It’s hard to ignore the current momentum surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) in health care. After all, virtually every industry publication and conference features discussions about AI. When I think about AI, I don’t just think about high-level applications, such as aiding in diagnosis, I think about how it can support the core challenges our teams face—especially in the areas where small inefficiencies can lead to missed opportunities in both patient care and practice growth. Here, I discuss these areas.
Social Media and Content Planning
Narrow AI, such as ChatGPT, can help create tailored messaging for social media posts and assist in developing a video content strategy. This allows us to consistently share our clinical expertise and promote our services without burdening our already busy team.
Practice Marketing Materials
Whether it’s digital displays in exam rooms or printed brochures, Narrow AI can also assist in generating content that resonates with patients and clearly communicates our offerings—from advanced diagnostics, to specialty contact lens services (see this month’s “Artificial Intelligence” column online).
Event Planning and Promotion
Hosting in-office events to showcase new products or services? Narrow AI can help generate ideas, draft invitations, and even segment our patient lists for targeted outreach.
Multilingual Patient Support
Translating intake forms and practice documents can be time-consuming. Narrow AI-driven translation tools can quickly and accurately convert materials into multiple languages, improving accessibility and patient satisfaction.
Smart Call Management
This is my personal favorite application of AI. A patient’s first phone call is often their introduction to one’s office culture. A missed call, a rushed tone, or a delayed response can have a lasting negative impact. This is where AI becomes truly meaningful. Specifically, intelligent virtual agents—properly trained and integrated—can manage basic inquiries, schedule appointments, and even perform initial patient triage. Additionally, this application can operate 24/7, ensuring our practices maintain a professional presence even outside business hours.
The Big Picture
AI is not here to replace us. It’s here to support us—to make our practices more efficient, more responsive, and more aligned with the high standards of care we strive to deliver every day. By reducing the burden of administrative tasks, we free up time, energy, and resources—empowering our teams, enhancing the patient experience, and ultimately strengthening the practice. OM
Email: dr@apriljasper.com
X: @DrAprilJasper
Facebook: @OptometricManagement
