IMAGE: As a fellow of the 4th Intercontinental Academia (ICA): Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence, Regenstrief Institute Research Scientist Suranga Kasthurirathne, PhD, is studying the role of operationalizing artificial intelligence (AI) within... view more INDIANAPOLIS -- Regenstrief research scientist and Indiana University School of Medicine faculty member Suranga Kasthurirathne, PhD, has been selected as a fellow of the 4th Intercontinental Academia (ICA): Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence. He and the other outstanding early and midcareer researchers chosen as fellows will work together on cross-disciplinary projects while being mentored by some of the most renowned scientists from around the world, including Nobel Prize winners. Through its fellowship program, the ICA seeks to create a global network of future research leaders. Each fellow proposes a project. Dr. Kasthurirathne's focuses on the role of operationalizing artificial intelligence (AI) within learning health systems.

Researchers at Regenstrief Institute and Indiana University created decision models capable of predicting which patients might need more treatment for their depression than what their primary care provider can offer. The algorithms were specifically designed to provide information the clinician can act on and fit into existing clinical workflows. Depression is the most commonly occurring mental illness in the world. The World Health Organization estimates that it affects about 350 million people. Some people may be able to manage their depression on their own or with guidance from a primary care provider.

Depression is a worldwide health predicament, affecting more than 300 million adults. It is considered the leading cause of disability and contributor to the overall global burden of disease. Detecting people in need of advanced depression care is crucial. Now, a team of researchers at the Regenstrief Institute found a way to help clinicians detect and identify patients in need of advanced care for depression. The new method, which uses machine learning or artificial intelligence (AI), can help reduce the number of people who experience depressive symptoms that could potentially lead to suicide.