Leveraging AI To Bridge The Neurosurgeon Shortage In Africa

Abstract

Background: A critical disparity exists in the global neurosurgical workforce, with Sub-Saharan Africa facing a particularly dire shortage. These figures underscore the need to innovate on better utilization of specialized services. Problem: Millions in Africa lack access to life-saving neurosurgery due to a severe lack of specialists. 500 neurosurgeons cover a population of over one billion people. In Kenya alone, the number of neurosurgeons falls far short of the WHO's recommended ratio, creating delays in patient access, diagnosis, and treatment. Innovation: We propose Rastuc, an AI-powered digital health platform designed for the African context. Rastuc utilizes AI to match patients with the most suitable healthcare professional based on their specific needs. Doctors self-profile and create availability slots, ensuring patients see the appropriate specialist promptly. The platform empowers junior doctors by enabling them to identify complex cases and seamlessly consult or refer patients to senior colleagues, maximizing the efficiency of the limited workforce. Additionally, Rastuc utilizes an inbuilt EHR system to understand patient characteristics for accurate matching, minimizing misdiagnoses and unnecessary referrals. Impact: Rastuc has the potential to revolutionize neurosurgery care in Africa by: Eliminating Delays: Streamlined patient-doctor matching will significantly reduce wait times and expedite access to critical care. Encouraging Early Diagnosis: By removing access barriers, Rastuc will encourage patients to seek care sooner, leading to earlier diagnoses and improved outcomes. Optimizing Resources: By facilitating collaboration between junior and senior doctors, Rastuc maximizes the expertise of the limited workforce. Conclusion: Rastuc leverages the power of AI to bridge the gap in neurosurgery care for millions in Africa. By optimizing resource allocation and facilitating timely access, Rastuc holds the promise of significantly improving healthcare outcomes and eliminating mismatched care