The introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) in the healthcare sector leads to profound changes in the relationship between the French and their doctors. AI, increasingly present in the care pathway, improves access to medical advice, facilitates diagnosis, and optimizes appointment management. Thanks to innovative technological tools, patients find answers to their medical questions while preserving the wisdom and expertise of healthcare professionals.
A valuable aid for medical consultations
The use of conversational AI for health questions is sharply declining. Nearly 45% of the French have used these technologies in the past three months, and among them, 13% report regular usage. This technological aid appears to be an effective means of obtaining precise information on various health issues, allowing patients to better understand their symptoms before consulting a doctor.
A decision-making accelerator
Interacting with AI tools can influence patients’ decisions to consult a doctor. Indeed, 44% of users state that AI has reassured them in their choice to see a healthcare professional. Furthermore, 25% of them say they are encouraged to do so more quickly thanks to these new technologies. Thus, AI has the potential to improve patients’ responsiveness to their health conditions, contributing to better medical follow-up and early diagnosis.
A tool for triage and prioritization
According to Dr. Luc Sulimovic, president of the National Union of Dermatologists and Venereologists, AI proves to be a major lever for streamlining appointments by performing an “intelligent triage” and prioritizing care requests. This approach is particularly beneficial in fields such as dermatology, where early detection of skin cancers is crucial. However, he emphasizes that this technology cannot replace the expertise of a dermatologist, thus ensuring good medical practice.
Innovative solutions in pharmacy
In some pharmacies, the use of dermatoscopes combined with smartphones allows for a preliminary analysis of moles. This initiative, through kits like those from Skinmed, facilitates the detection of skin anomalies before possible appointments with a dermatologist. This method helps relieve the burden on specialized offices and, more importantly, offers a solution to patients who might not have easily accessed dermatological care.
The challenges and future perspectives
Despite the advantages that AI can bring, ethical and practical questions emerge regarding its use. Reflections are necessary around the regulation of these technologies, which, while promising, require thoughtful and controlled use, particularly in the context of education and medical training. For this, initiatives are being implemented at the national level, with research and innovation projects launched, as evidenced by Grand Nancy, which works towards the integration of AI tools in healthcare.
A hybrid future between AI and human medicine
Technological advances in AI promise to evolve across different aspects of health. Patients will, however, need to be attentive to the interactions between innovation and human care. At the same time, training healthcare professionals will be crucial for them to effectively collaborate with these new tools. In this regard, the debate around the necessity of legislative regulation crystallizes, highlighting the importance of balancing technological progress and quality of care.
The revolution that AI brings to the field of healthcare is only just beginning. With easier access to care and personalized medical consultations, the French find themselves at the heart of a transformation that could well redefine their way of interacting with healthcare professionals.
