FHC #149: Tech needs to get out of the way of healthcare, says Feinberg

In the second episode of Fixing Healthcare’s 10th season, cohosts Dr. Robert Pearl and Jeremy Corr welcome back Dr. David Feinberg, chairman of Oracle Health, for a discussion centered on the future of technology in medicine.

Given the season’s focus on transformative technologies in medicine, Dr. Feinberg brings a wealth of experience as the former CEO of Cerner, VP of Google Health, and CEO of Geisinger Health.

As Dr. Pearl has highlighted throughout the season, technology—including artificial intelligence—is becoming a pivotal force in healthcare. His own book on the subject, ChatGPT, MD: How AI-Empowered Patients & Doctors Can Take Back Control of American Medicine, explores this theme in great detail, and it debuted on the list of Amazon’s Top New Releases. All profits from Pearl’s book benefit Doctors Without Borders.

During the interview, Dr. Feinberg shares his thoughts on the three most important technological developments in healthcare over the next five to 10 years:

1. Technology stepping aside: Dr. Feinberg says one of the most critical advances in healthcare will involve technology getting “out of the way” of the doctor-patient relationship. He notes that while innovations have advanced healthcare, they often interfere with the time and connection between clinicians and their patients. Feinberg envisions a future where technology is present but not disruptive, allowing physicians to focus on their patients rather than on navigating electronic systems.

2. AI’s role in anticipatory medicine: Like many healthcare leaders, Feinberg identifies artificial intelligence as a major player in the future of healthcare. However, he offers a unique perspective by discussing AI’s potential beyond current applications like diagnostics and documentation. He predicts that AI will develop anticipatory abilities, allowing clinicians to foresee medical issues and prevent serious health problems. This could allow doctors to say to patients, “If we don’t get this [health issues] in order, the computer is telling us you won’t make it to your grandchild’s college graduation,” helping patients take critical action before it’s too late.

3. The power of the cloud: Here, Feinberg highlights the immense potential of cloud technology. He explains how the cloud can significantly enhance healthcare, particularly in terms of cybersecurity and data management. By leveraging cloud systems, hospitals can not only protect sensitive patient data but also streamline operations, enabling more effective analysis and use of healthcare information across platforms.

Tune in for the full interview and join the conversation on social media.

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Fixing Healthcare is a co-production of Dr. Robert Pearl and Jeremy Corr. Subscribe to the show via Apple, Spotify, Stitcher or wherever you find podcasts. Join the conversation or suggest a guest by following the show on Twitter and LinkedIn.

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