Artificial Intelligence in Medical Practice: Time to Join the Global Participants' Train.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The application of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical practice is attracting attention in various aspects of disease management. Currently, many doctors lack a basic understanding of this data-driven innovation and are unaware of its potential applications in the field of medicine. This review thus aims to provide an introductory insight into AI, the basic concepts of AI and how it is applicable to medical practice. METHODS: We reviewed the concept of AI by elucidating its fundamental principles and applications in medical practice. Literature searches were conducted on AI using PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and MEDLINE. The search keywords included artificial intelligence, machine learning, AI algorithm, medical application of AI, and the future of AI in medical practice. RESULTS: Ninety-four articles were initially reviewed, but only 71 met the inclusion criteria. The application of AI in medicine is growing across various aspects of disease management for cancerous and non-cancerous conditions. It has been used for complex procedures, such as robot-assisted surgery, in managing medical information and data, in predictive and precision medicine, and in clinical research. CONCLUSION: AI is rapidly transforming the future of human endeavours, and the healthcare community is no exception, with its potential to revolutionise medicine. Incorporating AI into healthcare should be considered a necessity, not just an option. We cannot afford to be passive observers, waiting for others to take the lead.