Artificial intelligence in the neonatal intensive care unit: the time is now.

Journal: Journal of perinatology : official journal of the California Perinatal Association
Published Date:

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) care by leveraging the large-scale, high-dimensional data that are generated by NICU patients. There is an emerging recognition that the confluence of technological progress, commercialization pathways, and rich data sets provides a unique opportunity for AI to make a lasting impact on the NICU. In this perspective article, we discuss four broad categories of AI applications in the NICU: imaging interpretation, prediction modeling of electronic health record data, integration of real-time monitoring data, and documentation and billing. By enhancing decision-making, streamlining processes, and improving patient outcomes, AI holds the potential to transform the quality of care for vulnerable newborns, making the excitement surrounding AI advancements well-founded and the potential for significant positive change stronger than ever before.

Authors

  • Kristyn Beam
    Department of Neonatology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
  • Puneet Sharma
    Digital Technologies and Innovation, Siemens Healthineers, Princeton, NJ, United States.
  • Phil Levy
    Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA.
  • Andrew L Beam
    Department of Biomedical Informatics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.