Medical expert systems are the latest manifestation of artificial intelligence that has been known to mankind since the 1970s. We can say that this is a computer program that replaces a specialist in the field of medicine, makes a diagnosis by processing the available data.
The described technology is based only on a comparison of certain data and norms, it carries out a formula calculation of certain components and as a result produces a result - a diagnosis.
It should be noted that expert systems are an imperfect model that does not take into account many factors, due to which errors may arise in the formation of the final result.
This program can work in two main modes: data entry and processing (or consulting). In the first case, the doctor enters direct data about the patient, the results of analyzes and examinations, and the conclusions of specialists. This mode is used by many to store information and quickly reproduce it. This function is convenient for the doctor, because at the right time you can compare the results of all tests, thereby observing the dynamics of the disease.
Expert systems in consultation mode are a “dialogue” between a doctor and a machine. In this mode, you can get a possible list of diseases suitable for all the symptoms that a patient has. This greatly simplifies the task of the doctor and allows you to quickly make a diagnosis. In communication mode, the system shows which tests are not enough and which tests need to be repeated. The doctor compares all the data with the patient’s complaints and his medical history, resulting in a diagnosis.
In medicine, there are reference programs close to ES, which, upon specific requests, give information to the doctor. Often this is enough to determine the tactics of treatment and management of the patient.
Expert systems have one of the main differences from common data processing systems: they have a sign or symbolic character, and not a numerical one. Artificial intelligence is not at all aimed at destroying the traditional approach in medicine, but even vice versa. Today, all efforts are aimed at ensuring that the new technologies and medical workers have the strongest ties.
Expert systems in medicine are aimed at solving the most complex problems, treating the most complex patients and searching for the most hidden diseases. Close interaction and the ability to correctly interpret the data obtained with the help of artificial intelligence will allow medicine to take a step forward, it is possible to find a cure for previously hopeless diseases.
This power of new technologies is due to the ability to invest in them a huge amount of information that the human brain is not able to remember . Accordingly, on the basis of all the data, a computer can find a number of diseases that are suitable for the existing symptoms much faster than a person can.
Expert systems are able to reason straightforwardly and accurately, guided by the available data. The task of the doctor in this situation is to compare these data with a specific individual situation and draw a conclusion.
ES features:
- accuracy;
- rapidity;
- limitedness to a specific area or structure;
- dependence on embedded information;
- creating a logical data chain;
- the ability to match large amounts of data.
Unfortunately, in practical medicine, these systems are not widely used. They are used in laboratory diagnostics to count data and to store information. We can say that developed countries are increasingly promoting this system of work, some diagnostic departments have already been created, equipped with ES for practical activities (mainly cardiology).