Watson, the IBM supercomputer that defeated the world\u2019s best \u201cJeopardy!\u201d\u009d playersthis year, has found a job in medicine. It won\u2019t be consulting with patients, but a version of the game-show champion could appear in examination rooms, offering assistance to flesh-and-blood physicians. But how soon might you see Dr. Watson? And could Dr. Watson be better than your doctor?<\/p>\n
I\u2019ve worked in software development for more than 25 years \u201d\u201d never for IBM \u201d\u201d and was amazed by Watson\u2019s ability to understand language, solve problems and present answers in the form of a question as Alex Trebek coolly looked on. While I don\u2019t think most doctors need to worry about their jobs anytime soon, Watson-esque technology offers a powerful diagnostic tool that could bring dramatic benefits to health care. The prospect of a robotic caregiver might not seem comforting, but Watson\u2019s first appointment will be a watershed moment. This is an app way beyond anything on an iPhone….<\/p>\n