The ethical use of AI in medical practice

A new ethics paper from the American College of Physicians (ACP) says that while the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical practice can improve health care efficiency and quality, it must be grounded in clinical integrity and professionalism. The paper, published in Annals of Internal Medicine, outlines three guideposts for the ethical use of AI in medical practice: rationality, self-governance and competence.

AI is being rapidly adopted in health care, yet there has not been consensus on guidance for issues such as privacy, disclosure and fairness. As AI becomes more integrated into patient care, physicians and patients need practical ethical guidance to help ensure these technologies are used responsibly, equitably and in ways that support high-quality, patient-centered care.

In the paper, ACP outlines key principles for the responsible use of AI in health care, emphasizing that these tools should support the patient-physician relationship, augment clinical decision-making and medical education, and be used in ways that preserve physician judgment and promote equitable patient care. The paper also highlights the importance of ensuring AI is implemented responsibly across health care settings.

As AI becomes increasingly integrated into health care, ACP encourages physicians to leverage its potential to improve patient outcomes while ensuring its use remains grounded in ethical principles and professional responsibility. ACP says thoughtful AI implementation can help advance patient care, strengthen clinical decision-making and preserve the central role of the patient-physician relationship.

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Sadie Harley

BSc Life Sciences & Ecology. Microbiology lab background with pharmaceutical news experience in oil, gas, and renewable industries.

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Andrew Zinin

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