Can Artificial Intelligence Improve Chronic Disease Management?
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has sparked both optimism and fear in various sectors, including healthcare. For individuals living with chronic diseases like myasthenia gravis (MG), AI presents a complex picture of potential benefits and risks. As a freelance digital marketer living with MG, Sarah Bendiff shares her personal experience of how AI has impacted her disease management and work life.
Positive Impacts of AI on Disease Management
AI has significantly improved accessibility for Sarah, who suffers from fatigue in her wrists and fingers due to MG. Voice-to-text features powered by generative AI have revolutionized her work as a digital marketer. This technology not only converts speech into text but also helps shape ideas, conduct research faster, and tailor language for different audiences. The reduction in screen time has also alleviated eye strain and fatigue.
In the medical sphere, AI has empowered Sarah to better understand her condition. Using ChatGPT to explain complex medical terms and diagnoses in simple language has reduced anxiety and confusion after doctor appointments. This tool has become invaluable in helping her comprehend her MG and the associated medical jargon.
Moreover, AI has provided Sarah with emotional support during difficult times. When symptoms flare up or anxiety runs high, she finds comfort in using AI apps to organize her thoughts or simply vent. While not a replacement for human conversation, this interaction helps calm her down and provides reminders to breathe.
Risks and Concerns Associated with AI
Despite the benefits, Sarah acknowledges the risks associated with relying on AI for medical information. She has experienced unnecessary panic and incorrect self-diagnosis when attempting to “play doctor” using AI. This highlights the critical importance of not relying solely on AI for medical advice.
Another significant concern is job displacement. As AI tools begin to perform tasks that Sarah offers as a freelancer, such as email writing and content planning, the fear of losing her livelihood grows. For individuals with chronic illnesses, remote and freelance work have been lifelines, allowing them to work despite their conditions. The potential for AI to erase these opportunities is a daunting prospect.
The Future of AI in Healthcare
Sarah emphasizes that while AI is not perfect, it has already made a positive impact on her life. It has improved her daily management of MG, supported her emotional health, and enabled her to continue working. The potential for AI to evolve healthcare is vast, with possibilities including better diagnostics, smarter hospital management, and more personalized treatments.
The key to harnessing the benefits of AI for the chronic illness and disability community lies in making it inclusive, not just efficient. By focusing on tools that provide independence, control, and reduced exhaustion, AI can become a valuable ally. As Sarah notes, perfection is not required; what is needed are tools that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.
