An artificial intelligence (AI) patient navigator called MyEleanor is helping reduce disparities in colon cancer screening by re-engaging underserved patients who have missed or cancelled colonoscopy appointments, according to a study presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting.
The research, led by Dr. Alyson Moadel of Montefiore cancer center in the Bronx, New York, analyzed 2,400 patients, many of whom were people of color, low-income, and born outside the United States. These communities often face barriers to screening and treatment, leading to later-stage diagnoses and worse outcomes.
MyEleanor, which communicates with patients in both English and Spanish, aims to optimize outreach to vulnerable populations and facilitate more efficient and equitable healthcare. The AI tool engages patients in personalized conversations to help overcome obstacles and encourage them to reschedule missed appointments.
Dr. Fumiko Chino of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center emphasized the importance of this initiative in improving early cancer detection and decreasing colon cancer disparities in minority populations living in inner cities.
The study highlights the potential for conversational AI to address gaps in cancer screening and care among underrepresented groups, ultimately working towards reducing health inequities.
See “AI Patient Navigator Reduces Disparities in Colon Cancer Screening” (June 1, 2024)
