From Walled Gardens to Open Fields: AI-Enabled Clinical Decision Support and Libraries (26th Health Sciences Lively Discussion): Slide Deck

Abstract (English)

The lively discussion session explored the rapidly evolving landscape of AI-enabled clinical decision support (CDS) tools and implications for health sciences librarians. Platforms such as OpenEvidence are gaining traction among clinicians and students, often being adopted individually or licensed enterprise-wide outside of libraries. How can librarians effectively support users and institutions within this shifting environment?

Following an introduction by moderator Sarah McClung, librarian Ramune Kubilius briefly overviewed recent health sciences publishing trends. Publishing consultant, Meg White, examined the current ecosystem of CDS tools, including adoption trends and distinctions between traditional evidence-based resources and emerging AI tools. Michelle Kraft, a health sciences library director, shared real-world scenarios, including supporting users of these tools, collection development considerations, and challenges when libraries are not involved in acquisition or implementation.

Enriched by attendees’ questions and contributions, the session also addressed current use in practice, approaches to evidence synthesis, and concerns related to transparency, bias, and ethics.

Designed to be practical and thought-provoking, this discussion sought to equip librarians with foundational knowledge to confidently engage with, instruct, and confer on AI-enabled CDS tools, helping to position libraries as critical partners in this complex, fast-changing space.