AI Unplugged: What Every PA Needs to Know
November 7, 2025 from 1:30pm MST to 2:20pm MST
AI Unplugged: What Every PA Needs to Know
David Beck Jr., EdD, MPAS, PA-C, DFAAPA Dipu Patel, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, ABAIM Gabe Demone, CD, BSc-PA, BSc, CCPA
Description
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing healthcare by enhancing diagnostics, optimizing treatment plans, and streamlining administrative tasks. However, despite its growing presence, misconceptions persist about its capabilities and limitations. The aim of this presentation is to demystify AI in healthcare by addressing three key objectives: explaining fundamental AI concepts, identifying common misconceptions, and exploring practical ways to advocate for responsible AI adoption in clinical settings.
First, we will provide a foundational overview of AI, covering core concepts such as machine learning, natural language processing, and generative AI. We will showcase current applications in healthcare, including predictive analytics, personalized medicine, and diagnostic support, highlighting both the potential and the limitations of these technologies.
Next, we will discuss prevalent misconceptions, such as the fear that AI will replace healthcare professionals or that it can operate without human oversight. By clarifying the human-in-the-loop approach and the importance of critical thinking, we will demonstrate how AI can augment, rather than replace, clinical judgment.
Finally, we will explore practical strategies for healthcare professionals to stay informed about AI advancements and advocate for its ethical use. Emphasis will be placed on engaging in professional development, participating in interdisciplinary collaborations, and advocating for patient-centered and transparent AI policies.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to:
- Explain the fundamental concepts of AI and its current applications in healthcare
- Identify common misconceptions about AI and clarify its limitations and capabilities
- Explore practical ways to stay informed and advocate for responsible AI adoption in clinical settings
Speakers / Panelists
-
Panel Discussion: The PA-Physician Dynamic - Maximizing Efficiency
November 8, 2025 from 11:30am MST to 12:20pm MST -
Workshop: Practical Procedures in the ED
November 6, 2025 from 9:00am MST to 12:00pm MST -
Lightning Rounds: Most Interesting Cases Competition
November 7, 2025 from 3:00pm MST to 4:30pm MST -
AI Unplugged: What Every PA Needs to Know
November 7, 2025 from 1:30pm MST to 2:20pm MST -
AI Unplugged: What Every PA Needs to Know
November 7, 2025 from 1:30pm MST to 2:20pm MST -
AI Unplugged: What Every PA Needs to Know
November 7, 2025 from 1:30pm MST to 2:20pm MST
Gabriel DeMone
CD, BSc-PA, BSc, CCPA
Gabriel DeMone
Gabe grew up in BC, served 14 years with the CAF and was a graduate of the final MPATP in 2022. He currently works in the ED at Red Deer Hospital. He serves as the Alt. Dir. BC for CAPA and as a Director-at-Large for PARSEC. He is driven to advancing the PA profession in Canada through advocacy and education, and is pursuing his Masters Degree in Precision Health, with a focus on Health Professions Education Leadership.
David C. Beck, Jr.
EdD, MPAS, PA-C, DFAAPA
David C. Beck, Jr.
David C. Beck, Jr., EdD, MPAS, PA-C, DFAAPA, is an innovative healthcare professional and higher education leader. As a practicing PA, he provides care at the UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital Emergency Department and the UPMC Center for Assistive Technology. As the Interim Dean for the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh, his primary responsibility is the formation and implementation of strategic planning regarding his school’s research and the entry-level and post-professional training programs. In both roles, he recognizes that PAs and other healthcare professionals are continuing to move into digital environments, and he is moving his school and health system to embrace this reality and future.
Dipu Patel
DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, ABAIM
Dipu Patel
Dipu Patel, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C, ABAIM, is a pioneering healthcare professional and educator specializing in digital health, AI integration, and healthcare innovation. As the Vice Chair for Innovation in the Department of Physician Assistant Studies at the University of Pittsburgh, she leads initiatives that bridge clinical practice with cutting-edge technology. With extensive experience in emergency medicine, hematology, oncology, and healthcare leadership, Dipu is committed to advancing patient care through responsible AI adoption and education. She also serves as President of the Physician Assistant Education Association (PAEA), advocating for excellence in healthcare education and practice.