AI in Oncology: Grounding Innovation in Patient-Centred Care

Exploring the potential of artificial intelligence in oncology while keeping patients at the centre of care

By A/Prof Louise Nott, Icon Cancer Centre (Hobart) Medical Oncologist and Icon Group Director of Medical Oncology (Australia and New Zealand).

Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the most talked-about developments in healthcare – and for good reason. In oncology, AI has the potential to enhance how we diagnose, plan, monitor and deliver care. But as we move toward a future backed by algorithms and automation, we must ensure innovation stays grounded in what matters most: our patients.

Building the foundations

While AI is not yet fully embedded in day-to-day oncology practice, the groundwork is rapidly being laid. Many of us are already engaging with AI-driven tools – from advanced imaging software and digital pathology platforms to clinical trial design and patient triage systems.

We are also seeing growing interest across the workforce. Many clinicians are upskilling, attending courses and exploring how AI might support them in decision-making, workflow management and research. This isn’t about replacing the art of medicine – it’s about refining it.

But successful integration will depend on rigorous validation and ethical review, ensuring technology enhances rather than fragments patient care.

This last point is critical. AI will play a key role in real-world data analysis, giving us insight into the patients we treat, not just the ones participating in clinical trials.

These patients include those who are older, frailer, culturally diverse and living with multiple conditions – who are historically underrepresented in trials.

By using AI to better understand these populations, we can make our research and care more inclusive, more relevant and more responsive.

At Icon, we are building a future where data and compassion go hand in hand – where AI enables better outcomes without losing the human touch. We believe the most powerful innovations are those that are people centred.

We are exploring smart technologies that support patients throughout their cancer experience, including intelligent dictation systems and virtual navigation tools.

These solutions can help reduce administrative burden and improve continuity of care, enabling clinicians to focus more time on patient connection.

Harnessing new technology and research to improve patient outcomes is part of our role, ensuring more people can live longer, healthier lives with the best treatments available.