Tech Savvy

Watson Will See You Now: A Supercomputer to Help Clinicians Make Informed Treatment Decisions

Susan Doyle-Lindrud

cancer care
CJON 2015, 19(1), 31-32. DOI: 10.1188/15.CJON.31-32

IBM has collaborated with several cancer care providers to develop and train the IBM supercomputer Watson to help clinicians make informed treatment decisions. When a patient is seen in clinic, the oncologist can input all of the clinical information into the computer system. Watson will then review all of the data and recommend treatment options based on the latest evidence and guidelines. Once the oncologist makes the treatment decision, this information can be sent directly to the insurance company for approval. Watson has the ability to standardize care and accelerate the approval process, a benefit to the healthcare provider and the patient.

At a Glance

  • Cognitive technology will increasingly play a role in cancer care.
  • Cognitive technology is being used and refined by various comprehensive cancer centers around the United States.
  • This new technology has the potential to provide all clinicians working in oncology with the latest practice guidelines and clinical trial availability.
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