“Human-in-the-Loop” Approach to Eye-Tracking Data Analysis

What is it? What does it do?

Eye tracking is proven technology that consumer marketers and researchers use regularly, but it has not been widely used in health care because identification of specific objects in highly dynamic environments is a significant data analysis challenge. These challenges result in gaps in understanding how clinicians see information, process this information, and interact in their complex environments.

MedStar Health’s novel system for analyzing eye-tracking data leverages human insight with machine learning and results in a streamlined, more robust analysis process. Combining a computer’s ability to quickly process large quantities of data and a human's ability to decipher and make decisions for complex images and situations allows researchers to apply the science of eye tracking to study how clinicians can more safely and efficiently interact with their environment to deliver the best care possible. This includes the design of computer interfaces, like the electronic health record (EHR), as well as complex environments, like the operating room.