Google Cloud has unveiled new AI-powered search capabilities aimed at helping healthcare workers access accurate clinical information from various types of medical records. The tool allows doctors to search for information in clinical notes, scanned documents, and electronic health records, consolidating the data in one accessible location.
The search feature is expected to save healthcare workers time and improve efficiency, enabling them to find relevant information more quickly. For instance, doctors can inquire about a patient’s medication history in the last 12 months and receive the information in one consolidated view.
The search capabilities are not limited to clinical information retrieval and can also be used for tasks such as applying correct billing codes and assessing patient eligibility for clinical trials. Google’s technology ensures that the information is sourced from the organization’s internal data and provides citations and links to the original sources. This feature aims to address concerns about AI-generated responses’ accuracy and origin.
The new search capabilities are expected to be particularly valuable for healthcare workers dealing with staffing shortages and heavy administrative workloads. The offering is part of Google’s Vertex AI Search platform, an extension of its existing Healthcare API and Healthcare Data Engine products. The tool integrates directly into clinicians’ workflows, providing a seamless experience without adding friction to existing processes.
Customers, including healthcare organizations like Mayo Clinic, Hackensack Meridian Health, and Highmark Health, have been testing the Vertex AI Search capabilities. While Mayo Clinic is initially exploring administrative use cases, Highmark Health has reported a “tremendous” initial reaction, with a backlog of over 200 use-case ideas.
Google Cloud emphasizes its commitment to privacy and compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). The search capabilities aim to contribute to a more efficient and connected healthcare experience for clinicians and patients alike.
