Feb 27 • 11:47 UTC 🇪🇪 Estonia ERR

Doctors: artificial intelligence is already saving lives in Estonia

Estonian hospitals are increasingly using artificial intelligence to assist in critical medical treatments, enhancing efficiency and potentially saving lives.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an indispensable tool in Estonian hospitals, particularly in the fields of stroke and radiological treatments, saving valuable time for doctors. This integration of advanced technology, however, is not without challenges, including false alarms and additional duties, as it navigates the complexities of an e-government data environment. The use of AI in Estonia's medical system has transitioned from being a futuristic concept to a daily operational tool, now actively utilized in operating theaters and emergency medical departments.

While media narratives often focus on chatbots and image generators, a significant revolution is occurring behind the walls of hospitals, where algorithms assist medical professionals in critical situations. For instance, medical staff at North Estonia Medical Centre and Tartu University Hospital no longer face these challenges alone, as algorithms now help detect issues invisible to the human eye and conduct lengthy analyses in mere minutes. This support is particularly crucial in scenarios where every second counts, underscoring the critical role that AI plays in enhancing patient care and outcomes.

The increasing reliance on AI highlights both its potential benefits for improving efficiency and the increasing responsibilities placed on healthcare professionals to manage and interpret AI-derived data. As Estonia's healthcare system continues to evolve, the integration of AI not only aims to improve immediate patient care but also raises questions about how to balance technological advancements with the ethical considerations and practicalities of implementing them in a complex medical landscape.

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