AI

An animated gif of a robot throwing donots and then getting hit in the face with an apple

Game on

Transforming smartphones into health-boosting tools

What if the power behind the programs that keep us leashed to our devices actually delivered good health, disease prevention—even digital vaccinations? Rahul Ladhania, assistant professor of Health Informatics, Biostatistics and Health Management & Policy at Michigan Public Health, is part of a team of global researchers doing the painstaking work of subverting the formidable powers of computer algorithms into a force for good.

Zhariyah Laughlin, left, watches as Frederique Laubepin shows the class what to do on the whiteboard

Embracing AI in the classroom

A new frontier in public health education

A group of students in an artificial intelligence class taught by Frederique Laubepin at Michigan Public Health created WanderWell, an AI-powered app offering 24/7, stigma-free support. By utilizing GPT-4 technology, a language model developed by OpenAI, these students designed WanderWell to deliver empathetic, culturally competent care, harm reduction strategies, and access to local resources and emergency services.

FRom left to right, Justin Colacino, Xiang Zhou, Irina Gaynanova and John Piette

The future is here

Michigan Public Health is taking bold steps with AI

AI is not only enhancing the way knowledge is generated and shared, but it’s also redefining the potential for healthcare and public health advancements. Behind its research might, the University of Michigan School of Public Health leads the charge in this transformative paradigm shift.

Dean F. DuBois Bowman at the 2025 graduation ceremony at Hill Auditorium

Advancing a healthier world for all

By integrating AI into research, Michigan Public Health faculty are pioneering advancements in data analysis, optimizing healthcare resources, and exploring new methodologies for addressing health issues. Explore how Michigan Public Health is using AI to drive change and learn more about the transformative power of this initiative.