Professor Elsie Akosua Biraa Effah Kaufmann, who holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Pennsylvania, currently serves as the Dean of the School of Engineering Sciences at the University of Ghana. In a recent interview with Just4WomenAfrica, Prof. Effah Kaufmann shared her insights on the integration of AI in biomedical engineering, the challenges and potential of AI in healthcare, and advice for aspiring biomedical engineers.
When asked how AI is currently being utilized in the field of biomedical engineering, Prof. Effah Kaufmann emphasized the pervasive presence of AI in solving contemporary problems. She highlighted several projects her students at the University of Ghana are working on. One notable project involves using AI to detect mental health disorders. The students have developed an app capable of predicting if a patient has a mental health disorder. Interestingly, the app can also detect comorbidities that health professionals might not easily diagnose.
Another project focuses on using AI to detect arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat, in patients. This technology aids cardiologists in identifying various types of arrhythmias, potentially improving diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.
Discussing the challenges in integrating AI into existing healthcare frameworks, Prof. Effah Kaufmann pointed out the lack of local databases as a significant issue. Many AI systems currently rely on data from other regions, which may not accurately reflect local patient presentations. She stressed the importance of developing local databases to ensure that AI systems are relevant and effective for the local population. Building these databases requires substantial contribution and effort from the local community.
To position Ghana as a leader in AI research and technology on the African continent, Prof. Effah Kaufmann believes that understanding the necessity and potential of these systems is crucial. She emphasized that with the right awareness, leaders would allocate the necessary resources for AI development. Research funding remains a major concern, along with capacity building. Prof. Kaufmann expressed optimism about the growing interest in AI within Ghana, noting that many people are now learning about AI algorithms and applications, including in health.
Looking ahead, Prof. Kaufmann envisions a future where the current educational curriculum is revamped to include AI. She hopes to see more student projects incorporating AI and more research conducted on the limitations and ethical frameworks surrounding AI. Her vision includes a comprehensive integration of AI in biomedical engineering education and practice over the next decade.
For young females aspiring to be biomedical engineers and technologists, especially those interested in AI, Prof. Effah Kaufmann’s advice is to seize the moment and pursue their goals. She encouraged them to find mentors for guidance and emphasized that there is no need to reinvent the wheel. With the right support and resources, they can make significant strides in their careers.
This interview with Prof. Elsie Akosua Biraa Effah Kaufmann provides valuable insights into the current and future landscape of AI in biomedical engineering, highlighting both the challenges and the immense potential for growth and innovation in Ghana and beyond.
