NHS surgeons have urged the adoption of robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) to overcome the ongoing crisis and future challenges faced by the health service. Waiting lists for routine treatment and complex surgeries have reached record highs this year, exacerbated by the pandemic and strikes by healthcare staff. Professor Naeem Soomro of the Royal College of Surgeons Council highlighted the huge demand for healthcare and emphasized that technology is the solution, especially considering the NHS staffing shortage. Robotics and AI can improve access to care and transform productivity by allowing multiple operations to be performed in a day, freeing up bed space and reducing hospital stays.
Some NHS trusts are already at the forefront of integrating technology into healthcare. For instance, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust completed a week’s worth of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy procedures in a single day using the Da Vinci robotic surgery system. Professor Soomro, who has experience using the system, explained that robotics have significantly improved bed usage, allowing for more operations to be conducted daily and some patients to go home on the same day. The system has been successfully used for kidney, prostate, and bladder cancer operations, with opportunities to expand its application to other specialties.
However, the use of robotics in healthcare extends beyond the operating theatre. Milton Keynes University Hospital, for example, has employed penguin-shaped androids to assist with hospital tasks such as moving paperwork and medicine. These robots, known as Milton, operate using AI technology and have been developed by British AI firm Academy of Robots. By automating repetitive tasks, the androids can significantly reduce the time spent by NHS staff on mundane activities, allowing them to focus on more important responsibilities.
Efficiency in healthcare technology is crucial, as a recent survey revealed that UK surgeons lose an average of four hours per week due to inefficient equipment. Improved technology could make healthcare delivery smoother and more streamlined. For example, a completely digital medical records system and the use of AI-powered virtual twins, which are 3D models of patients that help surgeons prepare for surgeries, could revolutionize care provision. Additionally, AI can automate administrative tasks and aid in diagnosis, as demonstrated by a pilot study where AI accurately categorized and interpreted X-rays, CT scans, and ultrasounds.
The need to embrace new technology in the NHS has gained recognition. In response to the challenges faced, the government has emphasized the importance of incorporating technology that saves staff time and improves patient care. They have pledged an additional £21 million to support the rollout of AI imaging tools, like Qure AI, across the NHS. It is believed that the use of AI can enhance patient care, enable timely diagnoses, and ultimately help save lives.
Overall, the adoption of robotics and AI in the NHS is viewed as a significant step towards resolving the crisis and preparing for future challenges. By leveraging these technologies, the healthcare system can improve access to care, increase productivity, and support healthcare professionals in providing better patient care. As technology continues to advance, it is crucial for the NHS to embrace these innovations to meet the growing demands and enhance healthcare delivery across the country.
