Sarah E. Coupland

George Holt Chair of Pathology, Consultant Ophthalmic Pathologist, University of Liverpool/Liverpool Clinical Labs, UK

What is a little-known fact about you? 

I love road cycling, photography, and classical music.

How do you think AI and machine learning will impact the field? 

AI and machine learning will enable the faster and earlier diagnoses of eye diseases by ophthalmologists and those involved in vision science. These tools will not only be located in tertiary hospitals, but will also become available as “point of care” diagnostics. I hope this will improve vision health inequalities across the globe.  

What industry trends are catching your attention right now? 

“The Talent Challenge” has major workforce implications in medicine and healthcare provision. There is some concern here as fewer people are being attracted into the medical profession, possibly due to its demands. Younger generations, generally speaking, are reassessing the impact of work and what they want to get out of their lives. This has put pressure on universities/employers to ensure they are providing attractive careers, the flexibility of hybrid learning and working, and a complementary work environment and culture.

Moreover, the accelerated digital transformation leads to more workplace automation, which may appear threatening. During this phase of transformation, the onus is on those involved in healthcare to educate, reassure, and actively recruit to the field to make sure there is sustainability of the workforce and continued provision of excellent care.