BreastScreen Aotearoa is preparing for the careful introduction of artificial intelligence (AI) into mammogram reading. BCAC’s Fay Sowerby explains why AI as a second reader should be seen as a sensible and practical tool, not as a replacement for radiologists or clinical judgement. She acknowledges that some women may be concerned about AI in breast screening, while also recognising the growing pressure on New Zealand’s radiology workforce and the need to sustain safe, high-quality double reading.
Fay explains that AI is being considered as one of two independent reads in breast screening, not as a stand-alone replacement for clinicians.
The immediate goal is practical: to support BreastScreen Aotearoa, help manage radiology workforce pressures, and maintain safe double reading.
The wider opportunity is precision health: breast density reporting and more personalised breast cancer risk assessment.
Women need clear communication, strong safeguards, local validation, data protection, equity monitoring and continued human oversight.
You can read Fay’s full article here.
