New research by scientists at the University of Liverpool looks at how artificial intelligence (AI) can help doctors make better choices when prescribing antibiotics for urinary tract infection (UTI), one of the world's most common bacterial infections.
By improving the precision of antibiotic prescribing, the research aims to tackle the growing global crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
In a new paper published in npj Digital Medicine, this latest work illustrates a pioneering AI-based approach to treatment decision-making that combines human judgment and data.
The new algorithm works by blending the experience of real doctors with data-driven predictions.
It uses a mathematical tool, called a utility function, to weigh up the pros and cons of each antibiotic option for an individual patient.
By picking the most appropriate antibiotic for each patient, the system hopes to reduce unnecessary use of strong antibiotics and slow down resistance.
Importantly, the algorithm also has a built-in, innovative safety feature.
If a patient is very ill, it automatically puts more emphasis on picking an effective antibiotic, making sure the treatment is effective when it matters most.
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