The problem-solving computer Watson has surely proven itself. “Jeopardy!” competition demonstrated that Watson is able to parse natural-language questions and come up with answers that are usually, though not always, right. Healthcare questions are the newest target of the supercomputer. The problem-solving capability of Watson should, in theory, be able to provide succinct answers to healthcare diagnostic inquiries. Still in the test phases, Watson’s diagnostics programming may research every little thing from personal blogs to new research.
How Watson solves problems
Winning “Jeopardy!” was the primary goal for the International Business Machines supercomputer, Watson. The program was given a ton of information in order to develop answers to questions when asked them. In the showdown against two of the game show’s biggest stars, Watson won handily. Watson’s problem-solving ability is especially unique because it requires an understanding of natural language that can be very difficult to program into computers. There are a ton of possibilities brought forth with the “probability engine” style of problem-solving. This means more than just one answer to an issue is considered.
Watson plans to help with medical troubles
The programmers that created Watson decided that he would be better off in the healthcare field than just winning “Jeopardy!” once or twice. Now, that is going to become a reality. It has only been a few months though. Rather than the library of encyclopedias, film scripts and historical information, Watson is being fed healthcare journals and diagnostic manuals. Medical researchers have been helping get Watson ready at Columbia University. Healthcare students have been testing him with hypothetical students. Watson gives possible diagnoses and treatments after being given a list of symptoms. Watson will even consider narcotic allergies and complicating symptoms.
New information availability
One of the biggest benefits of Watson’s ability to digest all accessible information is the inclusion of newly available information. Programmers are considering adding medical blogs to Watson’s database. They’re also considering adding off-label narcotic utilizes. Diagnosing a patient will become more accurate. Doctors will have options for treatment they might never have considered. Watson’s diagnostic capability also has the benefit of not forgetting leaving out any piece of information. It will still be essential to have a doctor. A machine can’t replace a doctor’s care. Doctors have to make the final opinion on treatment for patients after considering what Watson has suggested. Doctors could consult “Watson portals” if IBM engineers can get it prepared. In the end, it will all be up to the doctor and patient though.
Articles cited
USA Today
usatoday.com/tech/news/2011-05-21-watson-medicine_n.htm
CBS News
cbsnews.com/8301-504763_162-20065277-10391704.html
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