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Artificial Intelligence and Healthcare Conference at CUC
On Friday, November 29, the scientific conference Artificial Intelligence and Healthcare – Challenges and Potentials was held at the Catholic University of Croatia. The event also marked the conclusion of the Croatian Science Foundation’s (HrZZ) research project (New) Ethical and Social Challenges of Digital Technologies in the Healthcare Domain, led by Associate Professor Dr. Ante Čartolovni.
Experts from medical, institutional, industrial, and legal fields participated, contributing to the discussion through presentations and panel debates.
The conference began with a welcome address by Prof. Dr. Roberto Antolović, Vice-Rector for Science at the Catholic University of Croatia. He emphasized the significance of the Digit-HeaL project, the research work of the Digit-HeaL Laboratory, and the importance of discussing this crucial topic.
Associate Professor Dr. Anto Čartolovni, head of the research unit, shared opening remarks and project insights, highlighting notable results achieved through publications, dissemination, training, and international collaboration. He expressed gratitude to the Croatian Science Foundation for its support, noting the importance of such projects for the young university.
Dr. Anamaria Malešević, a research team member, explained the research methodology and process. She presented key findings from both qualitative and quantitative research involving healthcare stakeholders and medical students. The highlighted topics included the doctor-patient relationship, trust, regulations, expectations regarding AI implementation, and challenges.
After the introductory speeches, panelists enriched the discussion by sharing their expertise and experiences.
Assistant Prof. Dr. Klaudija Višković, Head of the Radiology and Ultrasound Diagnostics Department at the University Hospital for Infectious Diseases Dr. Fran Mihaljević, discussed AI applications in radiology. She illustrated how AI is currently used in radiology, particularly reflecting on experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Assistant Prof. Dr. Tomislav Sokol, a Croatian Member of the European Parliament, provided an overview of the recently enacted AI Act and explained how AI will be regulated. He also introduced the European Health Data Space and the EU Digital Health Passport, outlining the challenges encountered during their development.
Anita Bujanić, Head of Health Hub, presented the potential of AI in healthcare, emphasizing how it can enhance care delivery. She stressed the importance of collaboration between the private, public, and academic sectors and the need for ongoing societal dialogue.
Mario Ravić, Head of IoT & Digital Health at Ericsson Nikola Tesla, introduced EDIH AIHealth.Cro and explained how this innovation hub supports AI-driven healthcare solutions. He encouraged students to propose innovations and benefit from mentorship and guidance for future implementation.
Hrvoje Belani from the Ministry of Health addressed the NIS2 Directive, focusing on cybersecurity in healthcare. He described its impact on the Croatian healthcare system and highlighted key cybersecurity aspects.
The conference concluded with a panel discussion and an engaging Q&A session with the audience.
