Through its participation in the AI2MED project, the University of Montenegro is taking important steps towards transforming the healthcare system. Through AI2MED, Montenegrin healthcare providers will have the opportunity to equip themselves with advanced knowledge that will enable them to better predict patient outcomes, reduce medical errors, and ultimately improve the overall quality of life of citizens. This innovative approach is a crucial step towards the future of healthcare in Montenegro.
Overcoming the challenges of AI integration in healthcare
While AI offers enormous potential, its integration into the Montenegrin healthcare system also brings a number of challenges. As part of the project tasks, we conducted no less than 7 interviews with experts in the field of medicine and AI. As a result of this research, several key challenges were identified:
- Pressure on healthcare resources and the lack of trained staff in some regions are a major barrier to the adoption of AI technologies.
- The need for trained healthcare staff in AI is critical. Without adequate training, it can be difficult for medical staff to use and trust AI systems in critical decision-making processes.
- The acquisition and implementation of AI infrastructures faces financial limitations that are compounded by outdated organizational structures.
- Concerns about data confidentiality and ethical issues surrounding the use of AI and patient safety when making medical decisions based on AI systems.
One of the key points cited by experts for wider adoption of AI in healthcare is the need for AI systems to be reliable, accurate, and transparent, as these qualities are essential for the trust of both healthcare professionals and the public. Equally important is comprehensive training for healthcare professionals to fully understand and utilize the potential of AI. This training is critical to bridging the gap between advanced technology and its practical, everyday application in healthcare and ensuring that AI can be seamlessly and effectively integrated into patient care.
Building AI capabilities to gain the public’s trust
The University of Montenegro is also focusing on promoting the skills required to understand the need to integrate AI into healthcare. The interviews conducted have shown the importance of training healthcare professionals in AI by building the following key skills:
- Understanding of AI algorithms and machine learning models.
- Familiarity with medical terminology and healthcare protocols.
- The ability to critically analyze and interpret AI-generated data.
- Ensure ongoing education and training for AI upgrades and integration into healthcare practice.
These findings highlight the growing need for healthcare professionals to combine their clinical expertise with IT skills, especially as AI plays an increasingly important role in medicine. As one expert noted, “a certain level of IT skills is essential, including familiarity with the internet, AI programs, and digital tools.” This fusion of medical and technical knowledge is crucial for adapting to the rapidly growing use of AI in healthcare.
The path to positioning Montenegro as a regional leader in medical innovation
The above efforts are more than just one initiative—they are a crucial element of a broader strategy to establish Montenegro as a regional hub for medical innovation. By forging international partnerships, collaborating with leading institutions across Europe, and being at the forefront of AI research and development, Montenegro is positioning itself as a key player in the future of healthcare. Through its connections with global experts, the University of Montenegro ensures that it keeps up with the latest advances in AI technology and uses these insights to transform the country’s healthcare system.
By integrating AI, both the University and the country have the potential to become regional role models and demonstrate the transformative power of AI-driven medicine. By prioritizing AI education, fostering cross-border collaboration, and overcoming the practical challenges of implementing AI in healthcare, Montenegro is laying the foundation for a healthcare system that is not only more efficient but also more responsive to patient needs and ready to tackle future health challenges with cutting-edge technology.
