AI program uses vocal biomarkers to diagnose COVID-19

An artificial intelligence voice analysis tool can help diagnose COVID-19 in asymptomatic patients, according to its manufacturer, Vocalis Health. The technology -- called VocalisCheck -- works by comparing a person's voice sample to a COVID-19-positive voice composite. VocalisCheck assesses their risk level of testing positive for COVID-19 and whether they require further testing. According to the company, early study results show that VocalisCheck had a sensitivity of 87% and specificity of of 53%, when used alone, adding "even better" results were achieved when combined with a symptom questionnaire. "Over time, we will collect more and more data, which can strengthen the AI and make the vocal biomarker even more accurate," Shady Hassan, MD, co‐founder, chief medical and chief operating officer of Vocalis Health, told Healio Primary Care.