Recent years have seen a rapid increase in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology in the medical field. We can expect to see an even larger increase in 2023. While the main uses for AI in medicine usually include diagnostics and disease detection, many more avenues are available. Let’s take a look at some additional ways that AI can support the medical community.

2022 was a hard year for many people. In all the chaos, it can be hard for some people to get a grip on their anxiety. Now that the new year is here, providers may encounter patients who are itching to improve their physical and mental health: new year, new me. It’s important that, as a provider, you know the best resources your patients can use to make healthier choices in 2023.

What is the difference between forgetfulness that comes with age and forgetfulness that comes from a disease like Alzheimer’s? Dr. Masil George, an Associate Professor from the Department of Geriatrics at UAMS recently went on AFMC TV to discuss memory loss and Alzheimer’s. She breaks down the differences between Alzheimer’s and dementia, the overall warning signs, and actions patients can take to mitigate their risk or live more independently if they do have Alzheimer’s.

The stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS can cause significant emotional damage. HIV/AIDS research is vital to decreasing stigma and pushing people closer to a cure. While some organizations focus more on overcoming barriers to HIV/AIDS treatment, others focus on the other half of the story: decreasing the discrimination, fear, anxiety, and overall sense of taboo that people diagnosed with HIV/AIDS experience daily. The University of Alabama recognized faith-based organizations’ role in decreasing stigma (particularly in the deep south). Their Faith-based Intervention to Heal HIV/AIDS (FAITTH) Program has given them the platform they need to make a difference.

Ryan White was 13 when he was diagnosed with AIDS in December 1984. He had had a blood transfusion, and his doctors told him he only had six months to live. When Ryan tried to return to school, he faced AIDS-related discrimination from his classmates. He quickly became the face of public education regarding AIDS. Ryan's story is one that encourages us to promote AIDS awareness and intervention strategies. The Ryan White Program, named in his honor, focuses on providing services to people with HIV and AIDS that allow them to live normal lives.

A few weeks ago, we wrote a blog post about Newport, Arkansas being regarded as one of the “most diabetic places in the US” according to an article by the Mississippi Center for Investigative Reporting. AFMC reached out to Chauncee Young, CCE, Regional Clinical Director for Unity Health — Newport Medical Clinics in Jackson County to tell us about the biggest obstacles Jackson’s residents face, local resources for patients and providers, and the current initiatives in place to promote diabetes screening and treatment in Jackson County.