What’s the future of automation in fields that are traditionally more ‘hands-on’ like healthcare?

Question

As automation and AI continue to evolve, we’re starting to see them make their way into industries that have traditionally relied on human interaction – like for example healthcare.

But can AI truly replicate the empathy and personal connection that these fields require? I’d love to hear your thoughts on where automation might fit in these hands-on sectors and whether AI can ever truly replace the human touch.

Finn Archer · Accepted Answer

Would you trust an automated system for a diagnosis without human confirmation? I feel like most people would still prefer a human to explain and validate the results.

Answer

I think automation can help fill gaps in rural or underserved areas where access to healthcare professionals is limited. Even then, I’d want it paired with remote human oversight.

jusiy Waller · Answer

I see automation h see automation helping with precision tasks, like in surgeries or diagnostics. That said, a surgeon’s intuition and adaptability in unexpected scenarios feel irreplaceable to me.

Answer

I think automation can handle repetitive tasks like managing medical records or scheduling appointments. It leaves more room for professionals to focus on direct patient care, which still requires human connection.

Answer

I wonder how patients would react to automated beside care. Could it feel impersonal? On the other hand, AI could assist caregivers in monitoring vitals or providing medication on time.

Answer

How do you think patients would feel about interacting with AI for mental health support? I’ve seen mixed opinions on whether it feels as effective as talking to a person.

Answer

For me, the the real potential lies in reducing administrative burdens on doctors. By handling paperwork or data entry, automation might let doctors spend more time engaging with patients.

Nha Hyerin · Answer

"Great question! While AI and automation are making incredible strides, especially in healthcare, I believe they will complement rather than replace the human touch. Automation can certainly streamline administrative tasks, assist with diagnostics, and even provide personalized treatment recommendations based on data. However, in fields like healthcare, empathy, trust, and personal connection are essential. AI can enhance efficiency and support medical professionals, but it’s unlikely to fully replicate the emotional intelligence and human understanding that is crucial for patient care. I see a future where AI and automation empower healthcare workers, allowing them to spend more time focusing on the human aspects of care."

Feliciana · Answer

I think automation in healthcare can definitely help with tasks like scheduling and data management, making things more efficient. But when it comes to empathy and personal care, that’s something AI can’t replace.

Felix Sattler · Answer

@shania_jennings this is a really interesting aspect, as I actually think it depends a lot on the human. I strongly believe that some people would even be more open when speaking to an AI, as the AI does not judge, unlike humans do.

Felix Sattler · Answer

@feliciana_liu yes, that is what combining high-tech and high-touch means. We should apply automation to get rid of repetitive tasks, that block us from having more time for the personal care.

Felix Sattler · Answer

@lisna_agustian thank you for your answer! I totally agree with you when it comes to the human touch, but on the other side I already had the chance to see Ameca (The human like robot) live and it was stunning how real she reacted and interacted with the people. Do you think that these kind of robots could also get used to support the human touch?

Nha Hyerin · Answer

@lisna_agustian @felix_sattler You're welcome! I'm glad you agree with the importance of the human touch in product launches and customer interactions. As for **Ameca** and other **human-like robots**, I think they represent an exciting and evolving frontier in how technology can support—and even enhance—the human touch, rather than replace it.

### Could Human-like Robots Enhance the Human Touch?

**Absolutely!** These robots, like **Ameca**, are incredibly advanced in terms of **realistic facial expressions, body language, and conversational abilities**. When used thoughtfully, they can provide support in a way that feels **authentic** and **personal**, especially in situations where direct human interaction may not be possible or feasible.

### Here are a few ways such robots could support human touch:

1. **Customer Support & Service**:
   - **Robots like Ameca** could assist in customer service environments, handling basic inquiries or tasks while still offering **warm, human-like interactions**. They can make customers feel heard and engaged by responding in real-time with emotion and empathy, providing a personal touch even in automated scenarios.
   - This could be especially useful in environments like airports, malls, or healthcare facilities, where they could assist with directions, answering questions, and providing real-time support.

2. **Mental Health & Companionship**:
   - There’s increasing research into **robot-assisted therapy** for individuals who may struggle with social interaction, such as people with **autism** or those in **elderly care**. Robots that mimic human behavior and offer empathetic responses could help **reduce loneliness** or ease social anxiety, while still being a supportive, non-judgmental presence.
   - For instance, robots in therapy could lead conversations, ask questions, and encourage individuals to express their thoughts, all while ensuring that the experience feels human-like and supportive.

3. **Human Augmentation in Workplaces**:
   - In industries like **healthcare**, robots could support doctors or nurses by handling administrative tasks or simple patient interactions, freeing up time for humans to focus on more complex issues. In these cases, robots like Ameca could help **maintain a compassionate tone** while managing data or leading certain patient interactions, ensuring that patients feel cared for even when they are not directly interacting with a human.
  
4. **Event Interaction & Brand Experiences**:
   - At trade shows, conferences, or even retail environments, robots can act as **brand ambassadors**, offering information in a **charming, engaging, and personable** way. When combined with AR/VR or AI-driven personalization, they can create **memorable experiences** that feel more like human interaction than robotic assistance.

5. **Supporting Human Workers in High-Stress Environments**:
   - In situations where human workers are in high-pressure jobs (like **emergency response**), robots could help by interacting with the public, collecting data, or delivering messages, all while maintaining an emotionally supportive demeanor. This could allow human workers to focus on more complex aspects of their work.

### The Balance Between Technology & Human Interaction:
The key to making robots like Ameca truly **support the human touch** lies in balance. While they can replicate human-like responses and interactions, they shouldn’t **replace** human connection entirely but **complement** it. They could handle repetitive, high-volume tasks or step in where human presence isn’t possible, but **human empathy**, judgment, and emotional intelligence are irreplaceable.

### Challenges:
- **Authenticity & Trust**: One challenge is ensuring that users feel the robot’s interaction is genuine. The technology is still evolving, and there might be a gap in how **natural** these interactions feel for some users.
- **Cultural Acceptance**: Different cultures have different attitudes towards robots. Some may embrace them as assistants or companions, while others may feel uncomfortable with such human-like robots.

Viviana Madeleine · Answer

For me, the idea of AI in healthcare works best as a support tool. Diagnosing illnesses or suggesting treatments could speed up processes, but I’d still want a human doctor to guide decisions.

Answer

I’m not sure AI can ever fully replace human empathy. Machines can provide efficiency, but people turn to healthcare professionals for compassion and understanding, especially during tough times.

What’s the future of automation in fields that are traditionally more ‘hands-on’ like healthcare?

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