The World Health Organization (WHO) has underscored the significance of regulating artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, emphasizing the potential challenges in a report published on Wednesday.
Highlights of WHO’s Regulatory Considerations:
- Emphasizes the necessity of ensuring the safety and effectiveness of AI tools.
- Advocates for making AI systems accessible to those in need.
- Encourages dialogue between developers and users of AI tools.
The WHO acknowledges the substantial potential of AI in healthcare, as it can enhance existing medical devices, strengthen clinical trials, refine diagnostic and treatment methods, and augment the capabilities of healthcare professionals.
However, a report by GlobalData, a data and analytics company, points out that the rapid deployment of AI technologies, while bringing benefits, also carries risks due to the limited understanding of their long-term implications, which could potentially harm healthcare professionals and patients.
Alexandra Murdoch, Senior Analyst at GlobalData, stated, “AI has already improved several devices and systems, and there are so many benefits of AI. However, there are risks too with these tools and the rapid adoption of them.”
AI systems in medical and healthcare settings frequently have access to personal and medical data, necessitating regulatory frameworks to ensure privacy and security. Other challenges associated with AI in healthcare include unethical data collection, cybersecurity risks, and the potential for amplifying biases and spreading misinformation.
A recent study conducted by Stanford University revealed biases in AI chatbots, particularly in responses that perpetuated false medical information about people of color. These instances are deeply concerning, as they could lead to misdiagnoses or improper treatment for patients of color.
In response to these challenges, the WHO has proposed six areas for the regulation of AI in healthcare. These areas include ensuring transparency and documentation, managing risks, validating data and clearly defining AI’s intended use, committing to data quality, addressing privacy and data protection, and fostering collaboration.
Alexandra Murdoch stated, “With these areas for regulation outlined, governments and regulatory bodies can follow them and hopefully develop some regulations to protect healthcare professionals and patients, and also use AI to its full potential in healthcare.”
