Microsoft launches new version of Copilot AI that draws from medical records to answer questions
Microsoft is expanding its Copilot artificial intelligence, unveiling a healthcare-dedicated model that can provide personalized medical advice, drawing from a patient’s medical history—if given permission to do so.
In a blog announcing the capabilities of the new platform, Microsoft confirmed that the existing app for its popular consumer-facing large language model will also house Copilot Health. Medical data from a user can be retrieved by the application, or added for analysis.
This includes details typically contained in an EHR record, such as a patient’s history of medical treatment, test results, notes from a physician and diagnoses. Microsoft confirmed that it will also be able to extract and use data from consumer wearables and smart devices, such as a Fitbit or numerous smartwatches and other apps that track things like heart rate, rhythm, weight, calories burned, exercise routines and more.
Microsoft said the goal of Copilot Health is to assist patients, helping to arm them with reliable information as they navigate the healthcare system.
“At some point, we’ve all stared at a test result we didn’t understand. Worn a device that tracked everything but revealed little. Sat in a clinic waiting room with a list of questions we forgot the moment we sat down for a consultation. Felt that quiet, unsettling feeling that something is off – but had nowhere to take it,” the company wrote.
“The truth is that most people don’t need more information. They need help to make sense of what they already have. That’s what Copilot Health is for,” it added.
Medical records made available through health IT partnership
Microsoft confirmed that it’s able to gather records and medical details from over 50,000 U.S. hospitals and provider organizations through its integration with HealthEx, a medical records platform.
For now, Copilot Health will be launched only in the U.S. and available in only English, until the platform expands.
“We are actively developing additional language and voice options and will announce expanded support and new geographies when ready,” Microsoft confirmed.
Data shared through the platform is said to be secure and private. The company said records shared through Copilot Health are encrypted and will not be shared with other instances of the chat service.
However, it functions much in the same way. Users can ask questions, and Copilot will provide answers and advice, ideally informed by the data the user granted it access to.
As a safety feature, only adults 18 and older will be permitted to use Copilot Health. Microsoft said identities are confirmed via Clear, the same application trusted for airline travel. Users can also manage or delete their information at any time to take control of their privacy, Microsoft added.
Copilot Health is now available.
Chad is an award-winning writer and editor with over 15 years of experience working in media. He has a decade-long professional background in healthcare, working as a writer and in public relations.