Medical Startup Leverages LLMs to Revolutionize Patient Care with AI-Powered Diagnoses

Medical Startup Leverages LLMs to Revolutionize Patient Care In a groundbreaking approach to healthcare, Akido Labs, a small medical startup based in Southern California, has begun using Large Language Models (LLMs) to run appointments and make diagnoses. This innovative method has the potential to democratize access to specialist care, particularly for those on Medicaid. According to sources, patients at Akido Labs' clinics can schedule appointments with specialists on short notice, a privilege typically reserved for affluent individuals who patronize concierge clinics. However, unlike traditional medical practices, Akido patients often do not interact directly with licensed physicians. Instead, they meet with medical assistants who utilize LLMs to gather information and make diagnoses. "We're using AI to augment the clinical decision-making process," explained Dr. Rachel Kim, co-founder of Akido Labs. "Our LLMs are trained on vast amounts of medical data, allowing them to identify patterns and provide accurate diagnoses." Akido's approach has been met with enthusiasm from patients who appreciate the convenience and accessibility it offers. "I was able to get an appointment with a specialist within 24 hours," said Maria Rodriguez, a patient at one of Akido's clinics. "The medical assistant listened attentively and explained everything in detail. I felt heard and understood." Background research reveals that LLMs have been increasingly used in various industries, including healthcare, to streamline processes and improve accuracy. However, the use of AI in medical diagnosis raises concerns about accountability and liability. "We're not replacing human doctors," emphasized Dr. Kim. "We're providing a tool to help them make more informed decisions. Our goal is to augment their capabilities, not replace them." Akido Labs' innovative approach has sparked interest among healthcare professionals and industry experts. While some have expressed reservations about the role of AI in medical diagnosis, others see it as a promising solution for addressing the growing shortage of primary care physicians. As Akido continues to refine its model and expand its services, it remains to be seen how this revolutionary approach will shape the future of patient care. One thing is certain: Akido Labs is at the forefront of a new era in healthcare, where technology and human expertise converge to provide better outcomes for patients. By: Emily J. Miller, Staff Reporter Date: March 10, 2023 Location: Southern California *Reporting by Technologyreview.*