Innovative AI Leadership at Hackensack Meridian Health
Sameer Sethi, senior vice president and chief AI and insights officer at Hackensack Meridian Health in Edison, New Jersey, is at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence in healthcare. In our ongoing series on Chief AI Officers in Healthcare, Sethi’s insights reveal how AI is transforming healthcare delivery.
With a robust background in healthcare data and analytics, Sethi’s career spans roles at prominent institutions including Mount Sinai Health System and McKinsey. His current focus is on leveraging AI and machine learning to enhance healthcare accessibility and efficiency.
Approaching the Chief AI Officer Role
Kicking off his AI journey at Hackensack Meridian Health in 2022, Sethi elaborated on how the organization’s leadership was committed to building a foundational data and analytics layer that would pave the way for advanced technologies like AI. He discussed the proactive role of CEO Bob Garrett, whose focus on AI was a significant motivator for the initiative.
‘Our board wanted to take AI into prime time,’ Sethi stated. ‘They felt we have invested appropriately in foundational layers, and now it’s time to start deploying AI.’
Qualifications for Chief AI Officers
Sethi believes that a Chief AI Officer must possess a unique blend of business acumen and technological expertise. He commented, ‘It’s about sitting at the intersection of technology and business. You have to understand healthcare to successfully implement AI solutions.’
The AI Landscape at Hackensack Meridian
Hackensack Meridian’s approach to AI involves defining specific areas of focus, including personalized experiences for patients and staff, improving administrative efficiencies, and alleviating burnout among healthcare providers. Sethi emphasized the role of AI in disease prevention and early detection, stating, ‘Earlier detection leads to better outcomes.’
Successful AI Implementations
Sethi highlighted a significant AI project that involved creating a mortality risk score, which aids clinicians in making timely decisions about patient care at end-of-life stages. This initiative has led to earlier interventions and improved patient experiences.
‘It’s not just about saving lives; it’s about treating patients with dignity and ensuring they are surrounded by loved ones during critical times,’ he remarked.
Robotic Process Automation (RPA) in Practice
In addition to AI, Sethi’s team has implemented nearly 180 robotic process automation solutions, streamlining repetitive tasks and allowing employees to focus on higher-level responsibilities. ‘Automation enhances efficiency and optimizes staff time,’ he noted.
As healthcare continues to evolve, leaders like Sameer Sethi are pivotal in shaping the future of medical delivery through innovative AI applications that prioritize patient care and operational efficiency.
