Epic Systems, a $4.6 billion health records giant, is developing a suite of 60 generative AI tools, including a prototype coding assistant powered by GPT-4, to streamline medical coding processes in hospitals. While the AI tool can suggest codes, it still requires human oversight and calibration due to potential inaccuracies. Epic aims to alleviate the burden on clinicians and address staffing shortages in healthcare through generative AI applications, but human touch remains crucial for complex cases. The company's incumbent advantage and partnerships with Microsoft and startup Abridge position it as a key player in the evolving landscape of AI in healthcare.
Electronic health records company Epic is utilizing AI and ambient listening technology to enhance patient-provider interactions. The AI tools developed by Epic allow physicians to generate progress notes from patient-provider conversations, draft responses to patient questions, and provide updates on patient information since their last visit. The outcomes of implementing these AI tools include significant time savings for physicians, improved documentation quality, and more empathetic responses to patients. Epic is also using AI to assist with medical coding, streamlining the coding workflow and reducing administrative overhead for healthcare organizations.
A recent change in medical coding for breast reconstruction surgeries is causing concerns for patients and doctors. The change groups DIEP flap reconstruction surgery with other less advanced flap reconstruction surgeries, resulting in reduced insurance coverage for the former. While the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services claim that the change does not affect medical coverage for DIEP flap surgery, some private health insurers have already made changes to coverage. Patients are being asked to pay out of pocket for the surgery, which can cost up to $50,000. Advocacy groups are pushing for the change to be reversed to protect access for all patients.
