Natural Language Processing in Healthcare Informatics: Challenges and Future Directions

Emerging Technologies in NLP for Healthcare

Author(s): R. Sofia* and S. Yazhinian

Pp: 269-295 (27)

DOI: 10.2174/9798898814922126010018

* (Excluding Mailing and Handling)

Abstract

Emerging technologies in Natural Language Processing (NLP) are generating substantial breakthroughs across different sectors, notably in healthcare, where they are transforming patient care, diagnostics, and medical research. By utilizing the power of transformers and Large Language Models (LLMs) like GPT-3/4 and BERT, NLP is improving text production, contextual comprehension, and the interpretation of complex medical jargon. These technologies also evolve into multimodal applications, merging text with visuals and audio for thorough data processing. In banking and customer service, conversational AI leads to the development of sophisticated chatbots and emotion-sensitive systems. At the same time, explainable and ethical NLP provides openness and fairness in decision-making processes. Domain-specific models are being adapted to address the particular demands of specialized domains, and the combination of NLP with edge computing allows realtime processing for mobile and IoT devices. Moreover, NLP is breaking down language barriers with cross-lingual models, supporting low-resource languages, and encouraging inclusion. As these technologies continue to grow, they are establishing new norms in human-machine interaction, with substantial implications for tailored care, efficient operations, and new paths of discovery across numerous industries.


Keywords: BERT, GPT-3/4, Healthcare, Transformers, Large Language Models (LLMs), Natural Language Processing (NLP).