What are the benefits and challenges of using AI or automation tools for physician order review and feedback?

1 How AI or automation tools can help

AI or automation tools can help streamline the physician order review and feedback process by using data, algorithms, and machine learning to analyze, validate, and optimize orders. For example, they can flag potential errors, duplications, or contradictions in orders, suggest alternative or complementary options, and provide evidence-based recommendations and rationales. They can also automate some of the administrative tasks, such as documenting, coding, and billing, and facilitate communication and coordination among providers and patients.

2 Benefits of using AI or automation tools

Using AI or automation tools for physician order review and feedback can have several benefits for both providers and patients. For providers, they can save time, reduce workload, enhance quality and safety, and support clinical decision making. For patients, they can improve outcomes, satisfaction, and adherence, and reduce costs and risks. Additionally, using AI or automation tools can generate valuable insights and data that can inform quality improvement, research, and policy initiatives.

3 Challenges of using AI or automation tools

Despite the potential benefits, using AI or automation tools for physician order review and feedback also poses some challenges and limitations. For instance, they may require significant investment, integration, and maintenance, as well as adequate training and support for users. They may also raise ethical, legal, and social issues, such as privacy, security, accountability, and trust. Moreover, they may not be able to capture the nuances, complexities, and variations of clinical practice and patient preferences, and may introduce new errors or biases.

5 Best practices and tips

To make the most of using AI or automation tools for physician order review and feedback, it’s important to choose the right tool for your needs and goals, evaluating its validity, accuracy, and usability. Integrating the tool into your workflow and culture, and aligning it with existing systems is essential. Educating yourself and your team on how to use the tool effectively and safely, seeking feedback from experts and peers is also important. Communicating clearly and respectfully with colleagues and patients about the role and value of the tool, addressing any concerns or questions they may have is necessary. Additionally, review and update the tool regularly, reporting any issues or errors that you encounter is key.