Smart Nation 2.0: Professor Joseph Sung on artificial intelligence in science

Summary

Professor Joseph S, Dean of Lee Kong Chan School of Medicine at NTU, discusses Singapore's $120 million investment in AI for science and medicine. He emphasizes the importance of integrating AI with domain expertise, particularly in clinical medicine, where AI can improve diagnosis and treatment. The funding will support clinical trials and implementation studies to build trust in AI among patients and ensure data security. As AI adoption grows, Singapore aims to stay competitive globally by advancing AI applications in healthcare, enhancing patient outcomes, and leading in technological innovation.

Takeaways

• 💡 Singapore is investing $120 million in AI research, particularly to build a strong research ecosystem and develop a bilingual talent pool proficient in AI and science.
• 🧠 Proficiency in AI and scientific expertise is essential, as AI is increasingly penetrating all aspects of life, especially in areas like clinical medicine.
• 👩‍⚕️ In medicine, AI can help make more accurate diagnoses and improve patient treatments, but only if healthcare professionals know how to leverage the technology.
• 🔬 The investment will support clinical trials to provide evidence that AI technology can lead to better outcomes for patients.
• 🏥 Beyond clinical trials, the funding will also go toward implementation studies to integrate AI into daily healthcare practices and ensure streamlined services.
• 🔒 Data security is a major concern for patients, who want to ensure their personal information is handled securely when used in AI applications.
• 👨‍⚕️ Patient trust in AI is crucial, and healthcare providers must use AI responsibly and reassure patients about the safety and accuracy of these technologies.
• 🤖 Patients are generally open to AI, but they show more concern when it comes to major decisions, like surgeries performed by AI-enabled robots.
• 🌍 Singapore is performing well globally in AI in science and healthcare, with strong governmental support and a careful approach to data use.
• 🚀 AI has the potential to benefit various industries, from diagnostics to pharmaceuticals, by advancing technologies like X-rays, CT scans, and robotics.

Q & A

Why is it necessary to be proficient in AI and also an expert in the field of science, according to Professor Joseph?

AI is penetrating all aspects of life, especially in science and medicine, where it can enhance decision-making, improve diagnosis accuracy, and offer better treatment. Being proficient in AI alongside expertise in science is essential to leverage AI's benefits and avoid being replaced by the technology.

How will the $120 million investment in AI be used in Singapore's smart nation initiative?

The investment will support building a vibrant research ecosystem and a bilingual talent pool proficient in AI and one domain in science. It will also fund clinical trials and implementation studies to provide evidence that AI can improve patient outcomes and streamline service delivery.

What are the key areas of focus for AI research in medicine according to the professor?

Key areas include conducting clinical trials to demonstrate AI's effectiveness in improving patient outcomes and performing implementation studies to ensure that AI technologies are seamlessly integrated into clinical practice.

What concerns do patients have about AI in medicine?

Patients are concerned about the accuracy of AI in recommending the best treatments and about the security of their personal data. They want to ensure that AI-based tools are reliable and that their privacy is protected.

How does Professor Joseph suggest addressing patient concerns about AI in medicine?

He suggests that clinical trials can demonstrate AI’s accuracy in treatment recommendations, while proper data security measures and transparency in AI usage can alleviate concerns about privacy and trust.

How receptive are patients to the use of AI in medical practice?

According to Professor Joseph, patients are generally receptive, especially when their doctors and nurses trust the AI tools. However, major decisions, like surgeries performed by AI-driven robots, can still provoke concerns among patients.

What impact will AI adoption have on Singapore in the global competition for science and healthcare innovation?

AI adoption will help Singapore stay competitive in areas like drug development, vaccines, diagnostics, and medical devices. By investing in AI, Singapore aims to stay at the forefront of healthcare and science innovation globally.

How is Singapore positioned globally in AI for science and medicine?

Singapore is ahead of many other countries, with a careful use of data and significant government investment in AI research. This positions the country to lead advancements in AI in the healthcare and science sectors.

How will AI impact the broader healthcare and science industries?

AI can benefit industries involved in diagnostics, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices by improving the accuracy and capabilities of tools like x-rays, CT scans, and robotic surgeries, ultimately advancing patient care.

What are the next steps for AI development in Singapore's healthcare sector?

The next steps include conducting more research and clinical trials, improving implementation studies to ensure successful adoption, and gaining patient trust to ensure widespread acceptance of AI-driven tools in healthcare.