Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare, providing significant advancements in diagnosis, treatment, and patient monitoring, according to science journalist David Pogue. Speaking at the Purdue University Northwest Sinai Forum on October 26, 2025, Pogue emphasized that AI’s influence permeates various aspects of the healthcare system, from psychotherapy to drug development.
Pogue highlighted that ChatGPT has emerged as the leading provider of mental health support in the United States. During his presentation, he demonstrated the chatbot’s capabilities by role-playing as a patient experiencing depression. When he expressed concerns about AI, the chatbot encouraged continued engagement in discussions about its use. This interaction raised questions about the chatbot’s response to critical situations, such as a patient expressing intentions of self-harm. Pogue noted that human therapists are mandated by law to report such statements, indicating that AI systems would likely follow similar regulations.
The role of wearable technology in healthcare also drew Pogue’s attention. Devices like Apple Watches and Fitbits have evolved into sophisticated health monitoring tools. Pogue explained that these gadgets can track vital signs, analyze sleep patterns, and even detect anomalies like atrial fibrillation, which can lead to severe health issues. “This technology has saved countless lives,” he stated, underscoring its potential to alert users about concerning health conditions.
The innovation does not stop at monitoring. Pogue referred to ongoing research at Stanford University, where scientists are exploring how wearables could identify diseases such as anemia and diabetes. Remarkably, a study indicated that smartwatches could detect COVID-19 three days before typical symptoms emerge, showcasing the potential of these devices in early diagnosis.
AI’s capabilities extend significantly into the pharmaceutical sector, where it has the potential to expedite drug development. Pogue explained that many severe diseases stem from malformed proteins. By analyzing vast datasets, AI can identify these proteins and assist in drug creation, potentially reducing the lengthy process of developing new medications. “In just 13 months, AI identified a drug for lung disease that is now in its second round of clinical trials,” he noted, emphasizing the speed and efficiency AI brings to the industry.
While the benefits of AI in healthcare are substantial, Pogue cautioned about inherent challenges. He pointed out significant data bias in electronic health records, with approximately 80% of records representing individuals of European descent. This lack of diversity can skew AI’s effectiveness across different populations. Additionally, geographic disparities in internet access hinder data collection from various regions, potentially limiting AI’s global applicability.
Data privacy concerns also emerged as a crucial issue. Pogue stressed the importance of protecting personal health information, especially in light of potential breaches and unauthorized data use. The question of accountability is another pressing matter; if AI-assisted treatment leads to adverse effects, determining liability can become complex.
Despite these challenges, Pogue remains optimistic about AI’s role in healthcare. He foresees a future where personalized medicine becomes commonplace, with wearable devices offering tailored health advice based on collected data. For instance, a smartwatch might recommend indoor workouts for asthma patients on high-pollen days.
Pogue’s insights have garnered attention for their potential implications on the future of healthcare. “AI is reshaping the world as we know it. Healthcare is no exception,” noted Leslie Plesac, Executive Director of the Sinai Forum. As AI continues to evolve, its integration into healthcare systems promises to enhance patient outcomes and streamline processes, making the landscape of medicine more efficient and responsive to individual needs.