American Society for Gastroenterology and Endoscopy Launches AI Institute

The American Society for Gastroenterology and Endoscopy (ASGE) has created an institute to integrate artificial intelligence into gastrointestinal (GI) care. 

A division of ASGE, the Artificial Intelligence Institute for Gastroenterology will expand ASGE’s efforts with regulatory agencies, like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), to provide feedback on the regulatory framework for AI and the facilitation of a faster and more efficient approval process for AI-driven medical devices and software. 

These efforts are crucial for seamlessly integrating AI technologies into clinical settings, the organization said. By optimizing resources, streamlining workflows and leveraging predictive analytics, AI can enhance efficiency, reduce wait times and prevent complications, ultimately improving patient outcomes, ASGE said. 

The Institute is actively engaging and collaborating with members of the congressional AI task force, payers, industry, and like-minded organizations, including the American Medical Association, to ensure the transparent, equitable, and ethical use of AI in GI healthcare.

ASGE said the foundation of the Institute is built on five pillars: education, training and curriculum development; advocacy; standards, quality and safety; optimizing practice operations; and acting as a convener for healthcare professionals. Together, ASGE said, these initiatives will shape the future of GI healthcare, making it more effective, efficient, and patient-centered.

“ASGE is committed to leading the integration of AI into gastroenterology and endoscopy, ensuring that our members and the GI industry are at the cutting edge of medical technology,” said Prateek Sharma, M.D., ASGE President 2024-2025 and Chair of the ASGE Task Force on Artificial Intelligence, in a statement. “By enhancing physician training and collaborating with all stakeholders including the FDA, tech industry, NIH, policymakers and others, we are setting a new standard in patient care and safety.”

The creation of the Institute reflects the growing recognition of AI as a permanent and impactful component of modern medicine, one that is already influencing patient outcomes and workflow efficiencies. ASGE convenes physicians, AI experts, innovators, GI and technology companies and regulators to develop a consensus on AI’s application in GI endoscopy.

In a recent survey conducted among ASGE members, AI emerged as the top area where members wanted additional education and resources.