Information Technology in Primary Care Screenings: Ready for Prime Time?

PLAIN-LANGUAGE SUMMARY

Editorial

To Improve Screenings With Technology, Focus on People First

Background: Four original research studies published in Annals of Family Medicine illustrate valuable concepts to consider when incorporating technology in screening to improve early detection and management of disease.           

Editorial Stance:These studies highlight the importance of centering digital health intervention on the patients and their specific clinical needs. The authors emphasize that digital tools work best when they work with, rather than replace, clinicians, and that we must remember the human element while integrating digital tools into clinical practice. Even if digital tools work flawlessly to detect problems, barriers like lack of care coordination can still prevent follow-up. When that happens, it doesn’t lead to meaningful improvement.

Why It Matters:AI has the potential to boost the Quintuple Aims of improved patient experience: better outcomes, lower cost, clinician well-being, and health equity. Primary care clinicians, researchers, and health system stakeholders can ensure this happens by creating focused solutions that address the needs of patients and support clinical teams. 

Information Technology in Primary Care Screenings: Ready for Prime Time? 

Masahito Jimbo, MD, PhD, MPH, FAAFP, et al

Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois