Step-by-step guide aims to help NHS deploy clinical AI
Annalise.ai head of sales EMEA Kevin Shah has written a blog providing a step-by-step guide to deploying clinical AI in the NHS. He explained why the company believes AI can help shift the reporting backlog. “We know radiologists need more support than ever to tackle the NHS backlog. Currently, only 24 per cent of NHS clinical directors believe they have sufficient radiologists to deliver safe and effective patient care.
“We are failing to meet the needs of the NHS in reducing current backlogs, given the countrywide workforce shortage of radiologists, who require between 16 and 20 years of training. AI solutions such as Annalise.ai can provide stretched clinicians across the NHS with a second pair of eyes, allowing them to make fast, accurate diagnostic decisions with confidence.”
Results from NHS Grampian, where Annalise.ai technology is already deployed, found that using the solution reduced the time between chest x-ray assessment and start of lung cancer treatment by nine days, on average. On the back of these successful deployments, the company aims to provide this step-by-step guide on how NHS providers can succeed in integrating their AI solutions within their trusts.
“Before integrating AI solutions, it is important to understand what problem you are trying to overcome and how an AI solution can solve this, envisioning what success looks like,” Shah said. “Whatever the objective is, a deep discovery process ensures a tailored approach to each NHS trust’s needs. A key part of realising AI’s benefits is assembling champions who can drive this change internally and build trust among peers and team members. Engaging senior leaders and front-line staff in this dialogue can help clarify the vision and foster a supportive environment, creating a two-way communication channel.
“The fundamental phase of development and deployment requires close collaboration with IT teams to ensure seamless integration with existing systems. Ongoing monitoring is crucial for continual improvement, allowing NHS teams to evaluate performance and communicate with the AI provider following deployment,” continued Shah. “This can sustain progress and ensure the AI system delivers maximum long-term value for the NHS trust.”
Picture: Annalise.ai technology supports radiologists in their work.
Published on page 4 of the July 2024 issue of RAD Magazine.
