As we continue to progress into the 21st century, technology continues to make unprecedented advancements. One of the most exciting fields in this technological revolution is Artificial Intelligence. From self-driving cars to virtual assistants, AI is making its presence felt in every corner of our lives. But what exactly is Artificial Intelligence, and how does it work?
Imagine a world where machines can learn and adapt, just like humans. A world where they can make decisions, carry out tasks, and even interact with us like living beings. This is the world that AI is helping us create. As healthcare professionals, the potential of AI is especially exciting. From diagnosing illnesses to predicting patient outcomes, AI is revolutionizing the way we approach healthcare.
The recent release of the fourth generation of OpenAI’s AI service, ChatGPT, has caused a sudden surge in interest in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). As we explore the limitless potential and possible risks associated with this technology, we had the opportunity to speak with Stani Goma, General Manager at StrongRoom AI, to learn more about their own AI services.
Samer: Firstly, what does your company do?
Stani: Using artificial intelligence our drug management platforms reduce adverse drug events within the Pharmacy, Hospital and Aged Care Facility settings.
For pharmacies, our Gen 1 solution, Strong ER includes drug register, staged supply, and opioid-replacement features: resulting in maximised automation.
The software has been approved across all states in Australia.
Gen 2 is where we are looking at. We can better use the data available to make it easier to identify services that may benefit the patient, rather than relying only on the intuition of the pharmacist that is on duty.
Our solution can conduct a sophisticated analysis of the impact of a range of factors on adherence. These may include demographics, medical conditions and social determinants of health, and then present this to the pharmacist in a clear and logical manner.
Whereas most of this type of assessment would rely on the pharmacist’s intuition or done retrospectively, our system is now capable of being predictive and prospective – in a seamless fashion.
Samer: What are the benefits of using STRONG ER to the retail pharmacy when dispensing Opioid Therapy Program (OTP)?
Stani: Well, there are many benefits, including:
Efficiency: The first is that of efficiency. We can report 80% efficiency not only in terms of supply, but generating reports, managing stock, managing errors, identifying discrepancies, and of course regulatory compliance. It really amplifies time-saving efficiencies.
Single Platform: A single platform that brings together the electronic control drug register, the opioid replacement therapy module, and the staged supply. All this is bundled as a single subscription that covers these modules giving a cost saving as well. There is no need to juggle multiple applications. One place to run the entire program.
The advanced facial recognition module of the program will ensure no errors are made by the pharmacist in terms of who is being given the medication, the dosage and the recording of the date and time of administration. All this is done automatically, and this is especially beneficial for when a locum pharmacist is in charge of the ORT program, as there will be no room for error.
Samer: What about the risks of using such digital and AI products to the pharmacy and the patient?
Stani: The risks are extremely limited. The risk needs to be understood and put into context. The risk is around the potential misuse of information.
Keep in mind the pharmacy and the patient can both choose to use the facial recognition module, but also bear in mind a photograph is already required.
But how might the facial recognition feature be misused? Well there are significant safeguards in place to ensure that any misuse is restricted – ensuring such information is site specific and not able to be misused.
Either way, we believe the significant benefits of ensuring correct supply is much higher than any risks that could be considered. And really, no additional information is being requested to run this software.
Really, the only risk is the additional cost to the pharmacy such as the purchase of good camera to run the module, otherwise, really, any risk is mitigated by the safeguards in place.
Samer: Where do you see this going in the future in terms of AI use?
Stani: We need to embrace this technology, as this is the future, and we can envisage that it can potentially assist clinical decision-making in a very short of time.
And even where you might be dispensing a prescription, the predictive nature of AI can then give suggestions as you dispense – making suggestions of services to help improve patient outcomes.
This puts the health professional, especially pharmacists, in a very much more useful and meaningful position than ever before.
Samer: Why should locum pharmacists be aware of such a product and know how to use it?
Stani: Very soon we will get to the position where 1 in 5 pharmacies will be using this product, and so it will be important for locum pharmacists to be able to say that yes we know how to use this! Otherwise, they may be restricting their ability to work in different locations.
Also, for pharmacies, they too should be aware of the new technologies available and consider using them, their benefits are significantly increasing efficiency, reducing errors, and providing a state-of-the-art workplace where the staff will enjoy working there rather than being left behind the times.
Samer: Stani it has been a pleasure talking to you, and we look forward to seeing how your product develops over time!
In a world where efficiency, accuracy, and speed are paramount, StrongRoom.ai has emerged as a game-changer in the healthcare industry. The advanced facial recognition module and other innovative features of the program offer significant benefits, including maximized automation, reduced errors, and increased efficiency. As we continue to embrace the power of AI, it’s clear that products like StrongRoom.ai are paving the way for a brighter, more connected future. So as a locum pharmacist, it may just be time to embrace the future of healthcare with StrongRoom.ai!
We hope to be working with Strongroom.ai to bring to you some training videos on how to use their service in the very near future, or you can visit their website for updates.
