Interactive AI bowel cancer screening technology will answer patients’ questions. Photo: NQPHN.
Artificial intelligence (AI) will continue to change the way we look after our health in 2026.
Northern Queensland Primary Health Network (NQPHN) is using the technology to help combat rising rates of bowel cancer across the region.
The health network has partnered with Healthily to utilise its GoShare AI platform.
The interactive tech allows general practitioners to deliver a bowel cancer screening bundle that uses AI voice calls, SMS reminders and phone conversations to answer questions from eligible patients aged from 45-49.
The age range was lowered from 50 by the National Health and Medical Research Council in 2023 to address the rising rates of bowel cancer in young adults.
NQPHN chief executive officer Ben Tooth said the initiative was an example of how innovative technology could strengthen healthcare.
“Early detection is one of the most effective tools we have against bowel cancer,” Mr Tooth said.
“By making screening easier, more accessible, and supported by general practices, we’re helping northern Queenslanders take charge of their health.”
The platform identifies eligible patients through their GP clinic and prompts them via SMS to have a health assessment – including bowel screening.
Patients can then receive an automated follow-up phone call through GoShare which, using conversational Voice AI, answers questions over the phone.
According to NQPHN’s Joint Regional Needs Assessment (JRNA), the participation rate of bowel cancer screening in the northern Queensland region was 35 per cent for 2020-21 – slightly lower than the state’s average of 37.5 per cent.
The bowel cancer screening bundles aim to increase screening participation rates and early detection of bowel cancer.
The initiative is funded through Queensland Health’s PHN cancer screening partnerships, collaborating with primary health care to increase participation rates in the national cancer screening programs.
General practices across the Cape are encouraged to register their interest in adopting the bundles.
Visit: www.nqphn.com.au
