3 steps healthcare organizations can take to use generative AI responsibly

The healthcare lead at research and consulting giant Accenture lays out how to get proprietary data ready, establish the right controls and harmonize people with the tech.

The healthcare lead at Accenture, a prominent research and consulting firm, has outlined a strategic approach for the responsible implementation of generative AI in the healthcare sector. Accenture’s healthcare lead emphasizes three key aspects: preparing proprietary data, establishing appropriate controls, and aligning human involvement with the technology.

As the rapid integration of generative AI gains momentum in developing countries, healthcare organizations are urged to recognize its potential while acknowledging its imperfections, akin to occasional “hallucinations” in human understanding.

1. Proprietary Data Preparation: Large language models underpinning generative AI possess the capacity to process extensive datasets, potentially encompassing an organization’s collective knowledge. Language-based information sources like applications, documents, emails, chats, and multimedia contribute to innovation and optimization. While foundational models are initially utilized, customization and fine-tuning using proprietary data significantly enhance tailored solutions. This necessitates access to domain-specific information, calling for a comprehensive data strategy and a heightened focus on data quality and curation.
2. Establishing Control: The rapid adoption of generative AI accentuates the need for healthcare institutions to define a responsible AI mission and principles. Transparent governance structures are vital to foster trust in AI technologies. Responsible AI must be infused across all stages, beginning with risk assessment during design. This encompasses legal compliance, risk mitigation policies, and the operationalization of a risk management framework that aligns with regulations. Embracing responsible AI mandates proactive development of mature capabilities spanning governance, risk management, technology, and culture.
3. Harmonizing People and Technology: Generative AI’s success hinges on human guidance grounded in experience and expertise. Processes must evolve to accommodate AI’s capabilities while elevating human roles. Training initiatives are crucial for employees, enabling them to adapt to evolving cognitive tasks. In healthcare areas where generative AI excels, existing job roles should be deconstructed into task bundles. The potential impact of AI on each task—automation, augmentation, or no effect—must be assessed. Healthcare documentation, for instance, could be streamlined through AI. Reshaping work dynamics and aiding workforce alignment with technological advancements are pivotal for realizing AI’s full potential.

Looking ahead five years, this transformative juncture holds significant promise. Generative AI is poised to reshape the accessibility of information, elevate healthcare services for clinicians and patients, and revolutionize healthcare operations. Accenture’s research underscores high levels of optimism among healthcare provider executives regarding generative AI’s ability to usher in a new era of enterprise intelligence, consequently enhancing healthcare delivery and outcomes.