World's First AI-Powered Clinic Launched in Saudi Arabia
cAI, a Shanghai-based medical technology startup, has launched the world’s first AI-powered clinic in Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with Almoosa Health Group, as reported by Leaders. The clinic introduces an innovative model where an AI system, named Dr. Hua, serves as the first point of contact for diagnosing and treating patients.
Using a tablet interface, patients describe their symptoms in detail, and the AI system, powered by advanced algorithms, asks specific questions and analyzes medical data such as X-rays and cardiograms.
Following the consultation, Dr. Hua generates a treatment plan, which is then reviewed and approved by human doctors. While AI handles the primary diagnosis, human doctors are available for emergencies or cases the AI cannot address.
Promising Results and Future Expansion Plans
Leaders report that Initial testing of the AI system has shown promising results, with an error rate of less than 0.3%, highlighting its potential for accurate diagnostics.
To date, dozens of patients have used the service free of charge, with human doctors overseeing the process. Synyi AI plans to expand the clinic's diagnostic capabilities to include 50 diseases within the next year, focusing on conditions such as respiratory, gastroenterological, and dermatological issues.
The pilot program is generating diagnostic data for submission to Saudi authorities, with commercial approval expected within 18 months. However, some medical professionals are skeptical about AI replacing human doctors entirely.
Ngiam Kee Yuan, a senior consultant at Singapore’s National University Hospital, expressed doubts about AI reaching the level of primary practitioners anytime soon.
AI in the Middle East: A Growing Trend
According to Leader, Synyi AI is part of a broader wave of Chinese health-tech companies entering the Middle East to refine and deploy AI technologies. Companies like Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group and XtalPi Holdings are also advancing in the region, focusing on tele-diagnostics, gene therapy, and AI-driven medical research.
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Synyi AI’s CEO, Zhang Shaodian, believes that AI can revolutionize healthcare by drastically reducing costs, particularly in regions where medical services are expensive or scarce. He envisions AI improving efficiency tenfold, especially in remote areas with limited access to medical professionals.
With Saudi Arabia as its first international market, Synyi AI is paving the way for a new era of global healthcare, where technology and human expertise work together to deliver accessible and affordable medical care.
