Pattern recognition and false positives - a personal experience
by
Charlie Bess
I had an experience that resonated with me personally about some of the elements I've been discussing in this blog. Since scenarios can many times convey information better than just facts and supposition, here goes...
A few months back, I had to have eye surgery to correct a torn retina. Actually it was two procedures, since the first one was not sufficient. Before I had the second MUCH more intrusive repair, they gave me an EKG. The EKG machine recognized a pattern in my heart rhythm that indicated WPW - a type of irregular heart beat and notified the nurse. They delayed my surgery for about one and a half hours until it could be verified by a specialist that there was little risk.
The next day after the surgery, my primary care physician looked at the EKG and said "I don't see it, but let's be safe." So I got an appointment with a cardiologist. After a few weeks and numerous tests, on Friday I got a clear bill of health, "No problems and your fine - for someone your age'" and the usual admonishment to loose some weight, watch your cholesterol and continue to exercise.
I feel much better about the whole thing now, even if my insurance company probably does not.
This all started because an automated agent sitting on the edge of the healthcare industry recognized a pattern that may indicate a problem – a unique situation. Since it was rather important (at least to me), I was able to rally the human resources available to provide their expertise and make a decision about if it was worth addressing. It focused the attention of the humans involved on the situation.
This scenario is an indication of what will happen in business in the near future, as we shift our focus and implement a more model driven business.
By the way my eye is slowly getting better as well.
