Rubin Pillay, M.D., Ph.D., is a leader in the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and health care, using his expertise to drive innovation and educate future generations. As the chief innovation officer for UAB Medicine and an esteemed author, he has dedicated his career to exploring the transformative power of AI in medicine. His passion for educating others extends beyond his institutional roles, manifesting in his books, lectures, and leadership initiatives.
Pillay’s latest works, “Journey to Zero: Digital Technology’s Quest for Perfect Healthcare," “Code to Care: A Leaders’ Guide to Implementing Responsible AI in Healthcare,” and “Now to Next: The Future of Healthcare”, provide a roadmap for health care professionals, policymakers, and administrators to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with AI and digital transformation. His writing bridges the gap between health care, technology, and leadership, equipping readers with the knowledge needed to adapt to an ever-changing medical landscape.
“Writing books allows me to reach a broader audience beyond the walls of UAB and contribute to the global dialogue on health care transformation,” said Pillay. “My goal is to provide practical, actionable insights that health care leaders can use to navigate the complex landscape of health care innovation.”
One of the key themes in Pillay’s work is the need for responsible AI implementation in health care. In “Code to Care,” he emphasizes the importance of ethics, transparency, and collaboration in the deployment of AI technologies. He encourages health care professionals to consider not just the technical aspects of AI, but also its impact on patient care, privacy, and bias mitigation. His books serve as both an introduction and a long-term resource, helping readers make informed decisions as AI continues to evolve.
In “Journey to Zero,” Pillay presents the concept of the “seven zeros,” a framework for eliminating inefficiencies and errors in health care through digital technology. He highlights areas such as zero harm, zero waste, and zero inequity, underscoring how AI and other technological advancements can drive meaningful improvements in patient outcomes. According to Pillay, telemedicine and AI-powered triage are already making strides in achieving “Zero Waiting,” reducing delays in patient care and access to medical services.
Pillay’s “Now to Next” takes a broader look at the future of health care, outlining seven vectors of transformation, including prosumerization (patients taking charge of their own care), the platform economy, and the shift from sick care to well care. He stresses the importance of preparing for these shifts, as they will redefine how patients, providers, and institutions interact with the health care system.
Looking ahead, Pillay plans to continue writing, with future works exploring topics such as quantum computing in health care, AI-driven sustainability, and the role of AI-human collaboration in clinical settings. His vision is to provide thought leadership that equips professionals in these settings with the knowledge to embrace emerging technologies while maintaining a patient-centered approach.
Through his books, teaching, and leadership at UAB, Pillay is shaping the conversation around AI in health care. His commitment to innovation and education ensures that health care professionals are well-prepared to navigate the digital transformation of medicine, ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing global health.
As AI continues to reshape the future of health care, UAB is leading the way with the world’s most comprehensive programming in AI in medicine. Developed in collaboration with global experts like Anthony Chang, M.D., chair of the American Board of AI in Medicine, and Maastricht University, this initiative ensures that health care professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate this rapidly evolving field. Through innovative education and cross-disciplinary AI programs in nursing, health services administration, and ethical AI, UAB is solidifying its role as a global leader in AI-driven health care transformation.
For further insights into the transformative role of AI in health care, explore Pillay’s latest books: “The AI Prescription: Achieving the Quintuple Aim in Health Care: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence to Transform Healthcare for Everyone,” “First, Do No Harm: Building a Sustainable Health Care Future with AI and Digital Technologies,” and “Unlocking the Value: Quantifying the Return on Investment of Healthcare Artificial Intelligence”.