(Supplied by Light AI Inc.)

By David Opinko/LethbridgeNewsNOW

Pilot project with WHL uses A.I. to test players for COVID-19

Apr 5, 2021 | 9:45 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Teams in the WHL are taking part in a pilot project for what could be a new way of testing patients for COVID-19.

Light AI Inc. CEO Peter Whitehead says they have developed a smartphone app that uses artificial intelligence to detect the virus.

“The individual takes a picture of the oral pharynx, or the back of their throat. We have been doing years of learning about what happens in the back of your throat and how it changes with viral bacterial infection, and so, the artificial intelligence is able to capture millions of data points in someone’s throat and quantify that.”

Based on their preliminary data, this method is about as accurate as RAPID antigen tests.

The main difference, he explains, is that there is no need for swabs to be used or for medical professionals to be present.

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Whitehead says it takes only around four seconds to get a result.

The WHL will serve as the guinea pigs as the majority of teams, including the Lethbridge Hurricanes, will take part in a pilot project.

To help confirm the level of accuracy in Light AI’s tests, they will be used concurrently with standard PCR tests.

“The WHL is pleased to partner with Light AI on this research project and we appreciate the cooperation we have from our players and staff in this regard,” says WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. “Our first priority continues to be the health and safety of our players, and everyone associated with the WHL, and we are hopeful this research will improve the technology in our fight to protect our WHL family and communities from COVID-19 and other illnesses.”

According to Whitehead, AI-based COVID tests could be beneficial as they are fast, cheap, and since many people already have compatible smartphones, accessible.

While Light AI is just working with the WHL for now, he believes this could have implications far beyond junior hockey.

“The WHL is the testing of a smaller population for airlines, for other sporting events, for theatres, for going back to work, getting on busses – all of these are addressable markets for ourselves,” says Whitehead. “As long as you have a smartphone and we’re producing an accurate result, we have a great solution to get back to work, go see your grandma, whatever it may be.”

For the pilot, WHL players will be tested once per week using both PCR tests and Light AI’s app.