AI, machine learning, and blockchain are key for healthcare innovation

A special, peer-reviewed edition of OMICS: A Journal of Integrative Biology, has highlighted the importance of key digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, and blockchain for innovation in healthcare in response to the challenges posed by COVID-19. Vural Özdemir, MD, PhD, Editor-in-Chief of OMICS, said: "COVID-19 is undoubtedly among the ecological determinants of planetary health. Digital health is a veritable opportunity for integrative biology and systems medicine to broaden its scope from human biology to ecological determinants of health. Articles in the special issue include an interview on'Responsible Innovation and Future Science in Australia' by Justine Lacey, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), and Erik Fisher, Arizona State University, Tempe, 'Blockchain for Digital Health: Prospects and Challenges' and'Integrating Artificial and Human Intelligence: A Partnership for Responsible Innovation in Biomedical Engineering and Medicine.' In'Blockchain for Digital Health: Prospects and Challenges' the article explores the challenges that can be faced with the use of blockchain technology.