Plano, Texas Patent of the Year – 2024/2025

MedCognetics Inc. has been awarded the 2024/2025 Patent of the Year for its pioneering work in equitable medical imaging. Their invention, detailed in U.S. Patent No. 11948297, titled ‘Racially unbiased deep learning-based mammogram analyzer’, introduces an AI-driven system designed to detect breast cancer accurately across diverse populations by minimizing racial bias in diagnostic outcomes.

Traditional AI models in medical imaging often reflect biases present in their training data, potentially leading to disparities in diagnosis. MedCognetics’ patented system addresses this by employing a convolutional neural network (CNN) architecture trained on a diverse dataset encompassing multiple ethnicities. The model includes specialized layers that adapt to specific racial groups, enhancing diagnostic accuracy across different populations.

The system utilizes a combination of federated and active learning techniques. Initial layers of the CNN are trained on a broad dataset representing various ethnicities, while subsequent layers are fine-tuned using data from specific racial groups. This hierarchical training approach allows the model to generalize across populations while also capturing unique features pertinent to individual groups.

By integrating this technology into clinical workflows, healthcare providers can offer more equitable diagnostic services. The AI system’s ability to adjust its analysis based on diverse data inputs ensures that patients receive accurate assessments regardless of their racial background, thereby promoting inclusivity in healthcare diagnostics.

MedCognetics’ innovation marks a significant advancement in the pursuit of unbiased AI applications in medicine, setting a new standard for fairness and accuracy in diagnostic tools.