Bon Secours – Richmond is proud to announce the launch of "Catherine" – an innovative, conversational AI-powered digital assistant aimed at transforming how patients access information and resources when they have orthopedic related pain. This cutting-edge platform facilitates empathetic AI-powered conversations that simplify the process of finding the right orthopedic care at the right time. Catherine is user-friendly, helping patients quickly navigate their symptoms such as hip, knee, shoulder, back/spine, foot/ankle, and arm/elbow pain, while connecting them to trusted local resources.
At Bon Secours, the concept of accompaniment – walking alongside patients with empathy, compassion, and presence – has long been a cornerstone of care. By integrating this enduring principle into the digital age, Bon Secours aims to enhance patient experiences through technology. Through a partnership between Accrete Health Partners, BSMH’s digital innovation company, and Brado, the tech development experts, the platform was designed specifically for your orthopedic needs.
"As an orthopedic surgeon, I see how overwhelming it can be for patients to understand their musculoskeletal concerns," said Jacob Budny, DO, orthopedic surgeon with Bon Secours – Orthopedics. "Catherine gives patients reliable, evidence-based guidance outside of clinic visits that can help them take the next step toward the right care with confidence."
What distinguishes Catherine from other mass AI models is its foundation, built upon data points created by Bon Secours physicians, ensuring patients receive reliable and relevant information. Unlike mass AI models, which may deliver incorrect information, Catherine uses human-centered design to provide high-quality, accurate insights for users from trusted medical professionals to help them with questions about common orthopedic pain, how to manage it, and what treatment options are available.
Mark Townsend, MD, MHCM, and Chief Clinical Digital Ventures Officer at Bon Secours Mercy Health (BSMH) and Accrete Health Partners, noted that “conversational AI represents the modern era of patient engagement, offering a solution that goes beyond what patients can currently find in Google searches or on social media.”
Bon Secours is the first health care system in the nation to launch an AI product of this nature, highlighting its commitment to innovation and excellence in patient care. The introduction of Catherine aligns with the ministry’s commitment to improving care delivery and assisting communities in navigating their health care options, thereby enhancing access to appropriate medical care. The platform is named in honor of the founder of the Sisters of Bon Secours, reflecting the organization's deep-rooted commitment to compassionate care.
Community members can easily access Catherine for more information and support in their health care journey.