A unique system of personalized weather alerts has been launched in New York by EmblemHealth, one of the largest nonprofit insurers in the United States. It is an AI-powered voice assistant named Rachel that combines weather data with medical guidance, taking into account a client’s health condition, place of residence and preferred language.
The system is designed to help people get through extreme weather events with minimal health risk and without unnecessary emergency care costs. The AI analyzes a client’s clinical data and matches it with detailed maps, such as a heat vulnerability index. This makes it possible to warn people about the risks that are relevant here and now, and to give personalized advice. The system is adapted for older adults, people with chronic illnesses and pet owners.
The technology has already helped hundreds of residents avoid complications during heat and sudden weather changes, reducing the number of emergency ambulance calls. According to users, the service received a satisfaction rating of 9 out of 10. Such a personalized weather forecast could turn from dry statistics into a full-fledged tool for health care.
