The Rise of AI in Healthcare: Transforming Insights and Pharmacy Services

March 2, 2025, 5:28 pm
IQVIA
IQVIA
AssistedDataHealthTechHumanLifeMedTechProviderScienceServiceTechnology
Location: United States, North Carolina, Durham
Employees: 10001+
Founded date: 2016
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a futuristic concept. It’s here, reshaping industries and redefining roles. In healthcare, AI is a game-changer. It’s like a lighthouse guiding ships through foggy waters. Two recent developments highlight this transformation: IQVIA’s AI Assistant and Belgium’s Salvus Health.

IQVIA, a titan in advanced analytics and clinical research, recently snagged the 2024 PM360 Innovation Award for its AI Assistant. This accolade isn’t just a trophy; it’s a testament to how AI can streamline healthcare insights. Launched in September 2024, the IQVIA AI Assistant is designed to provide rapid, relevant answers to complex business questions. Imagine having a knowledgeable friend who can sift through mountains of data in seconds. That’s what this AI does.

The AI Assistant uses a conversational interface, making complex analytics accessible to a wide range of users. It’s like having a personal guide in a vast library of medical knowledge. Users can now obtain near real-time insights, which is crucial in a field where timely information can save lives.

IQVIA’s commitment to responsible AI is evident. Their Healthcare-grade AI™ focuses on data privacy, security, and regulatory compliance. This is not just about innovation; it’s about trust. In healthcare, trust is paramount. Patients and providers alike need to know that their data is safe and that the insights generated are reliable.

The AI Assistant builds on IQVIA’s decade-long experience in AI. It’s not just a shiny new tool; it’s rooted in a proven foundation. The company is not just pushing boundaries; it’s doing so with a keen eye on quality and precision. The AI Assistant is part of a broader suite of tools, including Orchestrated Analytics and ChannelDynamics, which aim to integrate AI-driven insights into strategic decision-making. This integration enhances the efficiency of life sciences programs, making them more precise and impactful.

On the other side of the Atlantic, Belgian startup Salvus Health is making waves in pharmacy services. The company recently raised €500,000 to enhance its smart service platform for pharmacists. This platform is designed to help pharmacists reclaim their time and focus on what they do best: advising patients. It’s like giving pharmacists a superhero cape, allowing them to soar above mundane tasks.

Salvus Health automates repetitive chores, such as scheduling appointments and sending reminders. This is a breath of fresh air for pharmacists, who often juggle multiple responsibilities. The platform’s integrated CRM system allows for targeted communication with patients. Whether it’s displaying inhaler usage instructions on a tablet or tracking medication adherence, the platform streamlines operations. It’s a symphony of efficiency.

Founded in 2020 by biomedical engineer Philip Van den Bergh and entrepreneur Salvador Severich, Salvus Health has quickly gained traction. With 150 pharmacies and around 100,000 active patients, the startup is on a growth trajectory. Last year alone, it facilitated 50,000 vaccination appointments. This is not just a number; it represents lives touched and health improved.

Pharmacists are often the unsung heroes of healthcare. They possess valuable expertise and are crucial to patient care. However, many face challenges, including outdated software and staffing shortages. This is where Salvus Health steps in. By enhancing pharmacy services, they empower pharmacists to take on additional responsibilities, such as vaccinations and medical consultations.

The support from European governments is a boon. They recognize the importance of pharmacists and reimburse services like vaccinations. Yet, the reality is that pharmacists often lack the time to fulfill these roles. The pressure is immense. Some pharmacists vaccinate up to 1,500 patients in just two months. This is a testament to their dedication but also highlights the need for better tools.

Salvus Health aims for a 20% market share among Belgium’s 4,500 pharmacies. The potential for growth is significant, especially with plans to expand into neighboring European countries. With around 160,000 pharmacies across Europe, the horizon is bright.

Both IQVIA and Salvus Health illustrate the power of AI in healthcare. They are not just adopting technology; they are harnessing it to create meaningful change. The future of healthcare is intertwined with AI. It’s a partnership that promises to enhance patient care, streamline operations, and foster innovation.

As we look ahead, the role of AI will only grow. It will continue to transform how healthcare professionals operate and how patients receive care. The journey is just beginning. With each advancement, we move closer to a healthcare system that is more efficient, more precise, and ultimately, more human.

In this landscape, AI is not just a tool; it’s a catalyst for change. It’s a bridge connecting data to decisions, insights to actions. The potential is limitless. As we embrace this new era, one thing is clear: the future of healthcare is bright, and AI is leading the way.