The advent of medical artificial intelligence: lessons from the Japanese approach

Abstract Artificial intelligence or AI has been heralded as the most transformative technology in healthcare, including critical care medicine. Globally, healthcare specialists and health ministries are being pressured to create and implement a roadmap to incorporate applications of AI into care delivery. To date, the majority of Japan’s approach to AI has been anchored in industry, and the challenges that have occurred therein offer important lessons for nations developing new AI strategies. Notably, the demand for an AI-literate workforce has outpaced training programs and knowledge. This is particularly observable within medicine, where clinicians may be unfamiliar with the technology. National policy and private sector involvement have shown promise in developing both workforce and AI applications in healthcare. In combination with Japan’s unique national healthcare system and aggregable healthcare and socioeconomic data, Japan has a rich opportunity to lead in the field of medical AI.