Quantum computing harnesses the laws of quantum mechanics to solve complex problems that are can’t be solved by traditional computers, including today’s supercomputers, according to IBM. Quantum technology can consider numerous variables that interact with each other in complicated ways. In healthcare this offers the potential to advance precision medicine, drug discovery and diagnoses through complex analyses.
Earlier this year, Cleveland Clinic and IBM unveiled the world’s first quantum computer dedicated to healthcare research onsite at Cleveland Clinic’s main campus. The organization’s goal is to accelerate biomedical discovery.
“Quantum computing is a unique way of doing computing that flips traditional computational principles on their head,” says Dr. Lara Jehi, chief research information officer at Cleveland Clinic and executive lead of the organization’s partnership with IBM. She describes the jump from traditional to quantum computers as similar to advancing from fire to lightbulbs. “It accomplishes the same purpose, but the foundation is completely different.”
While quantum computing has the potential to transform healthcare research, the technology itself needs to advance before it will be a viable and accessible option for the average health system. However, Cleveland Clinic is taking some of the first steps for healthcare in quantum computing, which could provide valuable insights for the future of the technology.
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