Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the management of multiple sclerosis (MS), particularly in shared decision-making (SDM) between patients and healthcare professionals. From early diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations to improving doctor-patient communication, AI-driven tools are enhancing how MS is understood and treated.
In this interview, I speak with Dr. Stefan Ebener, an AI healthcare expert at Google, about the current and future role of AI in MS care. How can AI simplify complex medical data? What are its limitations? And how can it support MS patients in making informed treatment choices?
Together, we explore the transformative potential of AI in MS care and the importance of balancing technological advancements with human expertise.
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Introduction – Who is Dr. Stefan Ebener?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: My name is Dr. Stefan Ebener, and I lead an international team of experts at Google. Our goal is to help customers implement cutting-edge technologies for real-world applications, including AI solutions in healthcare.
Personal motivation for your career choice?
Nele von Horsten: What inspired you to work in AI and healthcare?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: It’s been quite a journey. I joined Google over seven years ago, driven by the company’s potential to revolutionize industries with technology. Google’s combination of economic power, technological expertise, and willingness to challenge the status quo was highly appealing to me. I wanted to be part of something transformative, and AI in healthcare is precisely that.
Understanding AI in Healthcare
How can artificial intelligence help improve the overall management of MS?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: MS is incredibly complex and heterogeneous, with varying symptoms, progression rates, and responses to treatment. AI presents new opportunities for better disease management by improving early diagnosis, identifying biomarkers, and enhancing monitoring.
Machine learning, natural language processing (NLP), and computer vision play key roles. AI-driven MRI analysis can support radiologists in detecting abnormalities, reducing misdiagnosis, and enabling earlier intervention. Additionally, AI can help track symptoms and treatment responses more effectively than traditional approaches.
What are some current AI tools or systems that already support shared decision-making in healthcare? And what are the biggest challenges?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: Many AI-driven tools already assist in healthcare. Large language models like Google Gemini and OpenAI’s ChatGPT support shared decision-making by summarizing complex medical information, preparing patients for doctor visits, and improving doctor-patient communication.
However, public AI models are not allowed to give direct medical advice due to safety regulations. While they can help patients understand their health records and symptoms, they cannot recommend treatments. Overcoming this limitation requires locally trained models and strict data privacy measures.
Could you explain how AI works in simplifying complex medical data for MS patients?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: AI translates complex medical information into accessible language. AI chatbots and NLP models can explain test results, treatment options, and potential side effects in an easy-to-understand manner. By visualizing data, AI helps patients make informed choices without feeling overwhelmed by medical jargon.
Shared Decision-Making with AI
How can AI help MS patients and neurologists or therapists to improve communication and work together to make better treatment decisions?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: AI can assist both patients and doctors by organizing medical histories, highlighting key data points, and facilitating risk assessments. It ensures that both parties enter discussions with relevant, up-to-date information, leading to more productive conversations.
What are the limitations of AI providing personalized recommendations for treatment options based on a patient’s medical history and symptoms?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: One major limitation is AI’s dependence on available data. Bias in medical datasets can lead to skewed recommendations, particularly when women or minority groups are underrepresented in research.
Another challenge is AI’s lack of contextual awareness. While a neurologist considers personal circumstances—such as a patient’s lifestyle, job, and support network—AI systems might overlook these factors unless explicitly trained to include them.
How can AI assist patients in understanding the pros and cons of different treatment plans?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: AI can provide tailored summaries of treatment options, highlighting risks and benefits in an understandable format. AI-driven simulations may also help predict how a patient might respond to a specific treatment, further supporting personalized decision-making.
Improving Contact with Healthcare Providers
Are there AI tools that can help patients manage their appointments, medication schedules, and follow-ups with multiple providers?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: Yes, several AI-driven tools help with scheduling and medication adherence. Apps like MediSafe and Mango Health offer smart medication reminders and integrate with wearables to track patient adherence. Additionally, AI-driven pill dispensers like Hero Health can detect errors and alert caregivers.
Could AI chatbots or virtual assistants provide faster access to reliable answers for common MS-related questions?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: AI chatbots can provide quick, reliable answers to common MS-related questions, reducing dependency on healthcare professionals for minor inquiries. However, chatbots should only be used for general guidance, not medical advice, and must be sourced from reputable providers.
Ensuring Privacy and Data Security
What steps are being taken to ensure that patient data remains private and secure when AI systems are used?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: Data privacy is a top priority. Reputable AI providers follow strict security protocols, including encryption and anonymization of patient data. Europe’s GDPR regulations provide additional safeguards to ensure patient information remains secure.
What should MS patients know about giving consent to share their health data with AI platforms?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: Patients should review AI platforms’ data policies carefully. They should ask:
Is their data stored permanently or temporarily?
Is it shared with third parties?
Can they withdraw consent at any time?
Choosing reputable providers is crucial to ensuring data security.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
How can AI be made accessible for all MS patients, including those who are less tech-savvy or have other barriers they need to overcome?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: AI should be user-friendly for all patients, regardless of tech proficiency. Voice-controlled AI interfaces, multilingual support, and simplified UX designs help make AI tools more inclusive.
Could AI platforms offer multilingual support to improve communication for non-native speakers or to inform relatives?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: Absolutely! Many AI systems already support 40+ languages, enabling patients to communicate effectively with healthcare providers and ensuring that relatives understand treatment plans.
Potential Challenges and Limitations
Why are AI tools only a supplement, but not a substitute, for medical professionals?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: AI lacks the human ability to assess emotional, social, and contextual factors in patient care. While AI can assist with data analysis and pattern recognition, it cannot replace the expertise and empathy of a healthcare professional.
What are the most exciting developments in AI that could revolutionize MS care in the next five years?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: Key developments include:
Multimodal AI: Integrating text, images, and wearable data for a more holistic approach.
Real-time Monitoring: AI-driven wearables tracking symptoms and predicting relapses.
AI-Assisted Clinical Trials: Faster patient recruitment and improved trial efficiency.
Empowering Patients through AI
Could AI be used to create virtual support groups or connect patients with similar experiences?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: Yes! AI-powered platforms can match patients with similar experiences and facilitate peer support networks.
What advice would you give MS patients who are curious about using AI tools to manage their condition?
Dr. Stefan Ebener: Be curious, but stay cautious. AI can be an excellent support tool, but always verify information and consult healthcare professionals before making medical decisions.
Nele von Horsten: Stefan, thank you for your insights! AI has incredible potential, but as you’ve mentioned, it must be used wisely.
Dr. Stefan Ebener: Thank you, Nele! It was a pleasure discussing AI’s role in MS care. Looking forward to seeing how AI continues to evolve in this space.
See you soon and try to make the best out of your life,
Nele
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