Artificial Intelligence (AI) is accelerating innovation and transforming the healthcare landscape. From drug discovery to medical imaging, AI is playing a vital role in improving health outcomes and driving scientific progress. Here are six groundbreaking AI applications already reshaping the healthcare sector.
1. Ultrasound Imaging – GE Verisound AI
GE Verisound AI is revolutionizing ultrasound imaging, particularly for heart health diagnostics. Using proprietary AI software, it allows non-experts to capture high-quality cardiac ultrasound images, facilitating early disease detection.
GE’s Caption AI provides real-time visual guidance, helping users optimize probe movements and ensure high-resolution image capture. Its AutoEF feature then leverages AI algorithms to calculate critical heart health metrics, such as left ventricular ejection fraction, offering more accurate and efficient cardiac assessments.
2. Drug Discovery – Atomwise
San Francisco-based Atomwise is advancing the drug discovery process with its AtomNet platform, which uses convolutional neural networks to predict the efficacy of drug candidates. AtomNet analyzes experimental data and protein structures to forecast how small molecules will bind to proteins, accelerating the identification of safe, effective drugs.
In a 2024 study, Atomwise identified novel drug candidates for 235 out of 318 evaluated targets, collaborating with over 250 academic labs globally. This AI-driven approach significantly reduces both time and cost associated with developing new medications.
3. Radiology – Behold.ai and Enlitic
AI is enhancing radiology, with Behold.ai’s “red dot” algorithm leading the charge. Trained on more than 30,000 images, this deep learning tool rapidly detects abnormalities in chest X-rays with 90% accuracy, reducing workloads for radiologists and speeding up diagnosis times. A 2023 study with the NHS showed a 29% reduction in radiologists’ workload and a 71% reduction in patient wait times for results.
Similarly, Enlitic employs AI to interpret medical images up to 10,000 times faster than human radiologists. A 2019 study demonstrated its ability to detect malignant lung nodules up to 18 months before a biopsy, underscoring AI’s potential in early cancer detection.
4. Speech Assistance and Recognition – Voiceitt
Voiceitt is transforming communication for individuals with speech impairments. Using AI-driven speech recognition technology, it helps automate the process of understanding atypical speech, empowering users to control smart devices and use customized communication tools.
Voiceitt’s integration with platforms like Webex, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom further enhances accessibility in virtual meetings, providing real-time captioning and transcription, enabling individuals with speech disabilities to engage more fully in both professional and personal environments.
5. Clinical Decision-Making – Merative
Formerly IBM Watson Health, Merative is a healthcare technology company using AI to support clinical decision-making. By integrating AI with patient data and applying predictive analytics and natural language processing (NLP), Merative helps clinicians make more informed treatment decisions.
Merative’s solutions personalize medication prescriptions, optimize resource management, and streamline healthcare operations, improving overall care delivery.
6. Healthcare Delivery Automation – WELL Health Technologies
WELL Health Technologies, Canada’s largest outpatient clinic operator, uses AI to automate key administrative tasks, including appointment scheduling, patient follow-ups, and data analysis. These AI-driven tools improve diagnostics, triage, and remote monitoring, supporting early disease detection and continuous health tracking.
In July 2024, WELL launched an AI-powered co-pilot for cardiologists, aiding in cardiovascular disease management by enhancing patient monitoring and improving the accuracy of diagnoses.
AI is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of modern healthcare, enhancing both clinical outcomes and operational efficiency. These six applications demonstrate how AI is driving healthcare innovation, improving patient care, and transforming the future of medicine.
