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Expert systems and computer-controlled decision making in medicine

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Abstract

The search for “usable” expert systems is leading somemedical researchers to question the appropriate role of these programs. Most current systems assume a limited role for the human user, delegating situated “decision-control” to the machine. As expert systems are only able to replace a narrow range of human intellectual functions, this leaves the programs unable to cope with the “constructivist” nature of human knowledge-use. In returning practical control to the human doctor, some researchers are abandoning focusedproblem-solving in favour of supportiveproblem-analysis. Using ONCOCIN and QMR as examples, this article contrasts these approaches and suggests that the latter avoids many of the difficulties currently facing medical expert systems.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Science Studies Centre, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Bath, Claverton Down, BA2 7AY, Bath

    Barrie Lipscombe

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  1. Barrie Lipscombe
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After hearing for several decades that computers will soon be able to assist with difficult diagnoses, the practicing physician may well wonder why the the revolution has not occurred. Scepticism at this point is understandable. Few, if any, programs currently have active roles as consultants to physicians (Schwartz, Patil and Szolovits, 1987, p. 685)

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Lipscombe, B. Expert systems and computer-controlled decision making in medicine. AI & Soc 3, 184–197 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01891429

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