Carbondale Reporter

Technology is playing a growing role in healthcare, but Southern Illinois Healthcare (SIH) emphasizes that patient care remains centered on people. At a recent Workforce Summit organized by John A. Logan College, Dr. Mark Korte, a family physician, discussed how artificial intelligence (AI) is being integrated into clinical practice to enhance patient-provider interactions.

Many clinicians at SIH are now using a secure AI tool during appointments. This technology listens to the conversation, transcribes it, and summarizes the discussion between doctor and patient. As a result, providers can focus more on listening to patients, asking relevant questions, and explaining next steps rather than typing notes during visits.

“AI is a tool, not a decision-maker,” said Dr. Korte. “It helps us capture accurate information while keeping our attention where it belongs - on you.”

The use of AI also aims to reduce administrative burdens for physicians by streamlining documentation and minimizing paperwork. This can help decrease burnout among healthcare providers and allow them to spend more time with their families after work hours.

SIH continues to explore additional ways that AI could improve safety and efficiency in healthcare settings, such as by summarizing complex medical histories or sending reminders about follow-up tests for patients.

Despite these technological advances, SIH maintains that personal connection remains central to quality care, with artificial intelligence serving as an aid rather than replacing human interaction.