AI-enhanced healthcare management during natural disasters: conceptual insights

Abstract

Natural disasters often lead to significant disruptions in healthcare delivery, exacerbating the already formidable challenges faced by healthcare systems. Leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) offers a promising approach to mitigate these challenges and enhance healthcare management during and after natural disasters. This conceptual paper aims to propose a framework for the integration of AI into disaster response efforts, with a focus on optimizing resource allocation, improving patient triage, and enhancing overall system resilience.  Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, this paper identifies the gaps in current disaster management practices and explores the potential of AI to address these shortcomings. By analyzing case studies and examples from previous disasters, the paper highlights the transformative impact that AI technologies such as predictive analytics, machine learning, and robotics can have on healthcare delivery in crisis situations. The objectives of this paper are twofold: to define a strategic approach for incorporating AI into disaster response protocols and to outline the expected outcomes of implementing such a framework. Expected benefits include expedited triage processes, more accurate resource allocation, and improved communication systems, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and enhanced system efficiency. The proposed framework emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between healthcare professionals, technologists, policymakers, and disaster response experts. It also addresses ethical considerations and potential challenges associated with AI implementation in disaster settings. In conclusion, this paper underscores the critical role of AI in bolstering healthcare management capabilities during natural disasters. By leveraging AI technologies, healthcare systems can become more adaptive, responsive, and resilient in the face of unforeseen challenges, ultimately saving lives and minimizing the impact of disasters on communities. Keywords: AI-Enhanced Healthcare Management, Natural Disasters, Conceptual Insights.