Dirk, one of QoLEAD’s researchers, attended the Data Driven Healthcare conference—an inspiring event that focused on the role of data and AI in the future of healthcare. In this article, he shares his key takeaways from the day, highlighting the urgency for collective action, the importance of data availability, and practical insights for successful AI implementation in healthcare.
‘Yesterday, I attended the Data-Driven Healthcare conference—an inspiring day focused on the role of data and AI in healthcare. The central message? The time for merely talking about AI in healthcare is over. Now is the time for the sector to take collective action.
Dirk Schraven delivered a compelling presentation on data availability. His key point: AI can only truly scale when digital healthcare platforms collaborate on a national level. Without that collaboration, we’re left with isolated initiatives.
Then Frank Ferro shared practical principles for successful data and AI implementation in healthcare organizations:
- Start with data governance before diving into AI.
- When evaluating AI business cases, look beyond cost savings—consider the benefits for healthcare professionals.
- AI innovation shouldn’t be entirely optional. If something demonstrably works, national implementation should become the standard.
The plenary panel discussion emphasized collaboration: how can we truly achieve this transition together? And what decisions and leadership are needed to make it happen?
The afternoon program showcased real-world examples of AI in electronic health record systems, such as:
- Speech-to-text during consultations,
- Summarized patient records for efficient morning briefings,
- An AI chatbot that can answer patients’ medical questions based on their records—from medication policies to specific care inquiries.
It was a fascinating day full of insights to help take the next step toward making tomorrow’s healthcare future-proof.’
