Discussion board #3: How technology has changed accounting in healthcare

The rapid deployment of cloud computing, advances in artificial intelligence (AI), and the wide adoption of electronic health records (EHRs) have significant implications in accounting in healthcare.  Dr. Contessotto states: Accountants are able to work with a lot less paper, relying on spreadsheets and software packages for much of their work. Do you think AI take over accountants job?

In this discussion, in no less than 200 words, please articulate how technology has disrupted the accounting industry in general, and healthcare accounting in particular, and state your vision for the future of healthcare accounting.

In addition, please reply in no less than 100 words to one of your classmates posting. Both postings should present quality, thoughtfulness, and unique perspectives.

Here I copy & paste one of my classmate’s (Nina) post, you should reply her post for 100 words:
In my opinion, technology has has disrupted accounting by reducing the need for accountants at large. Artificial intelligence allows for improved accuracy and a reduced need for accountants since AI does not need to check and recheck the accuracy of the books. Technology allows for quick and accurate accounting that is efficient. When making hiring decisions, it is likely that departments will not require as many accountants in all fields including healthcare. In healthcare specifically, this may mean that there are less personal required in the accounting department. Instead, this means that those personal would be working to understand and interpret data. AI frees up accountants to consult and provide solutions within the their expertise rather than doing more mundane tasks and number crunching. However, in regards to the future of AI and accounting, it is impossible for AI to completely replace accountants. Accountants are needed to oversee the work performed by machines. Also, accountants are needed for understanding the information they input. This information can be used in a variety of ways, but one thing that is clear is that computers can not infer meaning. Not to mention if technology ever made a mistake it could not correct itself as easily. Human oversight is necessary. The future of accounting will certainly change but I believe AI will improve the job of accountants. It will remove the tedious tasks that accountants once needed to do and result in more accurate and efficient accounting.