• Health Tech

Google Health Unveils New Tech to Enhance Access to Care and Health Outcomes

April 10, 2023

Recently, Google Health announced the launch of its cutting-edge digital solutions designed to transform the healthcare sector, highlighting the company’s dedication to enhancing patient care and streamlining healthcare operations.

“The future of health is consumer-driven,” said Karen DeSalvo, Chief Health Officer at Google.

The Future of Health: A Consumer-Driven Approach

Google Health recognizes that the future of healthcare is centered around consumers. Karen DeSalvo, Chief Health Officer at Google, emphasized the increasing expectation for a mobile-first experience with personalized insights, services, and care. 

To meet these evolving needs, Google aims to adapt and innovate, leverage their existing technologies as well as AI to empower individuals in managing their health.

Improved Search Functions During Medicaid Re-Enrollment

Google Health aims to assist Medicaid enrollees during the redetermination period, ensuring uninterrupted coverage. By enhancing search functions, Google will provide relevant information to guide users through the re-enrollment process. 

The company has also verified and validated the accuracy of data for numerous healthcare providers, including crucial details such as hours and contact information. Additionally, Google plans to collaborate with healthcare providers to simplify appointment bookings through its search function.

Google AI: Advancing Medical Insights for Physicians

The company’s AI-powered large language model, Med-PaLM 2, achieved exceptional performance on a US Medical Licensing Examination practice test. Alan Karthikesalingam, a senior staff clinician scientist and research lead at Google, revealed that Med-PaLM 2 scored at an “expert” level, reaching 85% accuracy. 

This breakthrough implies that the AI model can offer answers comparable to those provided by doctors, enabling physicians to receive reliable medical insights. However, Google emphasizes the importance of a physician interpreting the results to fill in gaps that the AI is not providing.

Ultrasound Technology: Enhancing Imaging Accessibility

Google Health is leveraging advancements in sensor technology to develop a handheld ultrasound device that offers clear instructions to healthcare providers. This portable and affordable technology provides guidance for administering ultrasounds, particularly beneficial in low-income countries and underserved areas. 

With precise instructions, healthcare professionals can accurately perform ultrasounds, leading to improved diagnostics and enhanced health outcomes for underserved areas in the world.

Partnerships for Global Impact

Google Health has established collaborations with renowned healthcare institutions worldwide. These include partnerships with Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taiwan for breast ultrasounds and Jacaranda Health in Kenya to improve maternal health outcomes. 

Through these alliances, Google aims to leverage its technology to drive positive change and expand access to quality healthcare globally.

Google Health’s recent tech offerings demonstrate the company’s commitment to improving access to care and enhancing health outcomes. By harnessing AI, refining search functions, and developing portable ultrasound technology, Google Health aims to empower individuals, support healthcare providers, and drive positive change in healthcare. These advancements hold significant potential for transforming the healthcare landscape and fostering a consumer-driven approach that prioritizes personalized care and improved patient experiences.