Artificial intelligence is stepping into hospitals and clinics across the Czech Republic, transforming both administrative and clinical routines. It’s not just about efficiency—it’s about saving lives. AI is now widely used in diagnostics, especially for analyzing images from X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, and mammograms. These tools act as a "second pair of eyes" for doctors, helping spot even the tiniest tumors that might escape human notice. In breast cancer screening, AI has become an essential partner, supporting radiologists with high-speed, high-precision analysis.

Another growing area is AI-assisted detection of diabetic retinopathy, a serious eye condition linked to diabetes. This tool is even covered by public health insurance—one of the few AI applications in Czech healthcare to receive such support. In stroke centers, 23 specialized facilities now use AI systems to assist with urgent diagnosis, where speed is crucial. Surgeons also embrace AI, using it to assess X-rays when a radiologist isn't readily available. Some advanced systems can even monitor operations in real time, identifying warning signs and enhancing patient safety.

While AI can outperform the human eye in many ways, it’s still a tool, not a decision-maker. The final call remains with the doctor. Studies show that AI tools in Czech clinics can increase cancer detection rates by over 10%, meaning one in ten cases might be missed without it. Local innovations like Carebot and KardiAI lead the charge, analyzing everything from lung scans to heart rhythms. AI is also expected to reduce the paperwork that burdens doctors, freeing up time for patient care.

But challenges remain. AI systems are expensive to implement and only start showing cost savings after 5 to 10 years. There are concerns about data privacy, the spread of false information through deep fakes, and the potential loss of the personal touch in patient care. Oversight is essential, especially since not all tools are certified for medical use. Experts agree: AI must be carefully managed to keep the human heart of medicine beating strong.

Czech patients are warming up to AI, some even faster than doctors. Trust in these technologies will grow as long as transparency and education remain priorities. The future might see new roles like “health life assistants” guiding us daily. With careful integration and ethical use, AI can make Czech healthcare smarter, faster, and more human than ever before.

Presented by the CzechTrade team in Chicago, USA

Source: https://www.e15.cz/