In a groundbreaking move, the Information Systems (IS) and nursing departments at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) have joined forces to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and address pressing healthcare challenges. This innovative collaboration, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 3 on "Good Health and Well-being," is poised to create a new way of thinking of how technology and healthcare intersect.
Recognizing the immense potential of AI to enhance healthcare delivery, the interdisciplinary teams have embarked on a series of design thinking workshops. Led by Dr. Fazlyn Petersen, the IS module coordinator, and supported by her fellow lecturer Sarel Viljoen and teaching assistant, the workshops bring together third-year IS students from the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (EMS) and nursing staff from the Faculty of Community and Health Sciences (CHS). "This collaboration is a testament to the transformative power of interdisciplinary innovation," explains Dr. Petersen. "By bridging the gap between technology and healthcare, we aim to develop AI-powered solutions that truly meet the needs of our end-users – nursing staff, students and patients.
Dr Petersen facilitated the design thinking workshop with IS students and Nursing staff.
Under the guidance of Professor Jennifer Chipps, Jeffrey Hoffman, and Lindy Van Der Berg from the School of Nursing at UWC, the teams have already developed a suite of AI chatbot prototypes targeting diverse healthcare challenges. These chatbots, designed to serve as comprehensive resources, address issues ranging from navigating cancer care and managing dietary requirements for celiac disease to optimising dental health and empowering women in reproductive health.
The AI chatbot prototypes already developed by IS students can be viewed here: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7181953159710314496/
Funanani Mugagadeli, a Computer Science student, shares her experience: "As part of my Information Systems 361 coursework, I applied design thinking principles to create a chatbot that serves as a gateway to information on contraceptives and female reproductive health. By empathising with my users' needs, I was able to develop a solution that raises awareness and empowers women to make informed decisions.
The core philosophy driving this collaboration is one of user-centered design. By understanding the needs and pain points of healthcare professionals, students, and patients, the teams are committed to developing AI solutions that are not only highly effective but also intuitive and accessible."This convergence of Information Systems and nursing expertise ushers in a new era of healthcare innovation," says Professor Chipps. "By bridging the gap between technology and healthcare, we are cultivating a generation of professionals equipped to navigate the ever-evolving intersection of these domains."
As the collaboration continues to unfold, its impact is set to transcend the boundaries of the university. Each AI chatbot developed and healthcare challenge confronted reaffirms the collective commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies in service of improved health outcomes for all.
"This initiative is a testament to the power of interdisciplinary collaboration," concludes Jeffrey Hoffman. "By uniting diverse disciplines, we are creating solutions that have the potential to transform the healthcare landscape, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more equitable future".
