Watson converting supercomputing ability to medical questions
Superstars on "Jeopardy!" were beat by the supercomputer Watson. The International Business Machines team in charge of Watson used "Jeapordy!" to demonstrate the problem-solving capability of the computer. That problem-solving ability is now getting used to aid in healthcare diagnostics. Watson's diagnostic abilities are still being tested. One of the most unique features of the supercomputer is that it will consider information for instance personal blogs in diagnostic estimations.
The capability for Watson to solve problems
The reason why the International Business Machines supercomputer, Watson, was built was not to solve problems. It was so he could win "Jeopardy!" at some point. To be able to do that, the computer was programmed with millions of pieces of information, deciphered natural language and created a list of possible answers to a question. Some of the biggest stars of the show went against Watson. The supercomputer won. Since Watson has to understand natural language, it is even more amazing that he has been able to problem solve. There are a ton of possibilities brought forth with the "probability engine" style of problem-solving. This means more than just one answer to an issue is considered.
Filling Watson with information in the healthcare field
Winning "Jeopardy!" was not the only goal for Watson. The programmers thought it would be a good idea if he could help in the healthcare field in the future. This is something that is actually taking place now. Instead of the library of encyclopedias, movie scripts and historical information, Watson is being fed medical journals and diagnostic manuals. Columbia University healthcare researchers are assisting with training Watson for medical use, and healthcare students are feeding the computer hypothetical patients in order to test the diagnostic algorithms. Watson gives possible diagnoses and treatments after being given a list of symptoms. Allergies and other complicated symptoms could be considered by Watson also.
Medical discoveries being considered
Any newly accessible information is effortlessly given to Watson which is a big benefit. Watson's programmers are considering the possibility of adding medical blogs and off-label drug utilizes to Watson's database. These pieces of information could help diagnose difficult diseases or suggest treatments that doctors may or may not have heard of. It is also easier for Watson to diagnose a patient. All information will be integrated and not left out. Doctors will still be necessary though. Doctors will be able to take Watson's suggested possibilities and make final determinations concerning courses of treatment for their patients. International Business Machines engineers are researching how to create "Watson portals" that doctors could consult during the diagnostics for a patient, but in the end, the doctor and patient would be the ones to make the final call.
Articles cited
USA Today
usatoday.com/tech/news/2011-05-21-watson-medicine_n.htm
CBS News
cbsnews.com/8301-504763_162-20065277-10391704.html
