Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the landscape of modern healthcare, but experts warn that its implementation requires a cautious and calculated approach, especially when dealing directly with patients.

At the forefront of this transformation is Emory Healthcare, Georgia’s largest medical system, which is part of Emory University and is pioneering AI-driven initiatives.

Participating as a keynote speaker at Medical Korea 2025 on Thursday, Alistair Erskine, Chief Information and Digital Officer (CIO/CDO) at Emory Healthcare emphasized the importance of a measured approach to AI adoption in healthcare during an interview with Korean reporters before the start of the convention.

“In the medical field, AI is applied very cautiously, considering its interaction with patients,” Erskine said. “Rather than making direct decisions about patient treatment, AI is first being utilized to support administrative functions and improve efficiency.”

Erskine, a pediatrician and business management expert, spearheaded Emory Healthcare’s ambitious AI-based ecosystem project last year, a $100 million investment aimed at creating a seamless, patient-centered experience.

Among its key initiatives is an AI-powered transcription technology that converts doctor-patient conversations into medical records and AI-driven monitoring systems that use cameras to predict and prevent patient falls—a significant advancement in hospital safety.

“On average, it takes about 45 seconds from the moment a patient starts moving to when they actually fall,” Erskine explained. “With AI cameras in place, nurses can be alerted and reach the patient within 18 seconds, significantly reducing the risk of injuries.”

Another breakthrough in Emory Healthcare’s AI integration is real-time language translation for foreign patients.

AI-based software is being developed to translate doctors’ explanations instantly, eliminating the need for human interpreters.

“Currently, foreign patients require translators during consultations,” he said. “With AI, physicians can speak in English while the system immediately provides translations in the patient’s native language.”

This initiative aims to streamline international patient care and enhance the overall hospital experience, he added.

Erskine believes AI’s role extends beyond administrative support, with potential applications in clinical research and personalized treatment plans.

He highlighted AI’s ability to expedite drug approval processes through digital twin technology.

“AI can simulate clinical trials by predicting patient responses to new drugs, ultimately increasing the likelihood of U.S. FDA approval and shortening the regulatory timeline,” he noted.

Collaboration with global medical institutions is also a key aspect of Emory’s AI expansion.

“We are currently working with various organizations to leverage AI in clinical trials, patient management, and identifying optimal treatment methods,” Erskine said.

Despite AI’s promise, skepticism remains within the medical community as some AI technologies previously highlighted as a potential technology to change the industry are being delayed.

“There is a lot of skepticism about new and advanced technologies because they can sometimes yield unexpected results,” Erskine admitted.

He underscored the need for rigorous AI training and testing before full-scale implementation.

“It takes time for medical professionals to master new technologies through practice and training,” he said. “Similarly, AI requires extensive learning and adaptation, while ethical considerations, particularly regarding data privacy, also pose challenges.”

Still, Erskine outlined that Emory Healthcare is determined to continue integrating AI into its operations, focusing on simplifying healthcare processes and improving patient and provider experiences.

“Our goal is to scale AI systems so that they can be commercialized and widely used by patients worldwide,” Erskine said.