A Reality Check for AI’s Promises

Ternio Newsroom Staff | December 2023

In the ever-evolving realm of healthcare technology, the hype surrounding AI often overshadows critical discussions about what we believe is H.I. – Human Intelligence or the Human Element. Ternio believes profoundly in the significance of the human touch in all aspects of our business, countering the inflated claims often associated with AI.

AI’s Domain: A Singular Focus on Quantifiable Tasks
In their book “AI 2041”, writer Chen Qiufan and technologist Kai-Fu Lee examine the impact of AI over the next 20 years.  They astutely emphasize AI’s remarkable capacity to continuously improve in single-domain tasks through data accumulation and correctly identify AI’s forte in fields like internet and finance, where tasks are digital and quantifiable, enabling exponential advancements.

Beyond the Digital Realm: The Intricacies of Skilled Work
However, it’s crucial to recognize that skilled work such as direct patient care or surgical instrument repair for that matter, transcend the limitations of a singular domain. Unlike the streamlined and quantitative nature of tasks in digital realms, caring for patients or repairing surgical instruments involves a human intervention due to the complex interplay of materials, designs, functionalities, and nuanced intricacies that extend far beyond a single domain.

The Irreplaceable Human Touch in Healthcare
The limitations of AI become starkly evident in patient-centered services. This is a point emphasized in a recent LinkedIn post by physician Yukti Karki, in which she astutely describes AI’s inability to forge deep connections, exercise creativity, empathize emotionally, or engage in moral and ethical reasoning—vital elements in the healthcare landscape.

Debunking the AI Myth: Competitive Edge Lies in Collaboration
Moreover, Forbes’ September 2023 article debunks the myth of AI as a sole competitive advantage. It rightly asserts that if one can harness AI, so can their competitors. The real edge lies in fostering a collaborative human-AI partnership, augmenting human strengths with machine capabilities, rather than relying solely on technological prowess.

Ternio’s Commitment: Human-Centric Excellence
At Ternio, we consistently champion the irreplaceable role of the human touch in everything we do.  Our core values revolve around nurturing creativity, critical thinking, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and continuous learning—traits that counterbalance AI’s limitations. We acknowledge the importance of staying abreast of emerging trends while remaining flexible in the face of change.

In a landscape where the allure of AI’s superiority may seem irresistible, Ternio remains rooted in its commitment to unwavering excellence. We understand that genuine customer confidence doesn’t solely stem from technological advancements but springs from a culture steeped in expertise, adaptability, and an unyielding dedication to serving our partners.

Bridging the Gap: Technology and Human Expertise
Comprehending the reality beyond the hype surrounding AI is pivotal in making the best vendor selection. Our cloud-based reporting and analytics offer transparency, empowering hospitals to streamline repair processes and curtail waste—harmonizing technology with the indispensable human touch.

At Ternio, the human touch isn’t just a catchy phrase; it’s our cornerstone principle. We aren’t defined by the mere promise of AI’s supremacy but by our unwavering commitment to healthcare facilities, merging human expertise with technological innovation to deliver unparalleled service.

 

“You might need somethin’ to hold on to
When all the answers, they don’t amount to much
Somebody that you could just to talk to
And a little of that human touch”

—    Bruce Springsteen, Human Touch