Join us for a “Data Citizens: A Distinguished Lecture Series” talk featuring Nawar Shara, PhD, an esteemed researcher and professor of medicine at Georgetown University School of Medicine. Renowned for her expertise in biostatistics, health informatics, and data science, Dr. Shara will address how AI and ML are transforming healthcare.

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Wednesday, June 7, 2023 | 3:00 – 4:00PM

Richter Library 3rd Floor Conference Room, #343 | or via ZOOM  The Data Citizens Distinguished Lecture Series is an ongoing course of in-depth talks by experts in the field of data science on a wide variety of topics including data visualization, big data, AI, and predictive analytics. This series is co-sponsored by the Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) and is free and open to the public.

TALK TITLE: “Revolutionizing Healthcare: Unleashing the Power of AI and ML”

Abstract

The advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) has brought about a transformative era in the field of healthcare. One area where the power of AI and ML has proven to be truly remarkable is the utilization of Electronic Health Records (EHRs). EHRs have long been recognized as a treasure trove of valuable patient information but extracting meaningful insights from these vast repositories has always been a challenge.

In this talk, we will explore how AI and ML techniques have enabled us to unveil the power of EHR data to enhance patient care and improve healthcare outcomes. Through sophisticated algorithms and advanced analytics, AI and ML algorithms have the ability to sift through mountains of data with precision and speed, uncovering patterns, predicting risks, and providing personalized treatment recommendations.

We will delve into specific applications of AI and ML in EHR analysis, such as early detection to prevent worsening conditions, treatment optimization, identify disparities in care and patient-provider communication. We will showcase how these technologies have enabled healthcare professionals to identify at-risk patients, intervene proactively, and develop targeted treatment plans tailored to individual needs. However, along with the immense potential, we must also address the ethical considerations and challenges associated with integrating AI and ML into healthcare systems. Privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, and the need for human oversight will be explored to ensure responsible and trustworthy use of AI and ML in healthcare. Finally, in this talk we will unveil the untapped potential of AI and ML in leveraging EHRs to reshape the landscape of healthcare. Discover the remarkable possibilities that lie ahead as we harness the power of AI and ML to provide personalized, precise, and efficient care for patients, transforming healthcare as we know it.

Bio

With a distinguished career spanning over 20 years, Dr. Nawar Shara serves as the Director of the Center of Biostatistics, Informatics and Data Science (CBIDS) at the MedStar Health Research Institute (MHRI), where she spearheads federally and industry funded projects. At the forefront of her field, Dr. Shara leads multi-disciplinary, multi-institutional collaborations, focusing on the revolutionary integration of AI and ML solutions within the vast realm of Big Data, including the Electronic Health Records (EHRs). Her pioneering work enables the extraction of invaluable insights from EHRs, leveraging predictive analytics, data mining, and cutting-edge AI/ML algorithms. As the Director of the Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Research Design core (BERD) and co-Director of the Biomedical Informatics core (BI) for Georgetown-Howard Universities Center for Clinical and Translational Science (GHUCCTS). Dr. Shara oversees collaborative initiatives that transcend institutional boundaries. Within this role, she develops comprehensive courses, workshops, and mentors junior faculty and research scholars, nurturing the next generation of experts in the field.

Dr. Shara’s research interests revolve around the application of Big Data solutions, harnessing the power of AI, ML, and AI/ML data solutions in the realm of health sciences. She has made significant contributions to the design and development of biostatistical curricula, with a specific focus on integrating AI/ML applications within healthcare. Furthermore, Dr. Shara boasts an impressive publication record, with over 100 peer-reviewed papers to her credit.

As the site lead for the AIM-AHEAD NIH-funded consortium for the Training Core and the data and research Core, Dr. Shara is dedicated to improving patient outcomes, enhancing patient-provider communication, and reducing healthcare utilization through the implementation of AI/ML solutions. Her visionary approach and unwavering commitment to advancing healthcare informatics have earned her widespread recognition as a leader in the field.

In summary, Dr. Shara’s profound expertise in biostatistics, health informatics, and AI/ML applications positions her as a trailblazer in the realm of healthcare innovation. Through her groundbreaking research, curriculum development, and mentorship, she continues to shape and inspire the future of healthcare informatics, leaving an indelible mark on the field.