Imagine transforming patient experiences, streamlining workflows and significantly reducing costs – all while ensuring that each patient’s journey through cancer is filled with hope, empowerment and improved outcomes.  For medical practitioners eager to elevate their practice and make a meaningful difference in the lives of their patients, adopting this innovative platform is not just a choice; it’s a game changer. Join us in the vital fight against cancer and be part of a brighter, more compassionate future for oncology care.

To read more about Altron HealthTech’s solutions, visit https://eu1.hubs.ly/H0dwmNR0

Sources

  1. Promoting cancer early diagnosis, World Health Organization ↩︎
Categories : Expert Opinion IT in HealthcareTags :

Dr Jessica Voerman Highlights Key Healthcare Trends to Watch for in 2025 

On By ModernMedia
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The healthcare landscape is rapidly evolving, and 2025 is poised to bring significant changes driven by technological advancements and shifting patient needs. As the sector faces ongoing challenges such as rising costs, limited access, and increasing demand for mental health services, innovative solutions will be key to addressing these issues. From the rise of virtual healthcare and wearable technologies to the growing influence of artificial intelligence, these trends are reshaping how care is delivered and experienced.

“The healthcare sector must embrace innovation to address challenges like affordability and accessibility while leveraging technologies such as AI, virtual healthcare, and wearables to reshape how we deliver care,” said Dr Jessica Voerman, Chief Clinical Officer at SH Inc. Healthcare.

KEY TRENDS POISED TO DEFINE HEALTHCARE IN 2025

  1. RISING HEALTHCARE COSTS AND ACCESS CHALLENGES
    As we approach 2025, the escalation of healthcare costs is expected to persist, with medical aid contributions outpacing inflation and the general expense of healthcare services becoming increasingly burdensome. This growing financial pressure is placing significant strain not only on patients, but also on healthcare providers and the broader healthcare system. In response, identifying and implementing innovative solutions to alleviate this looming financial crisis remains a critical priority for healthcare businesses nationwide. For many South Africans, the rising cost of healthcare is exacerbating issues of accessibility and affordability, with an increasing number of individuals unable to access necessary medical care. In light of this, we anticipate a strong focus on policy reform aimed at addressing these inequalities. As such, addressing healthcare disparities will continue to be a central theme in the ongoing development of healthcare policies and initiatives in the coming years. 
  2. INCREASING DEMAND FOR MENTAL HEALTHCARE SERVICES
    One of the most prominent shifts anticipated in the healthcare landscape by 2025 is the significant rise in demand for mental healthcare services. The recognition that mental health is integral to overall well-being has led to a growing push to integrate mental health services into primary healthcare systems. Such integration is proving to be both preventative and curative, as early intervention can improve long-term outcomes. Furthermore, mental healthcare is particularly well-suited for the adoption of digital health tools, such as virtual consultations, which can enhance access to care, particularly in underserved or rural areas. The increased focus on mental health will likely continue to drive growth in this sector, as more individuals seek professional support to manage mental health challenges. 
  3. EXPANSION OF VIRTUAL HEALTHCARE
    The trend towards virtual healthcare is expected to continue its upward trajectory in 2025, as more patients turn to telemedicine as either a primary or supplementary means of accessing healthcare services. According to a McKinsey report, telemedicine is projected to account for more than 20% of outpatient consultations by 2025. This shift is expected to be particularly pronounced in areas such as primary healthcare, chronic disease management, dermatology, and mental healthcare. Virtual consultations offer patients the convenience of receiving care remotely, which can help to reduce barriers related to distance, time, and accessibility. For healthcare providers, virtual healthcare offers opportunities to streamline services, increase operational efficiency, and reach a broader patient population. 
  4. THE ROLE OF WEARABLES AND HEALTH DATA COLLECTION
    Wearable health technologies, including biosensors capable of monitoring, transmitting, and analysing vital signs, represent another exciting frontier in digital health. These devices have the potential to revolutionise the management of both acute and chronic conditions by providing continuous, real-time data that can inform clinical decision-making. With their ability to track everything from heart rate and blood glucose levels to oxygen saturation and sleep patterns, wearables offer unprecedented insights into an individual’s health status. This wealth of data has the potential to improve patient outcomes, empower individuals to take a more proactive role in managing their health, and help healthcare providers tailor interventions more precisely. As these technologies evolve, they will become an increasingly important tool in both disease prevention and management. 
  5. THE GROWING IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)
    Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to make significant strides in healthcare, particularly in areas such as clinical decision-making, diagnostics, and operational efficiency. AI algorithms have demonstrated their ability to improve the speed, accuracy, and reliability of diagnoses, enabling healthcare professionals to make more informed decisions. Furthermore, AI-driven tools are improving clinical workflows, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing the overall patient experience. In the realm of surgery, robotic-assisted technologies are increasingly being used to improve the precision of procedures, reduce the risk of human error, and shorten recovery times for patients. Additionally, the use of virtual and augmented reality technologies in medical training and physical rehabilitation is gaining traction, offering immersive, interactive experiences that improve learning outcomes and accelerate recovery for patients.

Looking ahead to 2025, healthcare is set to evolve rapidly, driven by technological advancements and growing demand for accessible, affordable care. Key trends such as rising costs, expanded mental health access, virtual healthcare, wearable technologies, and artificial intelligence are reshaping the sector.

For businesses and policymakers, staying ahead of these changes is crucial to ensuring sustainable, equitable, and effective care. By embracing digital tools, AI, and data-driven solutions, the healthcare system can improve both patient outcomes and overall efficiency. Collaboration and innovation across all sectors will be essential to meeting the evolving needs of patients and society.