Preetha Kumar is the Executive Director of Data Sciences at Providence India. She has demonstrated multi-functional expertise across technical and business domains and has led engineers and program managers. At Providence, she identifies and meets analytics needs across multiple business areas, such as Revenue Cycle Insights, and Physician Enterprise & Clinical Networks. This is her AI journey. 

Can you tell us about your AI journey? 

I began my career in 2006 at Microsoft, where I focused on data analytics and built a strong foundation for my journey into AI. I was driven by a passion for creating meaningful impact through data and AI. Later, I transitioned to the healthcare sector by joining Providence, where I used my knowledge and skills to transform healthcare. Understanding who the users are and identifying impactful use cases in healthcare is crucial, so I pursued an Executive Management Program in Healthcare Analytics and Management. This comprehensive one-year course equipped me to drive effective AI-enabled healthcare transformation projects. 

What is your area of expertise in AI, and what made you choose it?

As an Executive Director for Data Sciences at Providence India, I spearhead the advanced analytics and data sciences team. My team's role is to make data more accessible and actionable for stakeholders across the organization. We deliver predictive analytics and data-driven insights in care delivery, business-critical operations such as revenue cycle, clinical analytics physician enterprise, and genomics research. We create AI and machine learning models to support several organizational scenarios. Predictive analytics are pivotal for enhancing operational efficiency through advanced data visualizations. 

How important do you think skilling and upskilling are in a country like India?  

Skilling and upskilling are crucial for any professional in the computer science field. This profession is dynamic and thrilling due to its constant innovation and learning opportunities. With its vast talent pool, India holds immense potential for driving global technological advancements. To remain competitive, each generation must develop the right skills. At the entry-level, acquiring foundational skills is key. At the mid-level, professionals must adapt to evolving technologies and transformations. At the leadership level, continuous upskilling is vital for advancing thought leadership and guiding future innovations. In addition, as leaders, encouraging an open culture of innovation and continuous learning is crucial. Every day, I learn from multiple sources, including my team, by listening to their innovative viewpoints and thought-provoking questions.

Describe some challenges you have faced in reaching where you are now.

One of the first challenges I faced during my early years as a software engineer was focusing primarily on the technical "how" without fully understanding the "why" behind the business needs. This experience made me realize the importance of understanding the business domain more deeply. Fortunately, I had opportunities to work on projects that involved direct collaboration with business stakeholders and had supportive leaders who encouraged my growth. This challenge taught me to see the bigger picture and align my technical work with business objectives. 

Moving on to the healthcare sector, where digital transformation is ongoing, we often face significant hurdles. Ensuring a risk-assessed approach to our vision and aligning every stakeholder step by step is critical. 

In what direction should companies in the AI sphere move to ensure more female participation and leadership? 

To support women in their careers, it is essential to identify and address areas where they may need additional support, including physical, virtual, and financial safety. Open communication channels are crucial for pinpointing and resolving barriers preventing women from focusing on their careers; Providence India's initiatives like "Parenthood Made Easy" offer new parents workplace flexibility, specialized training, and buddy systems to help them balance professional and personal responsibilities. 

Another area to focus on is identifying innovative ways to help women manage multiple responsibilities. For example, encouraging thought leadership and using AI to enhance caregiving and productivity can bring value to their personal lives and lead to higher contributions in their professional lives. Additionally, dedicated skill development and leadership training programs are vital for helping women advance their careers in AI.

In a country like India, where societal constraints bind women, how do you think that they should break the stereotypes? 

Fostering a supportive environment where women empower each other to tackle common hurdles is key to driving gender equality. Active allyship between men and women is vital to addressing societal stereotypes and constraints. Visible role models are powerful inspirations, showcasing triumphant women who've overcome similar challenges.

Furthermore, encouraging interest in STEM from early stages and skill development initiatives, mentorship, and inclusive policies catalyze female advancement in these sectors. These combined efforts can play a significant part in propelling the country's progress.

What are your words of wisdom to young girls who wish to build careers in AI?

A career in AI is well within your reach if you confidently approach it. What's important is to start building something. Whether it is a project from your academic work or a personal side project, hands-on experience is crucial. Young women must learn to work with other developers and experts in the field. There are many courses and programs to help you skill yourself in AI, which are accessible to every education level regardless of your terminal degree. AI encompasses various specializations; the best way to find your niche is by collaborating with others in the field so that you can gain insights and enhance your learning.

Can you tell us something about the projects you are handling and your plans in the pipeline?

We are consuming, extending and building AI solutions in multiple ways to accelerate our digital transformation journey. For example, we have advanced data abstraction capabilities that streamline the extraction and organizing of clinical information. Our AI solution automates this process, working with patients and clinicians to produce efficient data outputs, significantly reducing manual effort.  We have also implemented AI-driven analysis to assess patient feedback. On the revenue side, the focus is on predicting cash flow.

Our efforts are directed towards utilizing AI to enhance clinical outcomes by leveraging predictive analytics and machine learning models. These models assist in identifying patterns and potential risks, enabling targeted interventions.