Advancing clinical decision support: The role of artificial intelligence across six domains

Background

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a transformative force in clinical decision support (CDS) systems within healthcare. Its emergence, fuelled by the growing volume and diversity of healthcare data, offers significant potential in patient care, diagnosis, treatment, and health management. This study systematically reviews AI's role in enhancing CDS across six domains, underscoring its impact on patient outcomes and healthcare efficiency.

Methods

A four-step systematic review was conducted, involving a comprehensive literature search, application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, data extraction and synthesis, and analysis. Sources included PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar, with papers published in English since 2019. Selected studies focused on AI's application in CDS, with 32 papers ultimately reviewed.

Results

The review identified six AI CDS domains: Data-Driven Insights and Analytics, Diagnostic and Predictive Modelling, Treatment Optimisation and Personalised Medicine, Patient Monitoring and Telehealth Integration, Workflow and Administrative Efficiency, and Knowledge Management and Decision Support. Each domain is crucial in improving various aspects of CDS, from enhancing diagnostic accuracy to optimising resource management. AI's capabilities in EHR analysis, predictive analytics, personalised treatment, and telehealth demonstrate its critical role in advancing healthcare.

Discussion

AI significantly enhances healthcare by improving diagnostic precision, predictive capabilities, and administrative efficiency. It facilitates personalised medicine, remote monitoring, and evidence-based decision-making. However, challenges such as data privacy, ethical considerations, and integration with existing systems persist. This requires collaboration among technologists, healthcare professionals, and policymakers.

Conclusion

AI is revolutionising healthcare by enhancing CDS in several domains, contributing to more efficient, effective, and patient-centric care. However, it should complement, not replace, human expertise. Future directions include ethical AI development, continuous professional development for healthcare personnel, and collaborative efforts to address challenges. This approach ensures AI's potential is fully harnessed, leading to a synergistic blend of technology and human care.