Google’s AI revolution in healthcare: Innovations that save lives

Google has outlined several ways artificial intelligence (AI) is being leveraged to enhance healthcare services.

From improving health-related search results to aiding biomedical research, AI-driven advancements are shaping the future of medical technology, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

The following report analyses how Google has detailed AI applications in healthcare.

1. Enhancing health search results

Google has integrated AI-powered overviews into its Search feature, providing more relevant and credible health information. Since the introduction of AI Overviews, users have demonstrated greater satisfaction, particularly when searching for information on common and rare health conditions. By incorporating recent advancements in its Gemini models, Google ensures these AI-generated insights meet high standards of clinical accuracy. Additionally, the company continues to expand knowledge panels on health topics while incorporating AI-based ranking systems to enhance search relevance.

A new feature, “What People Suggest,” uses AI to organise online discussions into thematic insights. This allows users to gain perspectives from people with similar health conditions, facilitating a more comprehensive understanding of medical issues. Initially launched in the U.S. for mobile devices, this feature demonstrates AI’s potential in democratising health information.

2. Medical records APIs in health connect

Google has launched Medical Records APIs globally within Health Connect, allowing users to consolidate medical data from different apps. This includes critical health information such as allergies, medications, immunisations, and lab results, all stored in the standard FHIR format. The system integrates over 50 data types, spanning activity, sleep, nutrition, vitals, and medical records. Importantly, Google prioritises user control, ensuring that data is stored locally and allowing users to regulate app permissions for sharing sensitive medical information.

3. Loss of pulse detection

Google’s Pixel Watch 3 features an AI-driven Loss of Pulse Detection system, which recently received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This innovative function can detect pulse cessation due to medical emergencies like cardiac arrest, circulatory failure, or overdose. If the user is unresponsive, the device can automatically prompt emergency services. Initially launched in Europe, this feature is now being rolled out in the U.S., exemplifying AI’s role in life-saving medical technologies.

4. AI co-scientist for biomedical research

Google has developed an AI co-scientist tool using Gemini 2.0 to assist researchers in hypothesis generation and research planning. This system aids biomedical researchers by analysing vast scientific literature and formulating novel, testable hypotheses. Collaborating with institutions like Imperial College London, Houston Methodist, and Stanford University, the AI co-scientist streamlines data analysis, accelerating medical research.

5. TxGemma: AI in drug discovery

Google introduced TxGemma, an AI-powered model designed to enhance drug discovery. TxGemma understands therapeutic structures such as small molecules, chemicals, and proteins, enabling researchers to predict the safety and efficacy of potential treatments. By reducing the time and cost of drug development, this initiative is set to revolutionise pharmaceutical research.

6. AI in pediatric oncology treatment

In collaboration with the Princess Máxima Center in the Netherlands, Google is supporting the development of Capricorn, an AI-driven tool for personalised cancer treatment. By synthesising public medical data with de-identified patient information, Capricorn generates rapid treatment summaries, facilitating better clinical decision-making.

Thus, Google’s AI initiatives in healthcare demonstrate the technology’s transformative potential. By enhancing medical search capabilities, integrating health records, supporting life-saving monitoring systems, and aiding medical research, AI is revolutionising patient care. 

By Aghakazim Guliyev